Evelyn Dilworth (BA ’24, BEd ’24), now working as Event Coordinator at the Hadiya’dagénhahs First Nations, Métis and Inuit Student Centre, is helping create stronger connections, support systems, and cultural programs for Indigenous students at Brock University.

This story is part of a series that celebrates students, staff, faculty, and alumni who are recognized as EDI Changemakers — people who are committed to advancing equity, diversity, and inclusion (EDI) on campus and in the community.

Leading Change for Indigenous Students

Although much of Evelyn’s work takes place behind the scenes, her impact can be seen across the university. For example, she has played a key role in:

• Developing the Indigenous Plus Program

• Organizing Indigenous People’s Awareness Week

• Planning events for the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation

Because of these efforts, Brock’s Office of Human Rights and Equity recognized her as an EDI Changemaker, an honor that highlights her work in uplifting Indigenous voices.

Building Cultural Spaces at Brock University

As more students self-identify as Indigenous at Brock, Evelyn is focused on connecting them with the Centre’s cultural programs and supports.

“Everything we do at Hadiya’dagénhahs, we do as a team,” she explains. “It is an honor to help create a safe, inclusive space where students can meet, learn, and feel proud of their identity while studying at a large institution.”

In addition, Cindy Biancaniello, Director of the Centre, praised her work, saying:
“Her contribution to the Indigenous Plus Program has already made a lasting impact. We are very proud to now have her as part of our team.”

Restoring Pride in Indigenous Identity

Evelyn, who is of Mohawk and Irish descent and connected to Tyendinaga and Six Nations, believes that cultural supports are essential for student success.

She explains, “For many years, Indigenous pride was taken away by systemic policies. However, at Brock, we now have the chance to restore that pride and give students positive cultural experiences. We also invite youth from local communities, showing them that higher education can be a place of both culture and opportunity.”

Embedding Indigenous Knowledge in Education

Evelyn’s work also goes beyond the university. As a Master of Education student and graduate of Brock’s Concurrent Teacher Education program, she focuses on curriculum development and policy that integrate Indigenous knowledge into classrooms.

In addition, she highlights several key priorities:

• Holistic education — supporting mental, physical, and emotional health so students can learn effectively

• Hands-on experiences rooted in Indigenous teaching methods

• Trauma-informed teaching that gives educators the confidence to discuss sensitive topics in respectful ways

She also reminds educators that lessons should not only cover the history of Indigenous peoples in Canada, but also their ongoing contributions and cultural achievements.

“When people hear the word Indigenous, they often think only of tragedy,” Evelyn says. “Yet our culture is also about survival, creativity, and success. Therefore, we must also share the positive stories.”