Prince George, B.C. – Yvonne Pierreroy, a Dakelh knowledge holder, cultural leader and foundational figure in the history the University of Northern British Columbia, will receive an honorary Doctor of Laws degree during UNBC’s 2025 Convocation ceremony at the Prince George campus on May 30.

The respected Elder has spent her adult life committed to the preservation, revitalization and celebration of Dakelh language, history and culture. As a founding member of UNBC, Pierreroy’s longstanding dedication to sharing her knowledge has helped shape the University as a place where Indigenous voices are heard, amplified and empowered.

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. She was raised speaking Dakelh ghuni and remains fluent in this endangered language.

“The knowledge I carry comes from my parents; they were my teachers’” says 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. She has also taught the language extensively through courses she helped to develop at UNBC and online.

A gifted artisan, the Dakelh Elder is known throughout northern B.C. for her finely detailed, handcrafted creations, including clan vests, wedding mukluks and button blankets. She has worked with members of the Lheidli T’enneh First Nation and Nezul Be Hunuyeh families on a number of cultural projects.

“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.”

Even before the doors of UNBC officially opened, Pierreroy began generously sharing her wisdom and insight with the University. As one of the initial employees, she participated in the early hiring process for incoming faculty and administration. Over the course of her 17-year career, she worked out of the Provost’s Office, managed the First Nations Centre in an interim role and worked closely with a range of academic departments and programs. 

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,” says 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.”

Knowing the challenges some students face in leaving their home communities to attend school, Pierreroy was instrumental in liaising with UNBC and the Nak’azdli Whut’en Band Council to launch the Dakelh Language Certification Program in Fort St. James in 2006. The program has served as a template for similar partnerships with other communities.

Collaborative efforts with UNBC Associate Professor Agnieszka Pawlowska-Mainville resulted in the publication of a user-friendly, interactive book, the Nak’azdli Medical Pocket Phrasebook, to support medical practitioners and students in northern B.C. in treating Dakelh patients. While a co-designed course saw students engage in the traditional practice of moose-hide tanning to explore cultural heritage through experiential learning.

Beyond her roles as an employee and educator, Pierreroy’s connection to the University as a respected Dakelh knowledge holder has been broader and more enduring. For 35 years, her contributions have helped weave Dakelh knowledge into the heart, fostered relationships with local Indigenous communities and continue to support the ongoing journey of learning and reconciliation.

By openly sharing her knowledge through her artistry, teachings, mentorship and guidance, Pierreroy’s tireless efforts in Dakelh language and cultural revitalization have had a profound impact on students, faculty, colleagues and community members across the region.

In reflecting on what has been her life’s work, she acknowledges the integral role of her family in helping her carry this legacy forward.

“I’ve never done this work alone,” says Pierreroy. “My 97-year-old mother Mildred Martin has always been beside me, as was my late father Frank – passing on knowledge and guiding me. My husband Ron has supported and worked with me every step of the way. We’ve always worked in tandem, and I’m grateful for their strength, love and commitment to our culture.”

Pierreroy will be awarded the honorary degree during the morning ceremony celebrating the Class of 2025 at Convocation at UNBC’s Prince George campus on May 30.