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Biography

Tansi, My name is Izzy Ward (She/They) I am Two Spirit Métis person with familia linages from the Letendre and Desjarlais families. I was born in Edmonton where I was adopted and raised by the Ward’s. I am on a journey of reclaiming and connecting with my traditional Métis cultural heritage, knowledge, and teachings. This journey has been supported and encouraged by family, Elders, educators and community leaders, and I am very grateful for all the teachings that have been brought forward and shared with me.

I have a passion for science, learning and teaching. I started my science education at the University of Lethbridge studying neuroscience with experience in synthetic biology. Over the course of my undergraduate program, I engaged in several projects and opportunities that have led to exciting experiences I never would have expected, from laboratory research to international travel and science competitions. One of my experiences leading and teaching high school students genetic engineering inspired me to pursue a degree in education. After graduating from the University of Alberta’s teacher education program, I worked as a high school science teacher for the Siksika First Nation for 4 years, and coupled this with work in designing and delivering teacher professional development. I then moved out to Vancouver Island, to pursue my Masters in Education here at the University of Victoria, where I focused on the application of Indigenous pedagogy and Two-Eyed Seeing using educational technology as an approach for teaching education.

As the LE,NONET First Year STEM coordinator, I get to bring these experiences together to help support indigenous students navigate success in their pursuit of STEM education. I develop and deliver programs and services to help first year indigenous STEM students have the resources, skills, knowledge and confidence to successfully engage with their education and navigate their first year of university. As an indigenous student in STEM it can feel isolating So please come by my office in the First Peoples House so we can connect you with your Indigenous STEM peers, community and resources here on campus.

When I am not in the office, I like to be out having adventures connecting with nature while hiking and camping or exploring the beach for treasures. I like exploring my artistic curiosities and learning new skills.