Support Team

Picture of Chelsea Harris-CarrChelsea Harris-Carr
Lentukwisk

Future Wabanaki Coordinator
charriscarr@stu.ca

 

Chelsea is Mi’kmaw and grew up in a military family in Oromocto. She is a Matthews with roots in Trout River, Newfoundland. She holds a diploma in Aircraft Maintenance Technology from Algonquin College, a Bachelor of Integrated Studies, and a Bachelor of Education at the University of New Brunswick.

 

In her current role, Chelsea supports Indigenous students in finding meaningful experiential learning opportunities and work placements. She also helps develop cultural learning activities for students, faculty, staff, and the broader STU community.

 

“I am committed to creating a space where Indigenous students feel safe, supported, and heard. Through this role, I have the privilege of helping students access valuable internships and community experiences, while also sharing the rich Wabanaki culture.”

 

Picture of Robbie AtwinRobbie Atwin 

Indigenous Student Services Coordinator

ratwin@stu.ca

 

Robbie Atwin is Wolastoqiyi from Welamukotuk First Nation (Oromocto). Robbie graduated from UNB with a Bachelor of Arts in History and a minor in Psychology. He works to show indigenous students at STU the resources they have at their disposal.  

 

 

“My goal is to give indigenous students the support that they deserve and helping them see the potential that they all have. The Wabankaki Cenre is a space with a dedicated team working to provide a keen sense of community and support system.”

 

Sonja PerleySonja Perley

Nikanahtpat/Director – Indigenous Initiatives  

sperley@stu.ca 

 

Sonja Perley oversees Indigenous student support services, including the Wabanaki CentreIndigenous Experiential Learning, and campus programming. Responsibilities include contributing to the Senate Committee on Reconciliation, supporting the Elder-in-Residence, and Indigenous Experiential Learning Coordinator. Sonja earned a Bachelor of Arts and Bachelor of Social Work from STU, and a Masters in Education from UNB.

 

“Our goal is to create a warm and welcoming space for Indigenous students, envisioning it as a home away from home, and building on existing supports.”

 

Graydon Nicholas


Chancellor of St. Thomas University and Endowed Chair in Native Studies 

graydon@stu.ca 

The Hon. Graydon Nicholas, Order of New Brunswick, was the 30th Lieutenant Governor of NB (2009-2014) and the first Indigenous person to hold this office. He is Chancellor of St. Thomas University and the Endowed Chair in Native Studies at STU. 

 

 

Bailey SappierBailey Sappier 

Indigenous Student Services Coordinator

bsappier@stu.ca

 

(On leave)

 

Bailey is a Wolastoqey/ Peskotomuhkati/ Acadian woman from unceded and unsurrendered Wolastoqey territory in Fredericton, NB. Her Community ties are in Tobique First Nation (NB), Indian Township (Maine) and Campbellton (NB). Bailey Graduated from STU earning a Bachelor of Arts Degree with Honours in Native Studies and a Certificate in Experiential Learning and Community Engagement. Prior to being in this position, Bailey worked as a Project Officer for the Indigenous Support and Awareness Office with Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada. 

 

"I am passionate about offering support, guidance, and tailored programming to elevate the experiences of Indigenous students and empower their academic achievements."