Aanii, Boozhoo, Koolamalsi, Shekoli, Shekon, Tansi

The Office of Indigenous Initiatives

The Assistant Vice President of Indigenous Initiatives is responsible for amplifying Indigenous voices, advancing Indigenous scholarship, and promoting the inclusion of Indigenous knowledges and languages within all aspects of university life. Our commitments include creating opportunities for meaningful engagement, supporting Indigenous students, staff, and faculty, raising awareness of Indigenous presence, acknowledging and responding to the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s Calls to Action and cultivating respectful relationships with Indigenous peoples both on and off campus.

Indigenous Initiatives Team

Assistant Vice President Indigenous Initiatives

Audrey Rochette

Audrey Rochette is Anishinaabe from Waabadowgang-Whitesand First Nation and the daughter of a residential school survivor.

She was the Associate Vice President Indigenous Engagement & Education External at Sheridan College; the Director, Indigenous Initiatives, at George Brown College and currently sits on several committees in different sectors committed to reconciliation work.

Audrey’s passion for Indigenous relations was cultivated in her work with Indspire and imagineNATIVE, the largest Indigenous film festival in the world.

Audrey holds of Bachelor of Arts (Honours), and a Master of Arts both from the University of Toronto.

avpii@yorku.ca

Indigenous Special Advisor, Indigenous Initiatives

Victoria Francavilla

Victoria is Indigenous Special Advisor in the Office of Indigenous Initiatives at York University, where she supports Indigenous engagement and equitable institutional change.

A York alumna currently pursuing an MEd at the University of Toronto (OISE), her work focuses on the indigenization of education and supporting Indigenous students and educators.

With experience across post-secondary, non-profit, and advocacy sectors, Victoria brings a thoughtful, people-centred approach grounded in equity, care, and community.

vcfranca@yorku.ca

Featured Sites

Indigenous Framework Review

York's Indigenous Framework Review evaluates progress, identifies challenges, and proposes actions to enhance Indigenous community engagement, aligning with York's values, Academic Plan, and sustainability goals.

National Day for Truth & Reconciliation

Marking four years since its establishment, this day prompts reflection on honoring Calls to Action, fostering learning, sharing knowledge, and driving meaningful change.

National Indigenous History Month

June celebrates Indigenous peoples’ histories, cultures, and contributions. Engage with stories, events, and learning opportunities while honoring First Nations, Métis, and Inuit communities.

Indigenous Education Council

The Office of Indigenous Initiatives has re-established the Indigenous Education Council at York University in alignment with provincial requirements and institutional commitments to Truth and Reconciliation, the TRC Calls to Action, and decolonization.