Syllabics
Dr. Jacqueline Ottmann is Anishinaabe (Saulteaux) from Fishing Lake First Nation in Saskatchewan. Prior to her academic career, Jackie was an elementary, high school teacher and principal. She remains an engaged scholar alongside her responsibilities as a senior academic leader. While at the University of Calgary, she was the Coordinator of the First Nations, Métis, Inuit undergraduate teacher education program, and Director of Indigenous Education Initiatives within the Werklund School of Education (WSE). She also co-chaired the WSE Indigenous Strategy, and alongside the Provost, the university-wide Indigenous Strategy.
After her time with the University of Saskatchewan as Professor and Vice-Provost Indigenous Engagement, Jacqueline Ottmann was appointed President of the First Nations University of Canada. Ottmann has been recognized as an international researcher, advocate, and change-maker whose purpose is to transform practices inclusive of Indigenous leadership, methodologies, and pedagogies. Jacqueline is driven to create schools and communities that foster a deeper sense of belonging and appreciation for Indigenous peoples – their histories, stories, ways of knowing and being. Ottmann is also the first Indigenous person to become President of the Canadian Society for the Study of Education.
Dr. Ramona Neckoway, a First Nation scholar from Nisichawayasihk Cree Nation in northern Manitoba, holds a PhD from the University of Manitoba. She has served in leadership roles, including Program Chair, Director, Associate Vice-President, and Vice-President (Indigenous Initiatives and Reconciliation). Dr. Neckoway is dedicated to Indigenous education and has led Indigenous language programming and revitalization initiatives. She also has extensive research and teaching experience.
Dr. Neckoway is strongly committed to Indigenous knowledge, ethical research, and collaborative leadership.
Dr. Neckoway joined FNUniv on January 1, 2026, and is located at the Regina Campus.
Tara Thompson began her journey with FNUniv as a student in 2006 and has held several positions within the University, with the most recent as the Senior Analyst for the President’s Office.
Tara has also held roles outside of FNUniv during her career, gaining valuable experience in diverse sectors to expand her skills and work perspectives.
Tara’s role as Chief Administrative Officer is overseeing and managing several service and support departments within FNUniv, including HR, PPM, IT, the Daycare and Cafe, and the art collection.
Istvan Samayoa brings a wealth of experience from a variety of sectors, including non-profit organizations, to FNUniv.
His diverse skill set and experience make him exceptionally well-equipped to contribute to the financial stewardship of FNUniv, ensuring its continued success and impact. Istvan was previously the Director of Finance prior to his transition to CFO. Istvan has helped to strengthen our financial systems and procedures and has been a valuable member of the executive.
Istvan’s role as Chief Financial Officer is overseeing and managing the finance and accounting functions.
For campus locations, maps and hours of operation, please visit our contact us page.
(the good path through life)
(the good path through life)