Support Team
Chelsea Harris-Carr
Lentukwisk
Future Wabanaki Coordinator
charris@stu.ca
Chelsea is Mi’kmaw, Wolastoqiyik and Celtic. She grew up in a military family with roots in Trout River, Newfoundland. She holds a diploma as an Aircraft Maintenance Technician from Algonquin College, a Bachelor of Integrated Studies, and is completing a Bachelor of Education from the University of New Brunswick.
In her role, Chelsea aids Indigenous students find meaningful experiential learning opportunities and work placements. She helps create cultural experiential learning activities for students, faculty, staff, and the STU community at large.
“I hope to create a space where Indigenous students feel safe, supported, and heard. Through this position I have the honour of helping Indigenous students find meaningful internships, community experiences, and sharing our beautiful Wabanaki culture.”
Robbie Atwin
Indigenous Student Services Coordinator
Robbie Atwin is Wolastoqiyi from Welamukotuk First Nation (Oromocto). Robbie graduated from UNB with a Bachelor of Arts in History and a minor in Psychology. He works to show indigenous students at STU the resources they have at their disposal.
“My goal is to give indigenous students the support that they deserve and helping them see the potential that they all have. The Wabankaki Cenre is a space with a dedicated team working to provide a keen sense of community and support system.”
Sonja Perley
Nikanahtpat/Director – Indigenous Initiatives
Sonja Perley oversees Indigenous student support services, including the Wabanaki Centre, Indigenous Experiential Learning, and campus programming. Responsibilities include contributing to the Senate Committee on Reconciliation, supporting the Student Reconciliation Committee, Elder-in-Residence, and Indigenous Experiential Learning Coordinator. Sonja earned a Bachelor of Arts and Bachelor of Social Work from STU, and a Masters in Education from UNB.
“Our goal is to create a warm and welcoming space for Indigenous students, envisioning it as a home away from home, and building on existing supports.”
Graydon Nicholas
Chancellor of St. Thomas University and Endowed Chair in Native Studies
The Hon. Graydon Nicholas, Order of New Brunswick, was the 30th Lieutenant Governor of NB (2009-2014) and the first Indigenous person to hold this office. He is Chancellor of St. Thomas University and the Endowed Chair in Native Studies at STU.
Bailey Sappier
Indigenous Student Services Coordinator
(On leave)
Bailey is a Wolastoqey/ Peskotomuhkati/ Acadian woman from unceded and unsurrendered Wolastoqey territory in Fredericton, NB. Her Community ties are in Tobique First Nation (NB), Indian Township (Maine) and Campbellton (NB). Bailey Graduated from STU earning a Bachelor of Arts Degree with Honours in Native Studies and a Certificate in Experiential Learning and Community Engagement. Prior to being in this position, Bailey worked as a Project Officer for the Indigenous Support and Awareness Office with Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada.
"I am passionate about offering support, guidance, and tailored programming to elevate the experiences of Indigenous students and empower their academic achievements."