Elder, Indigenous Field of Study (IFS) Program - Social Work (Full Time Limited Term Appointment)

Wilfrid Laurier University; Kitchener; On-site; CAD 60,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

An established educational institution is seeking a dedicated Elder for a full-time limited-term appointment. This role involves teaching graduate-level courses and providing cultural support within the Indigenous Field of Study. Candidates should possess a strong foundation in Indigenous wholistic knowledge and experience facilitating ceremonies. The position emphasizes decolonizing practices and aims to enhance the educational experience for students. If you are passionate about Indigenous pedagogy and community engagement, this opportunity is perfect for you.

Qualifications

• Graduate degree required, preferably in Indigenous Studies.
• Extensive experience in facilitating Indigenous ceremonies.

Responsibilities

• Teaching two graduate-level courses per year in the IFS program.
• Contributing to ceremonies and providing cultural support to students.

Skills

Indigenous wholistic knowledge

Facilitating Indigenous ceremonies

Advanced wholistic healing practices

Decolonizing practice lens

Land-based teaching

Experience with online platforms (e.g., Zoom)

Education

Graduate degree in social work

Degree in Indigenous Studies

Job description

Faculty/Academic Area: Faculty of Social Work

Department: N/A

Campus: Kitchener

Employee Group: WLUFA

Requisition ID: 9274

Wilfrid Laurier University - Faculty of Social Work

Position: Full-time Elder Limited Term Appointment
Location: Kitchener
Duration: July 1, 2025 – June 30, 2026

The Indigenous Field of Study (IFS) in the Faculty of Social Work at Wilfrid Laurier University’s Kitchener campus invites applications for a full-time Elder Limited Term Appointment (LTA) faculty position, commencing on July 1, 2025, and ending June 30, 2026, subject to budget approval. The position involves teaching two graduate-level courses per academic year (Fall and Spring) as part of the IFS program. Responsibilities include contributing to the IFS program through ceremonies, student evaluations, team meetings, admissions, convocations, and events. The Elder will assist with Culture Camp and lead ceremonies, providing cultural support to students and faculty. There is no research or scholarship expectation for this role.

The FSW is located on the traditional territories of the Neutral, Anishnaabe, and Haudenosaunee peoples. We aim to decolonize social work practice and education, and the candidate is expected to contribute to this effort.

The FSW offers undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral programs in social work, emphasizing research, critical thinking, and innovative teaching strategies. The IFS in the MSW program emphasizes Indigenous-based learning, and our graduates work toward social justice and well-being.

We seek a colleague rooted in Indigenous wholistic knowledge, worldviews, and practices, preferably a First Métis or Inuit with relevant experience and engagement in Indigenous ceremonies and healing practices. Candidates with a background in Indigenous Studies or similar fields are encouraged to apply. The role offers engagement with the Centre for Indigegogy: Centre for Indigegogy.

Additional information about the IFS and courses can be found at: https://www.wlu.ca/programs/social-work/graduate/social-work-msw/indigenous-field-of-study/index.html and Course Offerings.

Qualifications:

• Graduate degree, including at least one in social work; preference for degrees rooted in Indigenous Studies.
• Extensive experience facilitating Indigenous ceremonies (e.g., sweat lodge, fasting ceremonies).
• Advanced wholistic healing practices and experience working with Indigenous communities.
• Decolonizing practice lens and understanding of Indigenous social work.
• Experience with land-based teaching and online platforms (e.g., Zoom).
• Experience with the IFS MSW program is an asset.

Application materials:

• Letter of application highlighting relevant accomplishments and strengths.
• Curriculum vitae.
• Contact information for two referees.
• 1–2 page statement on teaching approaches and Indigenous ceremonies facilitation.
• 1 page on Indigenous pedagogy and how Indigeneity informs teaching.

Applications are due by 11:59 pm (EST), June 2, 2025, via email to [e-mail] with the subject line: IFS LTA.

Wilfrid Laurier University values diversity, equity, and inclusion. Candidates are required to submit documentation of Indigenous identity or a self-declaration as part of the Indigenous Identity Verification process, with details available at: Indigenous Identity Verification. Shortlisted candidates will be asked to confirm Indigenous identity before an interview.

We encourage applications from all qualified candidates, including those from diverse and equity-deserving groups. For more information, contact the Office of Indigenous Initiatives at [e-mail] or Equity and Accessibility at [e-mail].

Applicants must indicate their Canadian citizenship or permanent resident status in their cover letter, choosing either:

• “Yes, I am a current citizen or permanent resident of Canada.”
• “No, I am not a current citizen or permanent resident of Canada.”

Self-identification for employment equity is encouraged and can be confidentially submitted to [e-mail]. More information on employment equity policies is available at: Employment Equity.

Wilfrid Laurier University is committed to accessibility and will assist applicants as needed. For alternative formats or application assistance, contact Human Resources via careers.wlu.ca.

For more information about this opportunity and to apply online, visit www.wlu.ca/careers.