2023 Luncheon Series - First Nations University President, Jacqueline Ottman

Dr. Jacqueline Ottmann (mizowaykomiguk paypomwayotung; thunder that can be felt over a large landscape) is Anishinaabe (Saulteaux) from Fishing Lake First Nation in Treaty Four, Saskatchewan. Dr. Ottmann is a purpose-driven leader that has dedicated her life's work in service to Indigenous education. Often described as a listener and strong leader Jackie's leadership is guided by Indigenous knowledges - ways of being, knowing, and doing. 

Dr. Ottmann has contributed to all levels of education as an elementary and high school teacher, a school principal, and within post-secondary institutions. At the University of Calgary, Ottmann held various scholarly and leadership positions, including Director of Indigenous Initiatives, Program Director, and Co-Chair of the Indigenous Strategy. After 13 years at UCalgary, she became the inaugural Vice-Provost Indigenous Engagement at the University of Saskatchewan, developing the university's first Indigenous Strategy ohpahotân | oohpaahotaan let's fly up together. 

Ottmann is the first Indigenous person to become President of the Canadian Study for the Society of Education, and the founder of Thrivance: Journal of Indigenous Ways of Being, Knowing, and Doing. Jacqueline's research interests include leadership, change management, organizational theories and practices, and strategic development. 

Jacqueline is driven to create schools, organizations, and communities that foster a deeper sense of belonging and appreciation for Indigenous peoples' histories, stories, philosophies, knowledges, intellect, traditions, and lived experiences. 

She has been recognized as an international researcher, advocate, and change-maker whose purpose is to transform practices inclusive of Indigenous methodologies and pedagogies. In 2021, Dr. Ottmann accepted the role as President of First Nations University of Canada, Canada's only national Indigenous university. At First Nations University of Canada, she has been raising the university's profile and influence nationally and internationally, expanding programming and reach, and being a true role model for Indigenous Leadership.