Indigenous Pharmacy Student Collegium
Student-founded and led community of practice within UPROOT, providing psychosocial support, peer mentorship, and professional development for self‑identified Indigenous students in the Entry‑to‑Practice PharmD program.
UPROOT Indigenous Pharmacy Student Collegium (IPSC)
Aims & Activities
The IPSC aims to provide self-identified Indigenous students in the Entry-to-Practice PharmD Program a safe place to engage with others and partake in exclusive Indigenous student-only events as well as host cultural engagement activities available to all students within the faculty.
The IPSC continues to plan expanded engagement, mentorship, and professional networking events for the upcoming academic year (2025–2026).
Safe, Supported Community: Creates a connected environment for Indigenous pharmacy students across all four years to gather, share experiences, and build a peer network.
Cultural Engagement Workshops: Hosts inclusive workshops and crafting circles, such as dreamcatcher weaving and medicine-bag design, open to both Indigenous and non-Indigenous students alike.
Indigenous-Specific Student Events: Facilitates cultural activities specifically for Indigenous students including rural/remote community immersion visits, mentoring with local health centre staff, and traditional meals with Hereditary Chiefs.
Organizational Leadership & Vision: Guided by student-led executives with strategic support from UBC’s Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences and UPROOT.
Joining the Collegium
Open to self-identified Indigenous students enrolled in UBC’s PharmD program.
Contact us at our email below or follow us on Instagram to stay up to date with membership information and upcoming events!
IPSC Logo & Cultural Significance
Design and Meaning
The Indigenous Pharmacy Student Collegium (IPSC) logo is created by designer Debra Sparrow—a Musqueam Coast Salish artist. The logo is an amalgamation of traditional Indigenous concepts and contemporary design components.
The IPSC logo is inspired by the original UPROOT logo, drawing from traditional regalia used in healing ceremonies. This logo concentrates on the importance of people and community and focuses on the circular spindle whirl, which represents continuous collaboration and learning.
The Artist
Debra Sparrow, born and raised on the Musqueam Indian Village, is a visual artist, graphic designer, knowledge keeper, and leading figure in the revival of Musqueam Coast Salish weaving.
Sparrow creates art that embodies traditional Musqueam teachings while embracing innovative and contemporary design. Her hope is to educate others about the depths and integrity of Musqueam history through her artwork, activism, and public speaking.