Yvonne Pierreroy, who was born born on the traditional territory of the Nak’azdli Whut’en near Fort St. James, will receive an honorary Doctor of Laws degree from the University of Northern British Columbia (UNBC) at the Prince George campus on May 30.
A Dakelh knowledge holder and cultural leader, Pierreroy is a foundational figure in the history the the school, according to a statement released by UNBC last month.
"She has has spent her adult life committed to the preservation, revitalization and celebration of Dakelh language, history and culture. As a founding member of UNBC, Pierreroy’s longstanding dedication to sharing her knowledge has helped shape the University as a place where Indigenous voices are heard, amplified and empowered," the release said.
Pierreroy was instrumental in liaising with the university and the Nak’azdli Whut’en Band Council to launch the Dakelh Language Certification Program in Fort St. James in 2006, according to the university. The program has since served as a template for similar partnerships with other communities.
Pierreroy spent her childhood with her parents and 11 siblings, learning traditional Dakelh ways. She was raised speaking Dakelh ghuni and remains fluent in the endangered language.
“The knowledge I carry comes from my parents; they were my teachers,” said Pierreroy in the statement.
“I’ve always believed in the importance of sharing what I know with those who want to learn, so that Dakelh language and culture will continue into the future.”
Building on this, Pierreroy spent decades contributing to the creation of numerous Dakelh language and cultural resources.
She has also collaborated with others to preserve and transmit the language through books, recordings, digital tools and online platforms as a member of the Carrier Linguistic Society, and has taught the language extensively through courses she helped to develop at UNBC and online.
Across northern B.C., Pierreroy is known for her handcrafted creations, such as clan vests, wedding mukluks and button blankets.
“Teaching others how to bead or make moccasins is about more than crafting, it’s about connecting to culture in a hands-on way,” said Pierreroy. “Every stitch holds meaning and when I share those skills, it’s another way to pass on knowledge in a meaningful way.”
As one of the initial employees of UNBC, she participated in the early hiring process for incoming faculty and administration.
Over the course of her 17-year career, she worked out of the Provost’s Office, managed the First Nations Centre in an interim role and worked closely with a range of academic departments and programs.
According to the release, it was during her days as an employee that Pierreroy also enroled as a student in the first Carrier language course to be offered at UNBC. She later became a co-instructor.
Collaborative efforts with UNBC Associate Professor Agnieszka Pawlowska-Mainville resulted in the publication of an interactive book, the Nak’azdli Medical Pocket Phrasebook, to support medical practitioners and students in northern B.C. in treating Dakelh patients. Additionally, a co-designed course saw students engage in the traditional practice of moose-hide tanning to explore cultural heritage through experiential learning.
"By openly sharing her knowledge through her artistry, teachings, mentorship and guidance, Pierreroy’s tireless efforts in Dakelh language and cultural revitalization have had a profound impact on students, faculty, colleagues and community members across the region," UNBC said in the statement.
In reflecting on her life’s work in the release, she acknowledged the role of her family in helping her carry this legacy forward.
“I’ve never done this work alone,” says Pierreroy. “My 97-year-old mother Mildred Martin has always been beside me, as was my late father Frank – passing on knowledge and guiding me. My husband Ron has supported and worked with me every step of the way. We’ve always worked in tandem, and I’m grateful for their strength, love and commitment to our culture.”
Pierreroy will be awarded the honorary degree during the morning ceremony celebrating the Class of 2025 at Convocation at UNBC’s Prince George campus on May 30.
