Our Leadership

Oshki-Wenjack is proud to be an Indigenous owned and operated post-secondary institution with a strong tradition of Indigenous leadership and governance.

Message from the Chair

The Staff and Board of Governors have been extremely busy at Oshki-Wenjack trying to keep public focus on the difference that Oshki-Wenjack makes in the lives of our students. Many of our people find mainstream education does not fit the needs of Indigenous students, their families and, yes, even sometimes their employers.

This is why we strive to deliver an innovative approach to distance education. Our students can look forward to being assisted every step of the way by our team of educators who are in tune with the First Nation communities. Being keenly aware of the issues facing Native Students makes us a good choice for those who, for varied reasons, feel that attending a post-secondary institution presents hardships that the student may not be able to overcome.

From the employer’s point of view, we can and do tailor our programs to meet the requirements of mainstream governments and community run programs. Our ability to adapt along with relatively low student to teacher ratio enriches the education environment.

We are very proud of what we have been able to achieve and even more proud of our graduates who have gone on to achieve greater things in their lives through a better education. We wish to thank all of our partners in education, industry, and government for the continued support for our institution. We can only hope that our proven success will continue to encourage partners to expand their investments in the future of Oshki-Wenjack and its students.

A special thanks from the Board of Governors goes out to Goldcorp. They have brought corporate sponsorship to a new level in providing onsite facilities, program design and real workforce opportunities for our students in a variety of positions with the company.

Message from the President

Boo Shoo! Wacheeye! Welcome to the Oshki-Pimache-O-Win: The Wenjack Education Institute, a place where you will learn in a culturally friendly and supportive setting! This place of learning was created by our visionary leaders, educators and elders for you and others who desire learning culturally relevant knowledge and skills for your home, workplace and community.

We are here to make your educational journey a meaningful and successful experience. A variety of student support services are available to you as an Oshki-Wenjack student to help you successfully complete the rigorous academic requirements of your chosen program of study. The services are designed to help you overcome any difficulties that may occur and can affect your ability to keep up with your studies whether you are studying on-campus in Thunder Bay or in the comfort of your home.

Please, don’t hesitate to reach out. Talk to your Instructor, Program Coordinator or a Student Support Navigator if you have any questions, need advice or guidance…or to just to talk to someone. Time will fly. Before you know it, you will be walking across the podium receiving your hard earned and well-deserved postsecondary credential.

Governing Council

Oshki-Wenjack receives its mandate from Nishnawbe Aski Nation Resolution #96/64. It is governed by a Governing Council of nine members. They bring a wide range of expertise and knowledge that support effective governance for fulfilling Oshki-Wenjack’s mission.

Governing Council Members
Name	First Nation	Tribal Council
Fabian Batise, Chair	Matachewan	Wabun Tribal Council
Arlene Jung, Vice Chair	Wawakapewin	Shibogama First Nations
Lynda Beardy, Secretary/Treasurer	Bearskin Lake	Independent First Nations Alliance
Frank Mckay		Windigo First Nations Council
Debbie Ross		Mushkegowuk Council
Vacant		Keewaytinook Okimakanak
Cynthia Fiddler	Sandy Lake	Independent First Nation
Lawrence Therriault	Aroland	Matawa First Nations
Tehya Quachegan – Youth	Moose Cree	Mushkegowuk Council
Sarah Waboose – Elder	Eabametoong	Matawa First Nations
Deputy Grand Chief Bobby Narcisse	Bearskin Lake	Nishnawbe Aski Nation Ex-Officio