Edwards School of Business

This June, in recognition of Indigenous History Month in Canada, we're highlighting what faculty and staff at Edwards are reading and watching to deepen understanding, foster reflection, and support ongoing learning.

Cheryl Loadman, lecturer, shares her thoughts below! 💭

📗: Five Little Indians by Michelle Good

I recently read Five Little Indians, a 2020 Canadian novel by Michelle Good that follows five Indigenous survivors of Canada’s residential school system as they attempt to rebuild their lives after enduring severe trauma. I was deeply moved by the story. Through rich storytelling and amazing characters, the novel sheds light on the lasting impacts of residential schools while also highlighting the resilience, strength, and humanity of those who survived them. The characters and their journeys will stay with me long after finishing the book.

The story challenged me as a reader to better understand not only residential schools, but also the deeper, interconnected layers of Saskatchewan and Canada's history. As a result, it has influenced my decision to attend the ceremony in August 2026 at Fort Carlton Provincial Park, recognizing the signing of Treaty 6. Treaty 6 was signed in 1876 between the Crown and several First Nations.

Each time I explore the historical significance of Indigenous peoples in shaping our country, I find a deeper respect for and understanding of the strength, capabilities and resilience of Indigenous communities, as well as a fuller appreciation of our shared history and collective path forward.

What is on your bookshelf right now?

Jyotsna (Jo) Custead (B.Comm. 1975) is a longtime community leader whose more than 40 years of volunteer service has strengthened organizations and advanced equity across Saskatoon and beyond.

In May, she was honoured with the Lifetime Achievement Award at the YWCA Saskatoon's 44th annual Women of Distinction Awards.

Here are five things to know about Jo Custead’s leadership and impact 👇
https://ow.ly/5cpA50ZaaVK

Please join us in congratulating Jo in the comments below 🎉

Congratulations to Brooke Klassen (B.Comm. 2003, MBA 2011) the Edwards School of Business recipient of the 2026 Provost's College Awards!

The Provost’s Award for Outstanding Teaching is presented annually to recognize excellence in teaching across five key areas: exemplifying learning, striving for excellence, assessing fairly, enhancing continuously and demonstrating purposeful leadership📚.

Known for her dynamic, hands-on approach to teaching and research, Klassen specializes in case-based learning that explores the intersection of marketing, strategy, and societal impact. In her words:

“I hope students come away with the confidence to embrace a growth mindset and remain open to change. There are many ways to understand the world, and the best decisions are rarely simple or obvious. I encourage students to consider multiple perspectives, question assumptions, and see uncertainty as an opportunity for learning rather than a barrier. Through this process, I have seen them grow in their ability to think critically and navigate challenges with both humility and purpose.”

Read about how Klassen helps students navigate complexity with confidence here: https://ow.ly/AK9550ZaIuZ

Read more about all the recipients here: https://ow.ly/JbCP50ZaIv0

Please join us in congratulating Brooke below👏

"There are many things I have appreciated about the Edwards MBA program, but one of my favourite parts is the strong sense of community. It is not just about academics, but it is about the people you meet and the perspectives they bring." - Saman, Edwards JD/MBA Student

Learn how a combined JD/MBA degree is helping Saman gain confidence in thinking like both a lawyer and a business professional: https://www.edwards.usask.ca/news/2026/legal-theory-meets-practical-business-application-with-a-jdmba-degree-at-edwards-school-of-business.aspx

Heather Adams (B.Comm. 2005), co-founder and CEO of Rock & Bloom, has grown her Saskatoon-based brand consultancy into an internationally recognized firm rooted in strategy, creativity, and purpose.

In May, she was honoured with the Business and Entrepreneurship Award at the YWCA Saskatoon’s 44th annual Women of Distinction Awards.

Here are five things to know about her leadership and impact 👇
https://ow.ly/P02N50Za9KF

Please join us in congratulating Heather in the comments below! 🎉

This June, in recognition of Indigenous History Month in Canada, we're highlighting what faculty and staff at Edwards are reading and watching to deepen understanding, foster reflection, and support ongoing learning.

Leslie Martin, lecturer, shares her thoughts below! 💭

📗: Kiss of the Fur Queen by Tomson Highway

If you enjoy reading a novel as an exquisitely vivid song that illustrates the devastating impacts of residential schools, then please read Kiss of the Fur Queen by Tomson Highway. The novel, published in 1998, is a passionate story of resilience and hope that explores identity, trauma, and the lasting effects of colonialism on Indigenous Peoples in Canada. The words, though painful, dance along the pages and allow the reader to imagine themselves in the lives of two Cree brothers, Champion and Ooneemeetoo as they grow up in northern Manitoba and are later forced into the Catholic residential school system.

The haunting wink of the Fur Queen leaves the reader wondering whether the protector is merely amused by the situation or faithfully waiting to whisk their spirits away to a better place. This profound emotion is punctuated with humorous scenes that express the warmth of the Cree community and the importance of identity. The symbolism of Champion protecting Ooneemeetoo from the Caribou herd sets the stage for family strength, which is tested throughout the novel. The use of Cree language allows the readers to engage more deeply with the novel and experience the contrasting journeys of the brothers. Though the story is emotionally difficult to read, the beauty of family, culture, and survival sings through the pages.

What is on your bookshelf right now?

Resilience, hard work and community can take you far.

Congratulations once again to Baylie White, this year’s Goodspeed Award recipient at spring convocation. Her journey is a great example of showing up, stepping outside your comfort zone and leaning on your support system.

Read the full story here: https://ow.ly/FKV650Z8glR

Looking back on the Edwards convocation ceremony, we celebrate the achievements of our graduates.🎓 💚

The ceremony also honoured outstanding individuals from the Edwards community, recognizing their contributions and inspiring excellence.

Murad Al-Katib (B.Comm. 1994) was awarded an honorary degree in recognition of his leadership, global impact, and contributions to addressing food security.

Congratulations once again to the .