THUNDER BAY, ON – March 31, 2026 — Confederation College marked the 30th anniversary of its Community Partners’ Evening on Thursday, March 26, bringing together community leaders, partners and supporters to celebrate student success and community impact.
The evening welcomed more than 200 attendees to their campus, making it the largest edition of the event to date. A highlight of the evening was the recognition of this year’s Community Partner of the Year, Peter Collins, CEO of Chi Mino Ozhitoowin.
Over 30 years, Community Partners’ Evening has welcomed approximately 3,500 attendees and collectively raised almost $1 million in support of Confederation College students. Those funds have helped support more than 2,000 students through bursaries, reducing financial barriers and creating opportunities for learners across the college. This year’s event raised approximately $60,000.
The evening also featured remarks from SUCCI President Kai Fucile Ladouceur, who spoke about the student experience and the impact of bursary support. “As a former student who received various bursaries and awards to help pay for my education, I understand the impact an event like this has on students,”
Ladouceur said. “It gives them the ability to focus and succeed in their studies as well as become involved in student life without having to worry as much about the financial pressures on them.”
“Community Partners’ Evening reflects what is possible when a community comes together in support of students and post-secondary education,” said Michelle Salo, President of Confederation College. “This event has helped create opportunities for learners across our college. We are deeply grateful to everyone who has contributed to that legacy and to the partners here and across the region who continue to invest in student success.”
Peter Collins was recognized for his leadership, long-standing service to the community, and partnerships with the college. An Anishinaabe leader from Fort William First Nation, Collins has served as Regional Grand Chief of the Northern Superior Region and as Chief of Fort William First Nation. He currently serves as CEO of Chi Mino Ozhitoowin, where he leads a partnership of seven First Nation communities involved in the Waasigan Transmission Line Project, with a focus on training, employment, procurement and environmental stewardship.
Community Partners’ Evening is Confederation College’s signature fundraising event, celebrating the generosity and partnership that helps students pursue their education and achieve their goals. In recognition of the 30th year, the college shared a retrospective video, highlighting student participation and recognizing community partnerships throughout the evening program.
