Old Sun Community College is an independent Indigenous post-secondary institution owned and operated by the Siksika Nation in southern Alberta. The College’s name honors “Old Sun”, Naato’saapi (1819-1897), a revered spiritual leader and renowned warrior.
The College’s roots as an adult educational institution began in 1971, with incorporation as Old Sun Society occurring in 1973. The College was first structured as a satellite campus of Mount Royal College (1971-76); the Siksika Nation restructured the College in 1978, and the College subsequently transformed into its current form as a quality Indigenous College operating under the authority of a Board of Governors (currently Chief and Council). The College was recognized as a private college by the Albert Legislature in 1988 through the Old Sun College Act.
Old Sun Community College is an active member of First Nations Adult & Higher Education Consortium (FNAHEC) and has been accredited by the National Indigenous Accreditation Board (NIAB, priorly FNAB) since 1997.
Mission Statement
“Old Sun Community College develops and offers quality courses, programs and services tailored to meet the needs of the Siksika Nation and individuals while preserving the Siksika Way of Life.”
Belief Statement
“Old Sun Community College has an important responsibility to enhance the sovereignty and Nationhood of Siksika. With an open heart and mind, Old Sun Community College respects diverse ways of life as it promotes the lifelong learning of Siksika culture, language, history and knowledge to our future generations.”