Dr. Suzanne Stewart to lead new institute devoted to health of Indigenous Canadians
Indigenous scholar thankful for ‘enriching experiences’ at OISE
January 27, 2017
After nearly a decade as a leading OISE scholar devoted to improving the lives of Indigenous people, Dr. Suzanne Stewart, Special Advisor to the Dean on Aboriginal Education, has accepted the position of Director, Waakebiness-Bryce Institute for Indigenous Health at the Dalla Lana School of Public Health.
The Institute is dedicated to the health of Indigenous Canadians and is among the first of its kind in the world. It was created last June with a $10 million gift from Michael and Amira Dan.
What she will ‘miss most’…
A gathering will be held at OISE on Jan. 27 to honour Dr. Stewart, an accomplished psychologist and professor.
“My time at OISE has brought me enriching experiences both professionally and personally, mentoring me in local, national and international innovative scholarship on a profound scale,” Dr. Stewart said.
“I was first drawn to OISE because of its institutional desire to embrace my Indigeneity and by the warmth and genuineness of my colleagues and students. These are what I will miss the most,” she added.
Dr. Stewart chaired the OISE Task Force on the Truth and Reconciliation Commission and was admired by many for this important work.
“Dr. Stewart’s remarkable efforts have contributed greatly to the advancement of Indigenous people here in Canada and around the world,” said OISE Dean Glen Jones. “She is a true inspiration and has made an incredible impact at OISE, the University of Toronto and beyond. We wish her all the best in her new position and hope to continue working with her in the future.”
‘Invaluable to me as an Indigenous student’
Indigenous Education Network coordinator Julie Blair echoes his praise.
"Dr. Stewart’s commitment to Indigenous education and mental health research at OISE has been invaluable to me as an Indigenous student. She has been a supportive mentor to her students, community members, and to myself in the time I’ve worked with her,” Blair said. “I wish her very best as she continues to serve the Indigenous community in her new role."
Dr. Stewart, who is also a member of the Yellowknife Dene First Nation and mother of four, began her new role on Jan. 1, 2017.
Announcement
Waakebiness-Bryce Institute for Indigenous Health
Indigenous Education Network
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