Yvonne Pierreroy, a Dakelh knowledge holder, cultural leader and foundational figure in the history of UNBC, will receive an honorary Doctor of Laws.
It will happen during the 2025 Convocation ceremony at the Prince George campus on May 30th.
The Elder has spent her adult life committed to the preservation, revitalization and celebration of Dakelh language, history and culture.
Born on the unceded traditional territory of the Nak’azdli Whut’en near Fort St. James, Pierreroy spent her childhood with her parents and 11 siblings, learning traditional Dakelh ways through daily tasks like fixing fishing nets, smoking meat, tanning hides and harvesting berries.
“The knowledge I carry comes from my parents; they were my teachers’” said Pierreroy.
“I’ve always believed in the importance of sharing what I know with those who want to learn, so that Dakelh language and culture will continue into the future.”
Pierreroy has spent decades contributing to the creation of numerous Dakelh language and cultural resources across the region.
As a member of the Carrier Linguistic Society, she has collaborated with others to preserve and transmit the language through books, recordings, digital tools and online platforms.
The Dakelh Elder is known throughout northern B.C. for her finely detailed, handcrafted creations, including clan vests, wedding mukluks and button blankets.
“Teaching others how to bead or make moccasins is about more than crafting, it’s about connecting to culture in a hands-on way,” says Pierreroy. “Every stitch holds meaning and when I share those skills, it’s another way to pass on knowledge in a meaningful way.”
It was during her early days as an employee that Pierreroy also became a student, enrolling in the first Carrier language course to be offered at UNBC. She soon became a co-instructor.
“The phrase ‘En Cha Huná, was taught as a respectful way to refer to all living things – from Mother Earth to humans and animals,” added Pierreroy.
“When the University began looking for suggestions for a motto, we all felt ‘En Cha Huná beautifully captured the spirit of what UNBC should stand for – respect, inclusivity and a deep connection to the land and all forms of life.”
For 35 years, her contributions helped weave Dakelh knowledge into the heart, fostered relationships with local Indigenous communities and continue to support the ongoing journey of learning and reconciliation.
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