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Gift from Métis Nation of Ontario to establish York University fellowship in Métis Studies

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Gift from Métis Nation of Ontario to establish York University fellowship in Métis Studies

The gift of $749,500 will support doctoral students engaged in research into Métis life and history

A gift of $749,500 from the Métis Nation of Ontario (MNO) will enable the establishment of a new doctoral fellowship in Métis Studies at York University. The Métis Nation of Ontario Doctoral Fellowship, located within York’s Faculty of Liberal Arts & Professional Studies, will be the only graduate fellowship in Métis studies in Ontario.

“York University is deeply grateful to the Métis Nation of Ontario for their generous gift,” says York University President and Vice-Chancellor Rhonda Lenton. “Partnerships such as this one enable critically important research here at York, a research-intensive University that is committed to enhancing the well-being of the communities we serve.”

The fellowship will serve as a pathway for Métis scholars to pursue new research and will encourage the expansion of academic literature on Métis history, culture, and way of life. Projects proposed for the fellowship must incorporate principles of Métis research which include reciprocity (i.e. how does this research give back to Métis communities), respect, and recognition of the unique Métis context. By supporting research related to Métis history, identity, culture, rights, and interests, the fellowship will help ensure that Métis voices and perspectives shape academic discourse for years to come.

“This fellowship marks an important milestone in our ongoing efforts to foster Métis-led research and scholarship,” says Margaret Froh, President of the Métis Nation of Ontario. “Through this partnership, we are ensuring that the voices, stories, and histories of Métis people are not only told but are studied and celebrated at the highest levels of academia.”

The rate of postsecondary attainment among Métis people has increased over the years; nevertheless, it continues to lag behind non-Indigenous populations. Closing this gap requires more high-level Indigenous scholars. This fellowship will provide opportunities to enhance Métis representation in academic research, inspiring future Métis students to pursue graduate level studies that will deepen their cultural knowledge.

“York University has historically served one of the most diverse student bodies of any post-secondary institution in Canada,” says JJ McMurtry, Dean of the Faculty of Liberal Arts & Professional Studies. “With more than 350 Indigenous learners at the University, and over 3,000 Métis citizens in Toronto alone, York is uniquely positioned to serve Métis people who today live within the Greater Toronto Area.”

The fellowship will support a doctoral candidate for a minimum of three years and $20,000 per year. The first fellowship could be awarded as early as Fall 2025, pending eligible applicants.

York University is a modern, multi-campus, urban university located in Toronto, Ontario. Backed by a diverse group of students, faculty, staff, alumni and partners, we bring a uniquely global perspective to help solve societal challenges, drive positive change, and prepare our students for success. York's fully bilingual Glendon Campus is home to Southern Ontario's Centre of Excellence for French Language and Bilingual Postsecondary Education. York’s campuses in Costa Rica and India offer students exceptional transnational learning opportunities and innovative programs. Together, we can make things right for our communities, our planet, and our future.

The Métis Nation of Ontario is the recognized Métis government for Métis citizens and communities in Ontario. Through a province wide-governance structure, the MNO works to advance the rights, culture, and well-being of Métis people in Ontario.