JIBC welcomes new Director, Office of Indigenization

March 14, 2019

Jason La Rochelle to lead initiatives set out in JIBC Indigenization Plan, including programs and services for Indigenous students

The Justice Institute of British Columbia (JIBC) is pleased to announce Jason La Rochelle as the new Director of the Office of Indigenization.

“It is our great pleasure to have Mr. La Rochelle join JIBC bringing his extensive experience in Indigenous education,” said Dr. Michel Tarko, JIBC President and CEO. “We look forward to the benefit of his leadership in supporting JIBC’s Indigenization Plan, from the education and training needs of Indigenous students to fostering understanding between the Indigenous and broader communities.”

La Rochelle has worked in the field of Indigenous education for the past 20 years. His previous posts were at the Native Education College (NEC) where he served as an instructor, program coordinator, program manager and, most recently, Dean of Academics.

He is looking forward to continuing the initiatives laid out in the current JIBC Indigenization Plan. This guiding document has set out the course for the Institute’s continued strengthening of its commitment to understanding the historical, social and economic conditions of Indigenous populations. It also fosters respect and understanding of the cultures, traditions, languages and protocols of Indigenous Peoples. Various initiatives and activities have been launched over the years to realize the plan’s overarching objectives, which include ensuring relevant and culturally appropriate education and services are available for Indigenous learners.

La Rochelle stressed the importance of institutional responses to the Truth & Reconciliation (TRC) Calls to Action and to the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples (UNDRIP). In this role, he plans to help JIBC continue to progress around a multitude of Indigenous initiatives.

“As Director of the Office of Indigenization, I look forward to supporting and engaging with students, staff, faculty and community,” said La Rochelle. “My varied experience in different roles will inform and help me guide Indigenization initiatives at JIBC. My goal is to be a change agent. Indigenization is an evolving process with the potential for significant impact within the Institute.”

La Rochelle is Haida, from Old Massett, Haida Gwaii. His traditional name, given to him by Stó:lō Elders, is Skeweqsalalexw, meaning “of the Raven” in Halq’emeylem. He earned a master of arts in counselling psychology from the University of British Columbia.

About Justice Institute of British Columbia

Justice Institute of British Columbia (JIBC) is Canada’s leading public safety educator with a mission to develop dynamic justice and public safety professionals through its exceptional applied education, training and research. JIBC offers internationally recognized education that leads to certificates, diplomas, bachelor’s degrees and graduate certificates; exceptional continuing education for work and career-related learning and development; and customized contract training to government agencies and private organizations worldwide. Our education provides professionals with the knowledge, skills, and abilities to excel at every stage of their career contributing to safer communities and a more just society.

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