Kyé7e (Grandmother) Jean Sandy William of T’exelcemc (Williams Lake) First Nation is being recognized for her dedication to her community with an honorary degree from Thompson Rivers University (TRU).
As a fluent speaker and educator of Secwepemctsín, William has been instrumental in the preservation and revitalization of the Secwépemc (Shuswap) Nation's language and culture.
“She is one of the most influential language speakers and knowledge keepers in the entire Secwepemc Nation," said Willie Sellars, Chief of T’exelcemc First Nation.
“We will be forever grateful for her contributions.”
An Indigenous knowledge keeper, practical nurse, educator and cultural advisor, William has created safe spaces for residential school survivors to share their experiences and has contributed to research on Indigenous well-being. William has taught and mentored in both school and university settings, including at TRU.
She will be awarded a Doctor of Letters at the June 5 convocation at the Tournament Capital Centre in Kamloops.
Along with William, Fiona Chan, Findlay (Frank) Quinn and Terry Lake will be receiving honorary degrees for their impact on education and well-being.
Honorary degrees are the highest form of recognition the university offers, and are awarded for excellence in public affairs, sciences, arts, humanities, business, law and philanthropy.
