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December 02, 2025
At MITT’s Adult Learning Centres, learning goes beyond textbooks. Sometimes, the best lessons stem from stories, culture, and connection.
That’s why MITT is proud to welcome Phyllis Crow as a Knowledge Keeper for the Adult Learning Centres this fall. It’s a role that brings Indigenous wisdom and teachings into the heart of our classrooms and communities.
Crow is originally from Naotkamegwanning First Nation in Northwest Ontario, and taught courses for many years at our Adult Learning Centres. Though she’s no longer at the front of a classroom, she will still very much be teaching through her passion for storytelling.
Knowledge Keepers are selected by their Indigenous nations to carry, protect, and share cultural teachings and oral traditions. At MITT, Crow’s spiritual, cultural, and lived wisdom will be sought out by staff and students navigating both traditional and modern challenges.
“I would add ‘Knowledge Seeker’ to my title, as I’m always looking to learn more,” said Crow of her new role. “I hope that spirit of curiosity inspires others to learn more about Indigenous culture and teachings too. There are so many teachings that even Indigenous youth don’t know today because those messages have gotten lost. So, I hope to go against that loss of culture.”
Crow’s new role expands MITT’s Indigenous supports across more of our learning pathways. She will be available one day a week at the Adult Learning Centres, rotating between the St. Vital, St. Norbert, Erin, and Portage la Prairie campuses.
“Having Phyllis join us as a Knowledge Keeper will have a lot of impact at our Adult Learning Centres,” said Rhonda Klippenstein, Senior Manager, Indigenous Initiatives and Community Development. “She’s a familiar face who already has relationships with staff and knows how our centres operate, which will give her greater opportunity to share with staff and students. She’s also able to provide support specifically to Indigenous students, and that really makes a big difference in them feeling at home and finding their path forward.”
Crow is excited to work alongside MITT’s other Knowledge Keepers Lori Hart and Joe Thompson, knowing that they each bring valuable wisdom to the table.
“In my discussions with the other Knowledge Keepers, we all have different upbringings and experiences. None of us have the same knowledge. So, I hope to complement what they’re already bringing to MITT.”
By welcoming Phyllis Crow as a Knowledge Keeper, MITT is deepening its commitment to Indigenous students and to the cultural teachings that enrich our entire community. Her presence is evidence that education is a lifelong journey, and that curiosity and connection are at the heart of growth. Together, we’re building pathways that honour tradition while opening doors to the future.
Learn more about MITT’s Indigenous Supports at MITT.ca/indigenous-supports.
