Originally called the Saskatchewan Indian Federated College, it was
renamed in 2003 as the First Nations University of Canada, when it
renounced its affiliations with the University of Regina in
Saskatchewan. It is now North America's only Aboriginal-run
university and is dedicated to teaching Aboriginal people about
their own history and culture.
Cardinal and his firm were commissioned to develop a long-term
strategic plan for the College's operations and growth. The first
phase consisted of 22,000 square meters of studios, laboratories,
classrooms, recreation, offices, and cultural facilities. At a cost
of $25M, the fully developed campus has 27,000 square meters of
space, including on-campus housing for 250 students.
The University fulfilled the original vision of a structure that is
harmoniously integrated into its landscape, while maintaining a
sense of community. The main floor's colour scheme was done in
green to represent Mother Earth; the second floor in red to
represent all living creatures; the third floor in blue for the
sky; and the fourth floor, yellow, in honour of the sun and
Creator.
A glass teepee provided a focal point in the main floor gathering
space. In addition to the star-blanket design at the heart of the
main floor is a two-storey elder's teepee that houses a fire pit
inset into the floor. The elder's teepee is ringed by a custom-carved pipestone hearth, which is used for sweet grass ceremonies
and other cultural gatherings.
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