Transforming Lives: Learners at AU
Laurie Thompson: Indigenous educational leader
Transforming Lives: Learners at AU is a testimonial series written by Athabasca University (AU) learners and alumni who want to share how AU has helped shape their lives.
I am one carrier of a dream for our Metis Settlements of Alberta community called Kikino.
It’s a dream for a future when our Metis Settlements of Alberta children’s voices are heard. Our young people have opportunity bounded in lifelong learning, and where our Elders are valued and upheld as recognized educators in our schools.
As a carrier of this dream, it was imperative that I attain the highest degrees possible to lift that voice higher and higher, louder and louder. My journey began by completing elementary, middle, and high school. It continued with post-secondary and a bachelor of education followed by a masters of arts in leadership.
“As a carrier of this dream, it was imperative that I attain the highest degrees possible to lift that voice higher and higher, louder, and louder.”
– Laurie Thompson, Doctor of Education in Distance Education student
Athabasca University (AU) made the impossible possible for me. I could see the degree, but I could not see the path. AU provided a path through the Doctor of Education in Distance Education program. AU beckoned me to this path.
I got myself started while maintaining my full-time principalship and providing for my family. AU has helped me stay focused with access to support bursaries and amazing transformative staff willing to open their hearts in shared respect for me as a Metis woman in leadership trying to traverse two paradigms and keeping my eye on what ultimately matters: learning.
It is through learning that I enable the voice of each child to continue into youth, young adulthood, adulthood, onto Elder. No longer will our voice be cut off. Because of AU, I matter and holding a doctorate will empower me to have a lasting impact on lives weaved into my Metis sash.
