UNBC Honors Edie Frederick with Indigenous Research Studio Renaming

The University of Northern British Columbia (UNBC) has renamed its First Nations Centre Research Studio to the Edie Frederick Indigenous Research Studio, honoring the legacy of its first Elder in residence, Edith Frederick. This change reflects the late Frederick’s dedication to preserving the Dakelh (Carrier) language and culture. A ribbon-cutting ceremony on November 24, 2023, marked the occasion, with family members, representatives of the Lheidli T’enneh First Nation, students, and UNBC staff in attendance.

Speaking on behalf of the Frederick family, Jason Frederick expressed deep gratitude for the recognition. “It is so special to see this space named in honour of my mother,” he stated. “She cared deeply about sharing language, stories, and traditional skills so others could learn them. This studio will continue that spirit of connection, learning, and cultural exchange.”

The renaming was welcomed by UNBC’s interim vice-president Indigenous, Penína Sara-Lynn Harding, who emphasized the importance of honoring Frederick’s enduring impact. “The studio embodies the kind of space Edie helped cultivate — one grounded in respect, reciprocity, and community,” said Harding. “The Edie Frederick Indigenous Research Studio is a small way to acknowledge her lasting legacy at the First Nations Centre and UNBC.”

Frederick’s contributions to the university have been significant. Her work has directly supported numerous students, faculty, and staff in engaging with Indigenous knowledge systems, playing a vital role in advancing reconciliation and Indigenization efforts across the Prince George campus.

Chief Dolleen Logan of the Lheidli T’enneh First Nation highlighted Frederick’s role as a cultural educator. “Edie was a teacher, a language keeper, and a bridge between generations,” Logan stated. “She helped ensure that Dakelh culture and knowledge have a place at UNBC. This renaming honors not only Edie’s memory but also our shared responsibility to carry her teachings forward.”

Frederick’s influence extended beyond her role as an Elder. She was instrumental in providing Dakelh translations for various campus locations, including the university’s name, Nizdeh Nekeyoh Hohudel’eh Baiyoh (House of Learning), and she personally named the Firepit in the Agora Courtyard as Tseba (by the fire).

Interim UNBC President Bill Owen acknowledged Frederick’s contributions, noting, “Through sharing her passion for language and culture preservation and revitalization, Edie’s contributions are woven into the fabric of the campus. Her guidance and generosity of spirit will have a lasting impact on the university community. This space stands as a tribute to her profound contributions and the values she embodied.”

An engraved wooden plaque detailing some of Frederick’s many contributions will remain on display in the studio, alongside her portrait, ensuring that her legacy continues to inspire future generations at UNBC.