Faculty Profile - Wilma Gus

I am a member of the Tseshaht. I live and work in the Alberni Valley, in our traditional territory, as my family has for generations. I have been with North Island College since 1993, starting as an Aboriginal coordinator and moving into instruction and assessment.  I am committed to promoting student success and work as a team to help students to achieve their educational goals  in their studies at North Island College.

Throughout my career I've been able to work with children, youth, adults and elders. I've taught in elementary school, the University of British Columbia, and worked for the Ministry of Advanced Education. I've also had the opportunity to do some curriculum development in biology, business and First Nations Studies.

I come from a family background rich in artistic expression.I am passionate about Northwest Coast arts and technologies and have been able to make several visits to the collections held at the American Museum of Natural History. I view the objects held in collections as an expression of the survival of Northwest Coast peoples in many environments and of their creativity and ingenuity. I have recently learned  Coast Salish weaving.

I have been involved with the Alberni Valley Wrestling Club and Team BC for the North American Indigenous Games for many years. I believe in involvement in sports as a means of development for youth at many levels.