Alessandra Cross

Haida Gwaii Institute

HGI develops and delivers transformative education inspired by Haida Gwaii. We offer students immersive, experiential learning opportunities in rural, resource-dependent communities in transition. Here the Haida Nation, island communities, and provincial and federal governments are working through complex joint management models towards reconciliation and sustainability. Drawing on Haida Gwaii's legacy of innovation and leadership, HGI offers a range of programming including undergraduate semesters, executive education and professional development courses, research opportunities, public lectures and workshops, and more. HGI embraces a place-based approach; we see the social and ecological systems of Haida Gwaii as vibrant natural classrooms for our students to engage with, grounding course content in living, local case studies. We believe in working together and facilitating a rich collaboration between academics and local knowledge holders, supporting a meaningful learning exchange and the development of a broad perspective. As issues around the globe become increasingly complex, our programs help position students at the leading edge, preparing them to be future leaders and decision-makers.