Indigenius Canada

From the source document

Indigenous Academic Pioneers

Indigenous Canadian Academic Milestones & Pioneers: A Timeline

Person-specific milestones at North American universities

The title and subtitle of the source document, quoted exactly.

Scope. This document lists the chronology of significant academic accomplishments and milestones of Canadian Indigenous peoples who attended or worked at universities and colleges in North America over the past 170 years.

Scope & Methodology →

pioneers
95
milestones
136
years of achievement
160
institutions
50

Filter the list

All 136 milestone rows from the source table. Names and photos link to each person's page.
Person Year(s) University Accomplishment Photo Accomplishment refs
Peter Edmund Jones – Kahkewaquonaby (Mississauga Ojibwe) Mississauga Ojibwe 1866 * Queen’s College (Now Queen’s University) First Indigenous Canadian to earn an MD. He was North America’s first licensed physician of Indigenous heritage. First Indigenous person to graduate from Queen’s University 1
Oronhyatekha (Peter Martin; Mohawk) Peter Martin; Mohawk 1866 University of Toronto First Indigenous Canadian to earn a 4-year bachelor’s degree (Bachelor of Medicine or MB) at a Canadian university. First Indigenous person to graduate from the University of Toronto. 2
Oronhyatekha (Peter Martin; Mohawk) Peter Martin; Mohawk 1867 * University of Toronto Second Indigenous Canadian to earn an MD and become a physician. First Indigenous Canadian to earn a post-baccalaureate MD. First Indigenous person to graduate from the University of Toronto with an MD. 2
George Edward Bomberry (Cayuga) Cayuga 1875 * McGill University Third Indigenous Canadian to earn an MD/CM and become a physician. McGill identifies the Cayuga hereditary chief as the university’s first Indigenous graduate. 3
Reginald William Gunn (Métis) Métis 1880 Manitoba College (now University of Manitoba) First Métis university graduate and first Indigenous Canadian to earn a university degree at a Western Canadian university. Second Indigenous Canadian to graduate with a 4-year degree -- a BA (in Natural Science) in a Canadian university. First Indigenous Canadian to earn a BA. Recipient of the first degree ever conferred by the University of Manitoba. 4
Thomas Daniel Green (Mohawk) Mohawk 1882 McGill University First Indigenous Canadian and first Treaty or Status First Nations Canadian to graduate with an engineering or applied science degree (B.A.Sc. or B. Eng.) in a Canadian university. Became the first Indigenous accredited land surveyor in Canada. 5
Robert Bird Steinhauer (Cree) Cree 1887 Victoria College (now University of Toronto) First First Nations Canadian to earn a BA. Second Indigenous Canadian to graduate with a BA (Philosophy & Pollity) from a Canadian university and first Indigenous Canadian from Alberta (or what would be Alberta) to earn a university degree. 6
Edward Ahenakew (Cree) Cree 1912 Emmanuel College (now part of the University of Saskatchewan) First Indigenous Canadian to graduate with a 2-year theology licentiate (LTh) from a Canadian university. He was also the University of Saskatchewan’s first Indigenous graduate. 7
Elmer Ernest Jamieson (Mohawk) Mohawk 1913 McMaster University Third Indigenous Canadian to graduate with a BA from a Canadian university and first Indigenous Canadian to earn a degree at McMaster University. 8
Annie Maude “Nan” McKay (Métis) Métis 1915 University of Saskatchewan First Indigenous woman to graduate with a BA from a Canadian university. Fourth Indigenous Canadian to graduate with a BA (Honours) from a Canadian university. She was also the University of Saskatchewan’s second Indigenous graduate. 9
Edgar Donald Lougheed (Métis) Métis 1920 University of Alberta Fifth Indigenous Canadian to graduate with a BA from a Canadian university and the first Indigenous Canadian to graduate from the University of Alberta. 10
Thomas James Jamieson (Mohawk) Mohawk 1921 McMaster University Sixth Indigenous Canadian to graduate with a BA from a Canadian university and the second Indigenous Canadian to graduate from McMaster University. 11
Gilbert Clarence Monture (Mohawk) Mohawk 1921 Queen’s University First Indigenous Canadian to graduate with a BSc (Mining and Metallurgy) from a Canadian University and the second Indigenous Canadian to graduate from Queen’s University. 12
Elmer Ernest Jamieson (Mohawk) Mohawk 1922 McMaster University First Indigenous Canadian to earn a graduate degree (an MA in Indigenous Education) from a Canadian university and first Indigenous Canadian to earn a graduate degree at McMaster University. 8
Edgar Donald Lougheed (Métis) Métis 1923 Dalhousie University First Indigenous Canadian to graduate with an LLB from a Canadian University and the first Indigenous Canadian to graduate from Dalhousie University. First university-trained Indigenous lawyer in Canada. 13
Thomas James Jamieson (Mohawk) Mohawk 1926 University of Toronto Second Indigenous Canadian to earn an MB (Bachelor of Medicine) from a Canadian University. 11
Elmer Ernest Jamieson (Mohawk) Mohawk 1928 ^ University of Toronto First Indigenous Canadian to earn a post-graduate doctoral degree (a DPed or Doctor of Pedagogy – equivalent to an EdD) from a Canadian university and first Indigenous Canadian to earn a doctoral degree at the University of Toronto. 8
Enos T. Monture (Montour) (Lenape or Delaware) Lenape or Delaware BD McGill University First Indigenous Canadian to earn a BD (Bachelor of Divinity) degree at a Canadian university. 14
Norman Saylor (Mohawk) Mohawk 1932 Université de Montréal Second Indigenous Canadian to graduate with an LLB from a Canadian University and the first Indigenous Canadian to graduate from the Université de Montréal. Second university-trained Indigenous lawyer in Canada. 15
Norman Lickers (Mohawk) Mohawk 1934 Western University (now known as University of Western Ontario) First Indigenous Canadian to earn a BA (Economics and Political Science) from Western University. Completed legal training at Osgoode Hall in 1938 and became third university-trained Indigenous lawyer in Canada and the first Status First Nations person to be called to the Bar in Canada. 16
Earl Saylor (Mohawk) Mohawk 1943 Loyola College (now Concordia University) First Indigenous Canadian to earn a BA in accounting. First Indigenous graduate of Loyola College (now Concordia University). 17
Frank Calder (Nisga’a) Nisga’a 1946 University of British Columbia First Indigenous Canadian to graduate from the University of British Columbia. 18
Jean-Henri Lagasse (Métis) Métis 1947 St. Boniface College (now University of Manitoba) First Indigenous Canadian to graduate with a BA from St. Boniface College (now the University of Manitoba). 19
John (Jack) Wesley Beaver (Mohawk) Mohawk 1949 Queen’s University First Indigenous Canadian to earn a university degree in electrical engineering. Second Indigenous Canadian to graduate with a BSc (Electrical Engineering) at a Canadian University. Third Indigenous graduate from Queen’s university. 17
Howard Adams (Métis) Métis 1950 University of British Columbia First Indigenous Canadian to earn a BA in sociology at a Canadian University. He was also the first Indigenous Canadian to earn a baccalaureate at the University of British Columbia and the second Indigenous Canadian to graduate from the University of British Columbia. 20
Clarence Saylor (Mohawk) Mohawk 1950 Fordham University (New York) First Indigenous Canadian to earn a degree (BA) in mathematics. 17
Peter Lougheed (Métis) Métis 1951 University of Alberta Second Indigenous Canadian to earn a BA at the University of Alberta. He went on to be a successful lawyer and the premier of Alberta from 1971-1985. 21
James Earl Prosper (Acadia) Acadia 1951 Nova Scotia Technical College (now Dalhousie University) First Indigenous Canadian to earn a BEng (Electrical) at a Canadian College or University. Second university-trained Indigenous engineer in Canada. 17
Léon Gros-Louis (Wendat) Wendat 1952 ^ Université Laval First Indigenous Canadian to earn a modern (6-8 year) MD at a Canadian University. He was also the first Indigenous person to graduate from the Université Laval with an MD. 17
Peter Lougheed (Métis) Métis 1952 University of Alberta Third Indigenous Canadian to graduate with an LLB at a Canadian university. First Indigenous law graduate of the University of Alberta. Admitted to the Alberta bar in 1955, becoming the fifth university-trained Indigenous lawyer in Canada 21
William Ivan Clarke Wuttunee (Cree) Cree 1952 University of Saskatchewan Fourth Indigenous Canadian to graduate with an LLB at a Canadian university. Admitted to the Saskatchewan bar in 1954, becoming the fourth university-trained Indigenous and second Status First Nations lawyer in Canada. 17 22
Ahab Spence (Cree) Cree 1952 University of Saskatchewan First Indigenous Canadian to earn a BA in theology at a Canadian University. 17
Vernon Wishart (Métis) Métis 1952 University of Alberta Second Indigenous Canadian to earn a BD (Bachelor of Divinity) degree at a Canadian university and the first to earn such a degree at the University of Alberta. 29 30
Norman Edgar Smith (Mohawk) Mohawk 1953 Sir George Williams College (now Concordia University) Third Indigenous Canadian to graduate with a BSc from a Canadian University and the first Indigenous Canadian to graduate from Sir George Williams College. 23
Peter Lougheed (Métis) Métis 1954 Harvard University Second Indigenous Canadian to earn a graduate degree at a North American university and first Indigenous Canadian to earn an MBA. 21
Georges R. Brosseau (Métis) Métis 1954 University of Alberta Fifth Indigenous Canadian to graduate with an LLB at a Canadian university. Third Indigenous graduate from the University of Alberta. He was called to the bar in 1955. 24
Marlene Brant Castellano (Mohawk) Mohawk 1955 Queen’s University First Indigenous Canadian to earn a BA (General) at Queen’s University. 25
Jean-Henri Lagasse (Métis) Métis 1956 Columbia University (New York) Third Indigenous Canadian to earn a graduate degree (MA, Sociology) at a North American university. Following his education at Columbia, Lagasse went on to serve as the director of the Canadian Citizenship Branch in Winnipeg and spearheaded the groundbreaking Manitoba Royal Commission on Indians and Métis. 19
Gloria Cranmer Webster (Kwakwaka’wakw) Kwakwaka’wakw 1956 University of British Columbia First Indigenous Canadian to receive a BA in anthropology and later became a leading Kwakwaka’wakw cultural advocate. 26
William Wishart (Métis) Métis 1956 University of Alberta Fourth Indigenous Canadian and first Métis Canadian to earn a BSc (Conservation Biology) at a Canadian university and first Indigenous Canadian to earn a BSc at the University of Alberta. 27
Norman Edgar Smith (Mohawk) Mohawk 1957 ^ McGill University Second Indigenous Canadian to earn a modern (6-8 year) MD at a Canadian University. 23
William Wishart (Métis) Métis 1958 University of Alberta First Indigenous Canadian to earn an MSc (Zoology) at a Canadian university and second to earn a graduate degree at a Canadian University. First to earn a graduate degree at a university in Western Canada. He was also the first Indigenous Canadian to earn a graduate degree in a STEM field. 28 29
Vernon Wishart (Métis) Métis 1958 Drew University (Baltimore) Fifth Indigenous Canadian to earn a graduate degree (MA in Divinity) at a North American university and first to earn a graduate degree in divinity. He went on to become a United Church minister, Old Testament scholar, and human rights activist. 29 30
Alfred Joseph Cooper (Anishinaabe) Anishinaabe 1958 ^ University of Ottawa Third Indigenous Canadian to earn a modern (6-8) year MD in Canada. Second Indigenous graduate from the University of Ottawa. [17, convocation year corrected] —
Marlene Brant Castellano (Mohawk) Mohawk 1959 University of Toronto First Indigenous woman to earn a graduate degree. Third Indigenous Canadian to earn a graduate degree (MSW – Masters of Social Work) at a Canadian university. She was the first Indigenous graduate with a master’s degree from the University of Toronto. 25
Claire (Philippe) Juneau (Innu) Innu 1959 Université de Montréal First Indigenous Canadian woman to earn a BSc (Nursing) at a Canadian University and second Indigenous graduate from the Université de Montréal. 17
Alfred J. Scow (Kwikwasut'inuxw Haxwa'mis) Kwikwasut'inuxw Haxwa'mis 1961 University of British Columbia Sixth Indigenous Canadian to earn an LLB. First Indigenous Canadian to graduate from the University of British Columbia law school; he later became BC’s first Indigenous lawyer and judge. 31
Donald B. Hill (Mohawk) Mohawk 1961 Ontario Agriculture College (now the University of Guelph) First Indigenous Canadian to earn a Bachelor of Agriculture Science (BAS, Agriculture Chemistry) degree. 17 32
Douglas Cardinal (Métis) Métis 1963 University of Texas (Austin) First Indigenous Canadian to earn a professional architecture degree (BArch). Became an internationally recognized architect. 33
Sydney Snow (Mohawk) Mohawk 1963 ^ University of Ottawa Fourth Indigenous Canadian to earn a modern (6-8 year) MD in Canada. Second Indigenous Canadian to earn a modern MD at the University of Ottawa. 17
Clare Clifton Brant (Mohawk) Mohawk 1965 ^ Queen’s University Fifth Indigenous Canadian to earn a modern (6-8 year) MD in Canada. First Indigenous Canadian to earn a modern MD from Queen’s University and Canada’s first Indigenous psychiatrist. 17
Howard Adams (Métis) Métis 1966 University of California (Berkeley) First Indigenous Canadian to earn a PhD (History of Education) at a North American university and second Indigenous Canadian to earn a doctoral degree. 20
Alec Brian Deer (Mohawk) Mohawk 1966 Sir George Williams College (now Concordia University) First Indigenous Canadian to earn a BSc in mathematics and to earn a mathematics degree at a Canadian university. Third Indigenous graduate from Concordia University. 34
Howard Adams (Métis) Métis 1966 University of Saskatchewan First Indigenous Canadian to be appointed as an associate professor at a Canadian University. Dr. Adams worked at the University of Saskatchewan’s College of Education from 1966-1975. He left to teach in the US in 1976. 20
Lillian Eva Dyck (Cree) Cree 1968 University of Saskatchewan First Indigenous Canadian to earn a BA in chemistry and second Indigenous woman to earn a university science degree in Canada. 35
Graydon Nicholas (Maliseet) Maliseet 1968 St. Francis Xavier University Second Indigenous Canadian to earn a BSc in mathematics. First Indigenous Canadian to graduate from St. Francis Xavier University. 36
Lillian Eva Dyck (Cree) Cree 1970 University of Saskatchewan First Indigenous woman to earn an MSc. Fourth Indigenous Canadian to earn graduate degree of any kind (MSc, Biochemistry) at a Canadian university. She was the second Indigenous Canadian to earn a graduate degree in a STEM field and the first Indigenous Canadian to earn a graduate degree at the University of Saskatchewan. 35
Marlene Brant Castellano (Mohawk) Mohawk 1971 ** Trent University First Indigenous Canadian to become an assistant professor at a Canadian University. Second Indigenous Canadian to become a faculty member at a Canadian University. Ms. Castellano joined the Native Studies department at Trent. 25
Graydon Nicholas (Maliseet) Maliseet 1971 University of New Brunswick Second Indigenous person to earn a law degree (LLB) in Atlantic Canada, and the first Indigenous graduate from the University of New Brunswick. 36
Carole D. Lavallee (Cree) Cree 1971 University of Saskatchewan First Indigenous person to earn an MEd at a Canadian university and second Indigenous Canadian to earn a graduate degree at the University of Saskatchewan. 17
Noah Carpenter (Inuit) Inuit 1971 ^ University of Manitoba First Inuit Canadian to earn a modern (6-8 year) MD at a Canadian university. First Indigenous Canadian to earn an MD at the University of Manitoba. 17
Vernon Wishart (Métis) Métis 1972 University of Alberta (St. Stephen’s College) Third Indigenous Canadian to hold a teaching appointment at a Canadian university. First Indigenous Canadian to become a lecturer (Old Testament Theology) at the University of Alberta. 37
Leroy Little Bear (Kainai/Blackfoot) Kainai/Blackfoot 1972 University of Lethbridge First Indigenous Canadian to graduate (BA) from the University of Lethbridge. 38
Beverly Greyeyes (Cree) Cree 1972 University of Calgary First Indigenous Canadian to graduate with a BSc in Computer Science and first Indigenous graduate from the University of Calgary. 17
Melvyn R. Lavallee 1972 ^ University of Saskatchewan First Status First Nations person to earn an MD in Western Canada. First Indigenous person to earn an MD at the University of Saskatchewan. 17
Marlene Brant Castellano (Mohawk) Mohawk 1973 ** Trent University First Indigenous Canadian to become a full professor (Native Studies) at a Canadian University. 25
Vernon Wishart (Métis) Métis 1974 University of Alberta First Indigenous Canadian to be appointed to a Canadian University Senate or to hold a governance position in a Canadian university. 39
Graydon Nicholas (Maliseet) Maliseet 1974 Wilfrid Laurier University Second Indigenous Canadian to earn an MSW (Masters of Social Work) at a Canadian university. First Indigenous Canadian to earn a graduate degree at Wilfrid Laurier University. 36
Cecil Reid (Bella Bella) Bella Bella 1974 University of British Columbia First Indigenous Canadian to earn a graduate degree (MEd) at the University of British Columbia. 17
Leroy Little Bear (Kainai/Blackfoot) Kainai/Blackfoot 1975 ^ University of Utah (Salt Lake City) First Indigenous Canadian to earn a professional JD (Juris Doctor). A JD is considered a professional degree or second-entry undergraduate degree, as opposed to a graduate degree. 40
Leroy Little Bear (Kainai/Blackfoot) Kainai/Blackfoot 1975 University of Lethbridge Second Indigenous Canadian to be appointed as an assistant professor at a Canadian University. Little Bear created the second Native or Native American Studies department in Canada. 41
Daniel Brant (Mohawk) Mohawk 1975 University of Waterloo Third Indigenous Canadian to earn an MSc (Civil Engineering) and first Indigenous Canadian to earn a graduate degree at the University of Waterloo. 17
Wilton Littlechild (Cree) Cree 1976 University of Alberta First Treaty First Nations person from Alberta to earn a law degree. Third Indigenous Canadian to earn a law degree from the University of Alberta. 42
Roberta Jamieson (Mohawk) Mohawk 1976 University of Western Ontario First Indigenous woman in Canada to earn a law degree. First Indigenous woman to graduate from the University of Western Ontario. She later became the first Indigenous woman appointed as the Ontario Ombudsman. 43
Marion Ironquill Meadmore (Ojibwe-Cree) Ojibwe-Cree 1977 University of Manitoba First Indigenous woman to earn a law degree in Manitoba and, in 1978, the first Indigenous woman called to the bar in Canada. 44
Florence Glanfield (Métis) Métis 1979 University of Alberta Third Indigenous Canadian to earn a BSc in mathematics at a Canadian university and first Indigenous woman to earn a degree in mathematics in Canada. Fourth Indigenous woman to earn an undergraduate degree in a STEM field in Canada. Second Indigenous Canadian to earn a BSc at the University of Alberta. 45
Verna J. Kirkness (Cree) Cree 1980 University of Manitoba Third Indigenous Canadian to receive an MEd in a Canadian university. First Indigenous Canadian to receive a graduate degree at the University of Manitoba. 46
Emma LaRoque (Métis) Métis 1980 University of Manitoba First Indigenous Canadian woman to earn an MA (History) at a Canadian university and second Indigenous Canadian to receive a graduate degree at the University of Manitoba. 47
Lillian Eva Dyck (Cree) Cree 1981 University of Saskatchewan Second Indigenous Canadian to earn a PhD and one of the first two to earn a PhD at a Canadian university. First Indigenous Canadian to earn a PhD in a STEM field (Biological Psychiatry). She was also the first Indigenous PhD graduate from the University of Saskatchewan. 35
Roland D. Chrisjohn (Oneida) Oneida 1981 University of Western Ontario Third Indigenous Canadian to earn a PhD (Psychology) and one of the first two to earn a PhD at a Canadian university. Second Indigenous Canadian to earn a PhD in a STEM field. First Indigenous PhD graduate from the University of Western Ontario. 48
Verna J. Kirkness (Cree) Cree 1981 University of British Columbia Third Indigenous Canadian to be appointed as an assistant professor (Indigenous languages and education) in a Canadian university. First Indigenous Canadian to be appointed as an assistant professor at the University of British Columbia. 49
Thomas Dignan (Mohawk) Mohawk 1981 ^ McMaster University First Indigenous Canadian to graduate from McMaster University with an MD. 50
David Wishart (Métis) Métis 1983 University of Alberta First Indigenous Canadian to earn a BSc in physics (First Class Honours). Third Indigenous Canadian to earn a BSc at the University of Alberta. 51
Ian Wishart (Métis) Métis 1987 ^ University of Alberta First Indigenous Canadian to earn an MD from the University of Alberta. 52
Cornelia Wieman (Anishinaabe) Anishinaabe 1988 University of Waterloo First Indigenous Canadian to graduate with a BSc (Kinesiology) from the University of Waterloo 53
Mary Ann Corbiere (Anishinaabe) Anishinaabe 1989 University of Sudbury First Indigenous Canadian to be appointed as an assistant professor (Indigenous Languages) at the University of Sudbury. Fourth Indigenous Canadian to be appointed as an assistant professor at a Canadian university. 54
Stanley Vollant (Innu) Innu 1989 ^ Université de Montréal First Indigenous Canadian to earn a specialist diploma in general surgery (1994). Canada’s and Québec’s first Indigenous surgeon. 55
E. Richart Atleo (Ahousaht) Ahousaht 1990 ^ University of British Columbia First Status First Nations Canadian from British Columbia to earn a post-graduate doctoral degree (EdD). 56
David Wishart (Métis) Métis 1991 Yale University (New Haven) Fourth Indigenous Canadian to earn a PhD and third to earn a PhD in a STEM field (Molecular Biophysics and Biochemistry). 57
Georges E. Sioui (Wendat) Wendat 1991 Université Laval Second Indigenous Canadian to earn a History PhD and fourth to earn a PhD at a Canadian University. First Indigenous Canadian to graduate with a PhD from Université Laval. 58
John Borrows (Anishinaabe) Anishinaabe 1992 University of British Columbia First Indigenous Canadian appointed as an assistant professor in law. Inaugural director of UBC’s First National Legal Studies program. 59
Madeleine Dion Stout (Cree) Cree 1993 Carleton University First Indigenous Canadian to receive an MA (International Affairs) at Carleton University. Taught Indigenous Health and Canadian Studies. First Indigenous person to teach Indigenous health in Canada. 60
Janet Smylie (Métis) Métis 1993 Queen’s University One of the first two Indigenous woman to earn a modern, 6-8 year MD in Canada. First Indigenous woman to graduate with a modern MD from Queen’s University 61
Eldon Yellowhorn (Piegan) Piegan 1993 Simon Fraser University First Indigenous Canadian to receive an SFU graduate degree in archaeology (MA). 62
Jean Becker (Inuk) Inuk 1993 University of Guelph First Indigenous Canadian to receive an MA from the University of Guelph. 63
Cornelia Wieman (Anishinaabe) Anishinaabe 1993 McMaster University One of the first two Indigenous woman to earn a modern, 6-8 year MD in Canada. She was also the second Indigenous person to graduate from McMaster University with an MD. 53
David Wishart (Métis) Métis 1995 University of Alberta First Indigenous Canadian to be appointed as an assistant professor in a Faculty of Pharmacy in North America. First Indigenous Canadian to become an assistant professor at the University of Alberta. 51
Lillian Eva Dyck (Cree) Cree 1996 University of Saskatchewan First Indigenous Canadian to be appointed as a full professor in a STEM field (Biological Psychiatry) at a Canadian university. Second Indigenous Canadian to be appointed as a full professor at Canadian university. Second Indigenous Canadian to be appointed to a faculty position at the University of Saskatchewan. 35
Nadine Caron (Anishinaabe/Ojibwe) Anishinaabe/Ojibwe 1997 * University of British Columbia Third Indigenous woman to earn a modern, 6-8 year MD in Canada. She was also the first Indigenous person to graduate from the University of British Columbia with an MD. First female Indigenous general surgeon in Canada. 64
Sharon H. Venne (Cree) Cree 1997 University of Alberta First Indigenous Canadian to complete an LLM in Canada. First Indigenous graduate of the University of Alberta’s Master of Laws program. 65
Edward Doolittle (Mohawk) Mohawk 1997 University of Toronto First Indigenous Canadian to earn a PhD in Mathematics (Partial Differential Equations) at a Canadian university. Fourth Indigenous Canadian to earn a PhD in a STEM field. 66
Jo-ann Archibald (Sto:lo) Sto:lo 1997 Simon Fraser University First Indigenous Canadian to earn a PhD (Education) at Simon Fraser University. 67
Lee D. Wilson (Métis) Métis 1998 University of Saskatchewan First Indigenous Canadian to earn a PhD in Chemistry (Physical Chemistry) at a Canadian university. 68
Lloyd James Dempsey (Kii'tsimoni) Kii'tsimoni 1998 University of Alberta First Indigenous Canadian to be appointed as an associate professor (Native Studies) at the University of Alberta. Second Indigenous Canadian to be appointed as an associate professor at a Canadian university. 69
Eldon Yellowhorn (Piegan) Piegan 2002 Simon Fraser University First Indigenous Canadian to join SFU as an assistant professor (First Nations Studies). 62
David Wishart (Métis) Métis 2003 University of Alberta First Indigenous male and third Indigenous Canadian to be appointed as a full professor at a Canadian University. First Indigenous Canadian to be appointed as a full professor in a computing science department at a Canadian University. First Indigenous Canadian to be appointed as a full professor at the University of Alberta. 51 57
Duncan Cree (Mohawk) Mohawk 2009 Concordia University First Indigenous Canadian to earn a PhD in Engineering (Mechanical) at a Canadian university. First Indigenous person to earn a PhD at Concordia University. 70
Michael Anthony Hart (Cree) Cree 2012 University of Manitoba First Indigenous Canadian to hold a Canada Research Chair (CRC). He held the CRC in Indigenous Knowledges and Social Work from 2012 to 2018. 71
Heather Igloliorte (Inuk) Inuk 2012 Concordia University The first Indigenous Canadian to be appointed as an assistant professor at Concordia University. In 2014 she was named as Canada’s first university research chair focused on Indigenous art history and community partnership. 72
Florence Glanfield (Métis) Métis 2013 University of Alberta Fourth Indigenous Canadian to be appointed as a full professor (Mathematics Education) at a Canadian University. Second Indigenous Canadian to be appointed as a full professor at the University of Alberta. 73
Michele Johnson (Syilx) Syilx 2013 University of British Columbia - Okanagan One of UBC Okanagan’s first Indigenous PhD (Interdisciplinary Studies) graduates. 74
Marlowe Sam (Wenatchi) Wenatchi 2013 University of British Columbia - Okanagan One of UBC Okanagan’s first Indigenous PhD (Interdisciplinary Studies) graduates. 75
John Borrows (Anishinaabe) Anishinaabe 2014 University of Victoria First Indigenous Canadian to be awarded a Tier 1 Canada Research Chair. First Indigenous Canadian CRC appointee at the University of Victoria. 59
Christopher Mushquash (Anishinaabe) Anishinaabe 2015 Lakehead University Third Indigenous Canadian to be awarded a Canada Research Chair and second to hold a Tier 2 CRC award. First Indigenous CRC appointee at Lakehead University. 76
Naiomi Metallic (Mi’gmaq) Mi’gmaq 2016 Dalhousie University Canada’s first and Dalhousie’s first Chancellor’s Chair in Aboriginal Law and Policy. 77
Gerald McMaster (Plains Cree) Plains Cree 2016 OCAD University Fourth Indigenous Canadian to hold a Canada Research Chair. First Indigenous CRC appointee at OCAD University. 78
Michael Anthony Hart (Cree) Cree 2018 University of Calgary First Indigenous Canadian appointed to be a university Vice-Provost (Indigenous Engagement). He is the University of Calgary’s first Indigenous academic to take on an executive role. 79
Kim Anderson (Métis) Métis 2018 University of Guelph First Indigenous woman to hold a Tier 2 Canada Research Chair. First Indigenous CRC appointee at the University of Guelph. 80
David Wishart (Métis) Métis 2018 University of Alberta First Indigenous Canadian to be appointed as a Distinguished Professor or a University Professor (Biological Sciences and Computing Science) at any university in Canada. 57
Chelsea Benally (Navajo) Navajo 2018 University of Alberta Second Indigenous person to earn a PhD in engineering in Canada and only the second Indigenous woman to earn a PhD in a STEM field. First Indigenous person to earn a PhD in Engineering at the University of Alberta. 81
Kiera Ladner (Cree) Cree 2018 University of Manitoba First Indigenous Canadian woman to hold a Tier 1 Canada Research Chair. Second Indigenous CRC appointee at the University of Manitoba. 82
Santee Smith (Tekaronhiáhkhwa) Tekaronhiáhkhwa 2019 McMaster University First Indigenous Canadian to be named a Chancellor at a Canadian university. First Indigenous person to hold McMaster University’s highest ceremonial office. 83
Florence Glanfield (Métis) Métis 2019 University of Alberta First Indigenous Canadian to be appointed to a Vice-Provost position at the University of Alberta (inaugural Vice-Provost, Indigenous Programming and Research). 72
Catherine L. Cook (Métis) Métis 2020 University of Manitoba First Indigenous Canadian to become a Vice-President (Indigenous Affairs) at a Canadian university. 84
Janet Smylie (Métis) Métis 2020 University of Toronto First Indigenous CRC appointment at the University of Toronto. 85
Jan Hare (Anishinaabe) Anishinaabe 2020 University of British Columbia First Indigenous CRC appointment at the University of British Columbia. 86
Shalene Jobin (Métis) Métis 2020 University of Alberta First Indigenous CRC appointment at the University of Alberta. 87
Pierrot Ross-Tremblay (Innu) Innu 2020 University of Ottawa First Indigenous CRC appointment at the University of Ottawa. 88
Jessica Kolopenuk (Cree) Cree 2020 University of Victoria First Indigenous Canadian to earn a PhD (Political Science) at the University of Victoria. 89
Christy R. Bressette (Anishinaabe) Anishinaabe 2021 Western University First Indigenous Canadian to serve as Vice-Provost and Associate Vice-President (Indigenous Initiatives) at Western University. 90
Murray Sinclair (Anishinaabe) Anishinaabe 2021 Queen’s University Second Indigenous Canadian to be named a Chancellor at a Canadian university. First Indigenous person to hold this university’s highest ceremonial office. 91
Claudette Commanda (Anishinaabe) Anishinaabe 2022 University of Ottawa Third Indigenous Canadian to be named a Chancellor at a Canadian university. First Indigenous person to hold this university’s highest ceremonial office. 92
Heather Igloliorte (Inuk) Inuk 2023 University of Victoria First Indigenous Canadian to be appointed to a Canada Excellence Research Chair (Decolonial and Transformational Indigenous Art Practices). Second Indigenous Canadian to hold a faculty position at the University of Victoria. 93
Kiera Ladner (Cree) Cree 2023 University of Manitoba Second Indigenous Canadian to be appointed as a University or Distinguished Professor in Canada, First Indigenous Canadian to be appointed as a University Professor at the University of Manitoba. 94
Jo-ann Archibald (Sto:lo) Sto:lo 2024 University of the Fraser Valley Fourth Indigenous Canadian to be a Chancellor at a Canadian university. First Indigenous person to hold this university’s highest ceremonial office. 67
John Borrows (Anishinaabe) Anishinaabe 2026 University of Toronto Third Indigenous Canadian to be appointed as a University or Distinguished Professor in Canada. First Indigenous Canadian to be appointed as a University Professor at the University of Toronto. 59

River of time

The wider the ribbon, the more milestones were recorded that year.

  1. Peter Edmund Jones – Kahkewaquonaby (Mississauga Ojibwe) — 1866 — Queen’s College (Now Queen’s University)
  2. Oronhyatekha (Peter Martin; Mohawk) — 1866 — University of Toronto
  3. Oronhyatekha (Peter Martin; Mohawk) — 1867 — University of Toronto
  4. George Edward Bomberry (Cayuga) — 1875 — McGill University
  5. Reginald William Gunn (Métis) — 1880 — Manitoba College (now University of Manitoba)
  6. Thomas Daniel Green (Mohawk) — 1882 — McGill University
  7. Robert Bird Steinhauer (Cree) — 1887 — Victoria College (now University of Toronto)
  8. Edward Ahenakew (Cree) — 1912 — Emmanuel College (now part of the University of Saskatchewan)
  9. Elmer Ernest Jamieson (Mohawk) — 1913 — McMaster University
  10. Annie Maude “Nan” McKay (Métis) — 1915 — University of Saskatchewan
  11. Edgar Donald Lougheed (Métis) — 1920 — University of Alberta
  12. Thomas James Jamieson (Mohawk) — 1921 — McMaster University
  13. Gilbert Clarence Monture (Mohawk) — 1921 — Queen’s University
  14. Elmer Ernest Jamieson (Mohawk) — 1922 — McMaster University
  15. Edgar Donald Lougheed (Métis) — 1923 — Dalhousie University
  16. Thomas James Jamieson (Mohawk) — 1926 — University of Toronto
  17. Elmer Ernest Jamieson (Mohawk) — 1928 — University of Toronto
  18. Norman Saylor (Mohawk) — 1932 — Université de Montréal
  19. Norman Lickers (Mohawk) — 1934 — Western University (now known as University of Western Ontario)
  20. Earl Saylor (Mohawk) — 1943 — Loyola College (now Concordia University)
  21. Frank Calder (Nisga’a) — 1946 — University of British Columbia
  22. Jean-Henri Lagasse (Métis) — 1947 — St. Boniface College (now University of Manitoba)
  23. John (Jack) Wesley Beaver (Mohawk) — 1949 — Queen’s University
  24. Howard Adams (Métis) — 1950 — University of British Columbia
  25. Clarence Saylor (Mohawk) — 1950 — Fordham University (New York)
  26. Peter Lougheed (Métis) — 1951 — University of Alberta
  27. James Earl Prosper (Acadia) — 1951 — Nova Scotia Technical College (now Dalhousie University)
  28. Léon Gros-Louis (Wendat) — 1952 — Université Laval
  29. Peter Lougheed (Métis) — 1952 — University of Alberta
  30. William Ivan Clarke Wuttunee (Cree) — 1952 — University of Saskatchewan
  31. Ahab Spence (Cree) — 1952 — University of Saskatchewan
  32. Vernon Wishart (Métis) — 1952 — University of Alberta
  33. Norman Edgar Smith (Mohawk) — 1953 — Sir George Williams College (now Concordia University)
  34. Peter Lougheed (Métis) — 1954 — Harvard University
  35. Georges R. Brosseau (Métis) — 1954 — University of Alberta
  36. Marlene Brant Castellano (Mohawk) — 1955 — Queen’s University
  37. Jean-Henri Lagasse (Métis) — 1956 — Columbia University (New York)
  38. Gloria Cranmer Webster (Kwakwaka’wakw) — 1956 — University of British Columbia
  39. William Wishart (Métis) — 1956 — University of Alberta
  40. Norman Edgar Smith (Mohawk) — 1957 — McGill University
  41. William Wishart (Métis) — 1958 — University of Alberta
  42. Vernon Wishart (Métis) — 1958 — Drew University (Baltimore)
  43. Alfred Joseph Cooper (Anishinaabe) — 1958 — University of Ottawa
  44. Marlene Brant Castellano (Mohawk) — 1959 — University of Toronto
  45. Claire (Philippe) Juneau (Innu) — 1959 — Université de Montréal
  46. Alfred J. Scow (Kwikwasut'inuxw Haxwa'mis) — 1961 — University of British Columbia
  47. Donald B. Hill (Mohawk) — 1961 — Ontario Agriculture College (now the University of Guelph)
  48. Douglas Cardinal (Métis) — 1963 — University of Texas (Austin)
  49. Sydney Snow (Mohawk) — 1963 — University of Ottawa
  50. Clare Clifton Brant (Mohawk) — 1965 — Queen’s University
  51. Howard Adams (Métis) — 1966 — University of California (Berkeley)
  52. Alec Brian Deer (Mohawk) — 1966 — Sir George Williams College (now Concordia University)
  53. Howard Adams (Métis) — 1966 — University of Saskatchewan
  54. Lillian Eva Dyck (Cree) — 1968 — University of Saskatchewan
  55. Graydon Nicholas (Maliseet) — 1968 — St. Francis Xavier University
  56. Lillian Eva Dyck (Cree) — 1970 — University of Saskatchewan
  57. Marlene Brant Castellano (Mohawk) — 1971 — Trent University
  58. Graydon Nicholas (Maliseet) — 1971 — University of New Brunswick
  59. Carole D. Lavallee (Cree) — 1971 — University of Saskatchewan
  60. Noah Carpenter (Inuit) — 1971 — University of Manitoba
  61. Vernon Wishart (Métis) — 1972 — University of Alberta (St. Stephen’s College)
  62. Leroy Little Bear (Kainai/Blackfoot) — 1972 — University of Lethbridge
  63. Beverly Greyeyes (Cree) — 1972 — University of Calgary
  64. Melvyn R. Lavallee — 1972 — University of Saskatchewan
  65. Marlene Brant Castellano (Mohawk) — 1973 — Trent University
  66. Vernon Wishart (Métis) — 1974 — University of Alberta
  67. Graydon Nicholas (Maliseet) — 1974 — Wilfrid Laurier University
  68. Cecil Reid (Bella Bella) — 1974 — University of British Columbia
  69. Leroy Little Bear (Kainai/Blackfoot) — 1975 — University of Utah (Salt Lake City)
  70. Leroy Little Bear (Kainai/Blackfoot) — 1975 — University of Lethbridge
  71. Daniel Brant (Mohawk) — 1975 — University of Waterloo
  72. Wilton Littlechild (Cree) — 1976 — University of Alberta
  73. Roberta Jamieson (Mohawk) — 1976 — University of Western Ontario
  74. Marion Ironquill Meadmore (Ojibwe-Cree) — 1977 — University of Manitoba
  75. Florence Glanfield (Métis) — 1979 — University of Alberta
  76. Verna J. Kirkness (Cree) — 1980 — University of Manitoba
  77. Emma LaRoque (Métis) — 1980 — University of Manitoba
  78. Lillian Eva Dyck (Cree) — 1981 — University of Saskatchewan
  79. Roland D. Chrisjohn (Oneida) — 1981 — University of Western Ontario
  80. Verna J. Kirkness (Cree) — 1981 — University of British Columbia
  81. Thomas Dignan (Mohawk) — 1981 — McMaster University
  82. David Wishart (Métis) — 1983 — University of Alberta
  83. Ian Wishart (Métis) — 1987 — University of Alberta
  84. Cornelia Wieman (Anishinaabe) — 1988 — University of Waterloo
  85. Mary Ann Corbiere (Anishinaabe) — 1989 — University of Sudbury
  86. Stanley Vollant (Innu) — 1989 — Université de Montréal
  87. E. Richart Atleo (Ahousaht) — 1990 — University of British Columbia
  88. David Wishart (Métis) — 1991 — Yale University (New Haven)
  89. Georges E. Sioui (Wendat) — 1991 — Université Laval
  90. John Borrows (Anishinaabe) — 1992 — University of British Columbia
  91. Madeleine Dion Stout (Cree) — 1993 — Carleton University
  92. Janet Smylie (Métis) — 1993 — Queen’s University
  93. Eldon Yellowhorn (Piegan) — 1993 — Simon Fraser University
  94. Jean Becker (Inuk) — 1993 — University of Guelph
  95. Cornelia Wieman (Anishinaabe) — 1993 — McMaster University
  96. David Wishart (Métis) — 1995 — University of Alberta
  97. Lillian Eva Dyck (Cree) — 1996 — University of Saskatchewan
  98. Nadine Caron (Anishinaabe/Ojibwe) — 1997 — University of British Columbia
  99. Sharon H. Venne (Cree) — 1997 — University of Alberta
  100. Edward Doolittle (Mohawk) — 1997 — University of Toronto
  101. Jo-ann Archibald (Sto:lo) — 1997 — Simon Fraser University
  102. Lee D. Wilson (Métis) — 1998 — University of Saskatchewan
  103. Lloyd James Dempsey (Kii'tsimoni) — 1998 — University of Alberta
  104. Eldon Yellowhorn (Piegan) — 2002 — Simon Fraser University
  105. David Wishart (Métis) — 2003 — University of Alberta
  106. Duncan Cree (Mohawk) — 2009 — Concordia University
  107. Michael Anthony Hart (Cree) — 2012 — University of Manitoba
  108. Heather Igloliorte (Inuk) — 2012 — Concordia University
  109. Florence Glanfield (Métis) — 2013 — University of Alberta
  110. Michele Johnson (Syilx) — 2013 — University of British Columbia - Okanagan
  111. Marlowe Sam (Wenatchi) — 2013 — University of British Columbia - Okanagan
  112. John Borrows (Anishinaabe) — 2014 — University of Victoria
  113. Christopher Mushquash (Anishinaabe) — 2015 — Lakehead University
  114. Naiomi Metallic (Mi’gmaq) — 2016 — Dalhousie University
  115. Gerald McMaster (Plains Cree) — 2016 — OCAD University
  116. Michael Anthony Hart (Cree) — 2018 — University of Calgary
  117. Kim Anderson (Métis) — 2018 — University of Guelph
  118. David Wishart (Métis) — 2018 — University of Alberta
  119. Chelsea Benally (Navajo) — 2018 — University of Alberta
  120. Kiera Ladner (Cree) — 2018 — University of Manitoba
  121. Santee Smith (Tekaronhiáhkhwa) — 2019 — McMaster University
  122. Florence Glanfield (Métis) — 2019 — University of Alberta
  123. Catherine L. Cook (Métis) — 2020 — University of Manitoba
  124. Janet Smylie (Métis) — 2020 — University of Toronto
  125. Jan Hare (Anishinaabe) — 2020 — University of British Columbia
  126. Shalene Jobin (Métis) — 2020 — University of Alberta
  127. Pierrot Ross-Tremblay (Innu) — 2020 — University of Ottawa
  128. Jessica Kolopenuk (Cree) — 2020 — University of Victoria
  129. Christy R. Bressette (Anishinaabe) — 2021 — Western University
  130. Murray Sinclair (Anishinaabe) — 2021 — Queen’s University
  131. Claudette Commanda (Anishinaabe) — 2022 — University of Ottawa
  132. Heather Igloliorte (Inuk) — 2023 — University of Victoria
  133. Kiera Ladner (Cree) — 2023 — University of Manitoba
  134. Jo-ann Archibald (Sto:lo) — 2024 — University of the Fraser Valley
  135. John Borrows (Anishinaabe) — 2026 — University of Toronto
  136. Enos T. Monture (Montour) (Lenape or Delaware) — BD — McGill University

Constellation

Each point is a pioneer. Two pioneers are joined when they studied at the same institution.

Map

Markers are placed at the city each institution is in. Positions are approximate.

How to read this list

The markers beside a credential link to the note that explains it. The full notes are on the Scope & Methodology page.

  • * — Prior to 1920, most MDs awarded in Canada were 1 or 2-year professional apprenticeships and were considered vocational degrees.
  • ^ — MDs, LLBs and JDs are formally considered as post-Baccalaureate professional degrees, not graduate or post-graduate degrees.
  • ** — Professor Brant Castellano did post-graduate work at the Ontario Institute for Studies in Education (OISE) from 1980-81, but contrary to some unofficial biographies, she never earned a PhD. She has, however, received numerous honorary doctorates from Queen's, St. Thomas and Carleton Universities. For further official biographical information see: https://www.trentu.ca/newsarchive/daily/archive/050221brantcastellano.html (accessed 7 October 2026).

Sources

Type at least two characters.

Press / to search Search