The University of Lethbridge Board of Governors approved a recommendation from the First Nations, Métis and Inuit Alumni Chapter that the Student Lounge in the area of Native American Studies (NAS) be dedicated in honour of the late Narcisse Blood.
In addition to the many activities associated with the annual Native Awareness Week, the U of L paused to recognize the incredible contributions of Narcisse Blood to the University. In a small ceremony Thursday organized by the FNMI Chapter, it was announced the Student Lounge in the NAS area would be named Tatsikiistamik (Middle Bull) in honour of Blood. A dedication in the Student Lounge is being planned for a later date.
As the Elder to the First Nations, Métis and Inuit Chapter of the Alumni Association, prominent Blackfoot filmmaker and former sessional instructor, Blood was highly respected throughout the University community. He was a true teacher, showing compassion, curiosity and creativity. He taught at Red Crow College and the U of L, and lectured at universities across Canada, the United States and the United Kingdom. Blood worked closely with the U of L Faculty of Education to develop courses that led to a better understanding of Blackfoot culture. His contributions to the University have been described as significant and enduring.
“Narcisse left a very big imprint here at the University, both as a student and then he worked and jointly taught with faculty members here. He impressed people with his knowledge and humour; Narcisse was a little bit bigger than life,” says Dr. Leroy Little Bear, (BASc ’72, DASc ’04), First Nations, Métis and Inuit advisor to the U of L president. “This is a way to honour him and to remind people of the work he did and to see him as a role model so that people will continue the work he was doing.”