Celebrating Graduates of Master of Education Leadership

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

IQALUIT, NU (May 31, 2013) - Twelve Inuit education leaders from Nunavut and one from Nunavik will graduate with a Master of Education Leadership degree from the University of Prince Edward Island (UPEI) at a special convocation in Iqaluit tomorrow.

'Today is a wonderful day for education in our territory,' said Minister of Education, Premier Eva Aariak. 'I am so very proud of these graduates for all their efforts and inspirational achievement. Their success is proof that determination and passion can lead to incredible accomplishment.'

The past and present graduates of this program make an important contribution to Nunavut, ensuring that Inuit leadership remains a pillar of our education system.

"On behalf of the University of Prince Edward Island, I congratulate our second cohort of Master of Education graduates in Nunavut," said UPEI President and Vice-Chancellor Alaa Abd-El-Aziz. "We are so proud to now introduce a second group of graduates who will positively contribute to Nunavut and its communities through their academic success."

At the convocation ceremony, two respected Elders will be presented with honourary UPEI degrees. Donald Uluadluak is a highly regarded knowledge-keeper who has shared his wisdom in a gentle and generous way for many years. His knowledge has informed the Nunavut Master of Education program and helped the graduates to deepen their understanding and knowledge of Inuit Qaujimajatuqangit. Rhoda Karetak is an outstanding Inuit community leader and Elder, who is an expert in Inuit knowledge, culture and language. She is a cultural advocate, linguist, educator, counselor and lay minister with an intense passion for teaching and passing on skills.

This year's graduates are: Vera Arnatsiaq from Igloolik, Mary Etuangat from Pangnirtung, Lizzie Aumaik Iblauk and Saimanaaq (Pat) Netser from Arviat, Rhoda Cunningham, Louise Flaherty and Susan Tigullaraq from Iqaluit, Bertha Iglookyouak, Eva Qirniq Noah and Becky Tootoo from Baker Lake, Adriana Kusugak and Maggie Putulik from Rankin Inlet, and Mary-Joanne Kauki from Kuujjuaq.

Catriona Macleod

Manager of Communications

Department of Education

867-975-5624

Nicole Phillips

Integrated Communications

University of Prince Edward Island

902-566-0947

nphillips@upei.ca