The Verna J. Kirkness Education Foundation addresses the under-representation of First Nations, Métis, and Inuit students at Canadian universities. One of the factors contributing to this is the lack of academic role models for Indigenous students.

The Verna J. Kirkness Education Foundation Program develops motivated role models who foster the importance of graduating from high school and obtaining a postsecondary education. Our Foundation addresses this by offering scholarships to Indigenous students in grades 11 and 12 to spend a week at a Canadian university, interacting with scientists in their research laboratories. During the week of instruction on campus, students have the opportunity to meet role models, learn about the support systems available on campus and experience the excitement of doing research.

**Last updated January 2024 (description taken from the program’s website)