TORONTO – My year with NWAC has been an extremely rewarding experience but I must announce that effective Friday, June 29, 2018 I officially step down as the Native Women’s Association of Canada’s Director of Operations. My departure is in support of an absolutely wonderful accolade awarded to my wife, Keri Cheechoo; Keri has accepted a prestigious Fellowship and Teaching position at Queen’s University in Kingston, ON. Exciting times!
While I will miss being a part of the NWAC Team, I am excited about the fast-approaching milestones in store for NWAC, the Board of Directors, the PTMAs and Indigenous Women and their families across this nation.
I thank Lynne Groulx, Executive Director, for the opportunity to support NWAC in pursuing its vision for Indigenous Women and Girls and members of the LGBTQ2S and Non-Binary communities. I depart with the upmost confidence in Unit management; the Unit Directors are unquestionably dedicated to their positions and lead great teams. What I marvel most about the current makeup of NWAC’s Team is the strength and dedication of frontline and junior staff members; there is, without a doubt, strength from diversity. The current 50+ member team is a solid foundation for NWAC that will bring about more growth and enhanced outreach across Canada and the globe.
I also wish to especially thank Elders Alma Brooks and Roseann Martin for their wise words and our wonderful conversations. NWAC is fortunate to have such dedicated leaders that are helping to move NWAC along an exciting path.
I intend on keeping in touch and look forward to witnessing NWAC’s successes and milestones from afar. Rest assured that with NWAC’s achievements and growth over the past 18 months there are much more important milestones in store for NWAC.
Meengwetch.
Patrick Cheechoo