Brian Nadjiwon Scholarship

Kwantlen Polytechnic University’s Department of Geography and the Environment is proud to support the creation of a new scholarship initiative for Indigenous students studying geoscience in BC post-secondary institutions! This scholarship is created in memory of Brian Nadjiwon, a father, brother, KPU student, and Chippewas of Nawash First Nations member. Brian was a valuable part of the KPU community, he is sorely missed, and we hope that this scholarship will commemorate his remarkable life, open doors to other Indigenous students, and bring Indigenous perspectives and knowledge into geoscience.

This scholarship initiative has been created by Brian’s friends and family and by faculty members in KPU’s Geography department. The scholarship has been formally adopted and is now administered by Engineers and Geoscientists of British Columbia Foundation (EGBCF), a registered charity. This scholarship will be administered as an endowment-based scholarship by EGBCF, and will be awarded annually in perpetuity.

Who is this scholarship for?

This scholarship is for Indigenous (Métis, Inuit, or First Nations) students enrolled in or planning to enroll in a geoscience program in BC.

Why is this scholarship needed?

This scholarship is firstly designed to commemorate Brian and his passion for the geologic processes of North America. However, it also serves the larger purpose of increasing representation of Indigenous people in the geosciences. This is important because Indigenous people are underrepresented in the geoscience and natural resource workforce, despite the fact that geoscience-related sectors operate in frequently unceded Indigenous lands. Additionally, Indigenous people are increasingly taking control over their own resources and land management, and decolonizing western science and braiding it with traditional knowledge. Supporting Indigenous students studying geoscience will have widespread tangible and intangible benefits for both Indigenous communities as well as the geosciences.

How can I help?

Donate now to contribute to this specific scholarship fund!