Story by Moises Canales-Lavigne, Global News
Posted October 25, 2024
Leadership is a term Misiaykimigookpaypomwayotung, or Jacqueline Ottmann in English, has known all too well since her youth when she was growing up on Fishing Lake First Nation, approximately two hours from Regina on Treaty 4 territory.
Ottmann, the president of First Nations University of Canada, said she learned what it takes to be a leader because of the strong leadership skills her parents demonstrated throughout her life.
“That was a frustration that I had within the education system as an educator and was always compelled to further my education to impact teachers or students who are hoping to be teachers,” she said.
Ottmann’s circle of influence increased as her career progressed, which included stops at the University of Calgary and the University of Saskatchewan, where she held academic leadership roles. In 2021, after serving as professor and vice-provost of Indigenous engagement at USask, Ottmann was named president of FNU.
She is widely acknowledged as an advocate and researcher with a drive to generate social justice.
Through her work and advocacy over the years, Ottmann has proven to be not only an academic leader but also a leader striving to create positive change.
Video Link: Shaping Saskatchewan: Jacqueline Ottmann | Globalnews.ca