Saskatchewan Roughriders Indigenous Logo Funds $60,000 in Awards

Proceeds from merchandise featuring the Saskatchewan Roughriders’ Indigenous logo are generating significant financial support for Indigenous students. A total of $60,000 will be awarded to students entering their first year at the First Nations University of Canada (FNUniv). The announcement was made on Wednesday at the university’s campus in Regina, in collaboration with the Saskatchewan Roughriders Football Club and the Saskatchewan Roughrider Foundation (SRF).

The Indigenous logo was designed by Chris Chipak from the Red Pheasant Cree Nation, commissioned by the Roughriders as part of their commitment to Truth and Reconciliation. This initiative not only highlights the team’s dedication to Indigenous communities but also aims to foster educational opportunities for Indigenous youth.

Funding Breakdown and Future Plans

The funding consists of a $40,000 ‘Away from Home’ bursary, which supports Indigenous students who must move from their home communities to attend FNUniv. Additionally, a $20,000 scholarship created by the SRF will reward academic excellence among new Indigenous students. According to Craig Reynolds, president and CEO of the Roughriders, the award money is derived from sales of merchandise featuring the Indigenous logo in green. He noted that sales from 2025 merchandise are still being finalized.

Reynolds emphasized the positive response from fans, stating, “The merchandise with the new logo ‘flew off the shelves.’ The reaction was fabulous and significant.” He hinted that further announcements regarding additional student funding could be forthcoming.

The ‘Away from Home’ bursary, valued at $2,500 per award, will be offered to eight students in both the fall 2026 and 2027 terms. The SRF Scholarship will also provide four awards each term, with the same value. FNUniv has indicated that these awards will greatly assist students transitioning to university life.

Impact on Indigenous Students

Breanna Desnomie, a fourth-year Indigenous social work student at FNUniv, expressed her gratitude for the support. She stated that the scholarship and bursary would alleviate financial pressures, allowing incoming students to concentrate on their education rather than worrying about expenses. Desnomie highlighted the importance of the bursary, noting that it expands access for young Indigenous people from rural and northern communities.

“These funds really help our northern communities and those in rural areas to leave their supports and start their education,” Desnomie explained. She emphasized that various costs, such as childcare and transportation, often pose significant barriers for Indigenous students pursuing post-secondary education.

FNUniv president Jacqueline Ottmann affirmed the importance of this financial support, stating it reinforces that students are valued and supported as they embark on their academic journeys. Reynolds also took time to thank Roughriders fans for their enthusiastic purchases of the Indigenous logo merchandise, saying, “From the moment you saw that, you knew it was stunning and beautiful. Our fans felt the same.”

This partnership between the Roughriders, the SRF, and FNUniv represents a meaningful step toward enhancing educational opportunities for Indigenous students in Saskatchewan. As this initiative unfolds, it is likely to inspire further support and engagement within the community.