Aboriginal Relations

Welcome to Royal Roads University

Congratulations on your decision to continue with your education. I hope your time with us will be not only challenging, but exciting.

In the course of my work as Aboriginal Relations Co-coordinator I have been thinking about the advice given by many old people within the immediate region.

At public gatherings during the sixties and seventies old people and elders throughout the territory spoke to young people and their parents. They called on young people to “Make their minds strong, and to use the best of both worlds.”

You might ask what does that mean?

After a century and half of changes to our communities the old people have voiced their wish that we learn as much as we can about our own rich traditions as well as to use the best of what the newcomers to our territories can teach us.

Our traditions, reflected in songs, ceremonies, and teachings are as old as time itself. In fact, they are at least 15 generations old.

These activities identify many of the ways the old people and our ancestors have asked us to move together, to help one another, and to live our lives in a health way. 

Greg Sam, Lux Lax u Luk,

Tsartlip elder and RRU Aboriginal Relations Coordinator
The Office of Research
250-391-2600, ext. 4394
1-800-788-8028
E-mail Greg Sam


The office of Aboriginal Relations promotes awareness and appreciation of First Nations culture. The Aboriginal Relations Coordinator assists with community programming, event planning, promoting cultural awareness, development of RRU policy, and student advocacy.

It is also the mandate of the Aboriginal Relations Coordinator to develop and strengthen relationships between RRU and First Nations communities and to engage in the sharing of knowledge with other post-secondary institutions.

 Services to Aboriginal students include:

  • information about programs, services, and events
  • assistance and information about financial aid
  • liaison with Aboriginal communities, local organizations, other post-secondary institutes and government agencies
  • advocacy for Aboriginal student issues
  • referrals to community agencies for personal support