NAN Deputy Grand Chief Goyce Kakegamic recognized by NOMS
PRESS RELEASE
June 30, 2003
NOMS recognizes a friend
Northern Ontario Medical School recently recognized the outstanding support and commitment of Nishnawbe Aski Nation Deputy Grand Chief Goyce Kakegamic with the presentation of a special plaque. The award was made at the close of NOMS' Aboriginal Workshop held recently in the Anishinabeg community of Wauzhushk Onigum First Nation near Kenora.
In making the special presentation Dr. Roger Strasser, Founding Dean of NOMS, acknowledged Kakegamic's successful efforts in ensuring that Aboriginal People have a strong voice on the new NOMS Board of Directors. He also acknowledged Kakegamic's contribution to the development of NOMS' curriculum, governance, and to the issues around recruitment and retention of Aboriginal students.
"Goyce has been a strong advocate for Aboriginal People, and for the cause of NOMS," said Strasser. "It hasn't always been easy for us to hear what Goyce has to say, but there is no doubt that NOMS is a better institution because of Goyce's support, advice and assistance."
In accepting the award Kakegamic thanked Strasser, and the staff and faculty of NOMS. He acknowledged the efforts to bring Aboriginal issues to the forefront within NOMS, but said there is still a great deal to be done.
"I accept this recognition not for myself but for all of the partners; NAN, Grand Council Treaty #3, Anishnabek Nation, who worked collectively to bring a full campus to Thunder Bay to serve the needs of the Northwest," said Kakegamic. "However, this is only the first step. There is much work ahead and we must be ready to roll up our sleeves and get on with the job at hand."
A new medical school for the whole of Northern Ontario, the Northern Ontario Medical School is a joint venture of Laurentian and Lakehead Universities. With main campuses in Sudbury and Thunder Bay, NOMS will have multiple teaching and research sites distributed across Northern Ontario, in large and small communities. NOMS will contribute to improving the health care of people in Northern Ontario.
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For more information contact:
Michael OReilly
NOMS-West Communications Officer
(807) 229-7746
michael.oreilly@normed.ca
www.normed.ca
Mick Lowe
NOMS-East Communications Officer
(705) 969-7213
mick.lowe@normed.ca
www.normed.ca