Indigenous News - College of Medicine | University of Saskatchewan

Indigenous Achievement Week: Celebrating three exceptional College of Medicine Learners

The College of Medicine is proud to celebrate Cameron Bird, Sheila Naytowhow, and Terri Thunder, who were honoured with USask Indigenous Achievement Week (IAW) Awards. These awards recognize the outstanding accomplishments of Indigenous students at USask and were celebrated at the awards ceremony on March 13. To further highlight their achievements, we asked Cameron, Sheila and Terri a few questions about their award and to provide words of advice to other Indigenous students pursuing similar fields of study.

Innovative Hepatitis C Roadmap aims to boost access to care in the Prairies

A new evidence-based resource has been launched to help eliminate hepatitis C as a public health threat in the Prairie provinces.

Renowned USask researcher named Canadian Academy of Health Sciences fellow

A top University of Saskatchewan (USask) health researcher renowned for her work in Indigenous wellness is now a fellow of the Canadian Academy of Health Sciences (CAHS).

Students honoured with Indigenous Student Achievement Awards

Three learners from the College of Medicine and the School of Rehabilitation Science were recognized at the University of Saskatchewan (USask) Indigenous Student Achievement Awards Ceremony on March 6.

IAW 2024: Putting community first

Each year, the University of Saskatchewan (USask) recognizes the achievements of Métis, First Nations and Inuit students, staff, faculty and alumni during Indigenous Achievement Week (IAW). The College of Graduate and Postdoctoral Studies (CGPS) is proud to celebrate two exceptional graduate students receiving Indigenous Student Achievement Awards this week: Nathan Oakes (Department of Community Health and Epidemiology) and Doris Wesaquate (College of Kinesiology).

Remote Rehabilitation: Dr. Stacey Lovo’s Quest for Equitable Care

It was a bitterly cold day in December 2012, when two First Nation women from northern Saskatchewan stepped off the bus in Saskatoon. One had travelled 12 hours, the other seven, both to see physiotherapist Dr. Stacey Lovo (PhD) for back pain.

Dr. Wendie Marks: Researching the complex connections between stress, nutrition, and health

By the end of grade eight, Dr. Wendie Marks (PhD) was sure about one thing: she knew she wanted to study health and the way early-life development affected the human body.

New Department of Indigenous Health and Wellness approved at USask College of Medicine

The University of Saskatchewan’s (USask) College of Medicine is creating a first of its kind department in a Canadian medical school, dedicated to improving the health outcomes of Indigenous Peoples in Saskatchewan through academics and education.

New USask Indigenous health department first of its kind in Canada

New USask research chair focuses on improving Indigenous children’s wellness

Newly appointed Tier 2 Canada Research Chair (CRC) Dr. Wendie Marks (PhD) at the University of Saskatchewan (USask) is investigating links between obesity in Indigenous children and their exposure to environmental factors during pre-conception, prenatal, or early postpartum periods.

Combating diabetes using community strengths, aided by USask research

SASKATOON – A University of Saskatchewan (USask) research team is working directly with Indigenous communities throughout Saskatchewan to improve methods for preventing Type 2 diabetes.

Renewed support for Cameco Chair in Indigenous Health and Wellness at USask

Since 2017, the Cameco Chair in Indigenous Health and Wellness at the University of Saskatchewan’s (USask) College of Medicine has carried out extensive and innovative research to improve the health outcomes of Indigenous people in Canada. A new commitment of $1.25 million from the Royal University Hospital Foundation (RUHF) will ensure that work continues for an additional five years.

USask researchers receive $7 million in CIHR funding

Research on new ovarian and pancreatic cancer diagnostics and therapeutics among the projects to receive funding.

Leader in Indigenizing research recognized with USask honorary degree

A Sixties’ Scoop survivor who has endured racism and trauma, Sharon Jinkerson-Brass never imagined she would one day walk across a stage to receive an honorary doctorate.

Scratching That Itch: Dr. Rachel Asiniwasis Targets Atopic Dermatitis

When Dr. Rachel Asiniwasis (MD) returned to the prairies after her dermatology residency in Toronto, she noticed a pattern among many of her pediatric patients. Hundreds of them were coming to her with itchy, raw patches of skin, the result of atopic dermatitis — eczema.

USask graduate student passionate about community engagement

A graduate student at the University of Saskatchewan's College of Medicine has been recognized for community engagement at the Indigenous Student Achievement Awards Ceremony.

Medical students honoured with Indigenous Student Achievement Awards

Two medical students from the University of Saskatchewan’s College of Medicine were honoured at the Indigenous Student Achievement Awards Ceremony on March 9.

Meet the College of Medicine’s newest team

The Office of the Vice-Dean Indigenous Health (OVDIH) has been established at the USask College of Medicine, and its team of four are busy moving forward with the creation of a new Department of Indigenous Health and Wellness, and advancing Indigenous health strategies.

A place of dialogue and healing

North West Family Medicine residents visit former residential school site

Creating programs that make a difference motivates Thunderchild

Harvey Thunderchild’s life path has been a fascinating journey. It has taken him across Canada and into the United States, and most recently has led him to his new position as the cultural coordinator in the Office of the Vice-Dean Indigenous Health and Wellness at the USask College of Medicine.

Pewaseskwan at USask supports Nehiyawak (Cree) language and culture revitalization on Saskatchewan First Nation

Nehiyawak (Cree) language echoes through the auditorium at Sakāskohc High School on Onion Lake Cree Nation (OLCN) on a cold December evening. Four male Elders sit in armchairs at the front of the auditorium taking turns sharing knowledge, memories, and language. Their stories are being recorded for others in the community to access and they will be archived for future generations.

Building an Indigenous space in the College of Medicine

Dr. Janet Tootoosis (MD) has a challenge ahead of her to establish the foundation of an administrative home for Indigenous Health in the College of Medicine (CoM).

Decolonizing institutional approaches to research from the inside

King is changing the way research is done with First Nations, Métis and Inuit communities

National Day for Truth and Reconciliation: Message from Dean Preston Smith

September 30 is the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation.

Class of 2024 Begins their MPT Journey

The School of Rehabilitation Science welcomed 40 new students into the Master of Physical Therapy (MPT) program on August 24.

USask alum named president of Canadian Medical Association

On August 21, 2022, University of Saskatchewan (USask) alum Dr. Alika Lafontaine (MD’06) was named president of the Canadian Medical Association, and is the first Indigenous leader and the youngest person ever to hold the prestigious position.

Pewaseskwan at USask to work with The Key First Nation and Yorkton Tribal Council on researching heart disease and Kennedy’s Disease

Pewaseskwan Indigenous Wellness Research Group (pewaseskwan) at the University of Saskatchewan (USask) has partnered with The Key First Nation and the Yorkton Tribal Council to support research on heart disease and spinal-bulbar muscular atrophy (SBMA), also known as Kennedy’s Disease.

Interim Vice-Dean Indigenous Health ‘optimistic’ in developing new division

Building a new division in the University of Saskatchewan (USask) College of Medicine will be challenging, but it’s an aspect of the new role Dr. Janet Tootoosis (MD’99) is anticipating.

Patient-oriented research in Saskatchewan receives $25.2 million in support

The Saskatchewan Centre for Patient-Oriented Research (SCPOR) based from the University of Saskatchewan (USask) has entered a second phase of operation, thanks to a $12.6-million grant from the Canadian Institutes of Health Research (CIHR) and matching funds provided by a group of partners.

Pewaseskwan at USask signs MOU with SFNWC to support research with Indigenous women

The Saskatchewan First Nations Women’s Commission (SFNWC) at the Federation of Sovereign Indigenous Nations (FSIN) and pewaseskwan—the Indigenous Wellness Research Group (IWRG) at the University of Saskatchewan (USask)—are signing a memorandum of understanding on June 24 to commemorate the start of a research alliance.

USask Métis medical student realizing lifelong dream of becoming family physician

Since she was a kid, Hanna Dunnigan has always had an internal drive to help people.

New project studying connection between Indigenous mental health and housing promises to help people in Saskatchewan and abroad

Shortly after Dr. Jim Dosman (MD) came to the College of Medicine in 1975, he began studying the link between farm dust and lung health.

Vice-Dean Indigenous Health position created at USask College of Medicine

The College of Medicine at the University of Saskatchewan (USask) has hired its first vice-dean Indigenous Health. The position was created to bring Indigenous health and issues more fully to the forefront in college priorities, while also serving to improve how these critical areas are addressed.

'I'm Going To Do This': with Dr. Veronica McKinney

When Veronica McKinney was a little girl, she vividly remembers going to the Saskatoon Public Library, borrowing a Time-Life book about the human body.

USask researchers collaborate with Indigenous communities to address health inequities with new federal funding

Two University of Saskatchewan (USask) research teams have been awarded more than $2.8 million in federal funding to address systemic inequities in the lives of Indigenous people in the areas of home life, mental and sexual health.

How a summer research project with pewaseskwan turned my curiosity into a passion

When I was presented with the opportunity to do a 2021 Dean’s Summer Research Project with Dr. Alexandra King (MD) and her research team, pewaseskwan – the Indigenous Wellness Research Group, I did not understand the extent of the wonderful experience that was in store for me.

The importance of meaningful, community-led research projects

This past summer, I had the privilege of participating in a community-based participatory research project with the pewaseskwan (The Sky is Clearing) research group.

Supporting mental health in northern Saskatchewan communities during COVID-19

In Saskatchewan’s northern communities, COVID-19 has exacerbated the gaps in health care, including mental health. This became even more apparent during the pandemic with overall levels of stress increasing.

Pewaseskwan at USask signs MOU with FSIN to create research alliance

The Federation of Sovereign Indigenous Nations (FSIN) and pewaseskwan—the Indigenous Wellness Research Group (IWRG) at the University of Saskatchewan (USask)—have signed a memorandum of understanding on Nov. 23 to commemorate the start of a research alliance.

Upcoming conference on HIV and hepatitis C vital to addressing rising rates in Saskatchewan

Pewaseskwan - the Indigenous Wellness Research Group based in the University of Saskatchewan (USask) College of Medicine, is hosting the Sask Stories Provincial Conference on HIV and Hepatitis C Wise/Promising Practices on November 25 and 26, 2021.

Indigenous virtual conference to highlight lessons learned from COVID-19 to address viral hepatitis

The organizing committee of the World Indigenous Peoples’ Conference on Viral Hepatitis is hosting a virtual conference about lessons learned from the COVID-19 pandemic by global Indigenous communities that are also impacted by viral hepatitis.

USask researchers awarded more than $4.45 million for six health-related projects

A pair of University of Saskatchewan (USask) researchers will receive in excess of $2.4 million for two projects using Indigenous ways of being and doing to influence change in the justice system and delivery of mental health and addictions services.

USask researcher named a fellow of the Royal Society of Canada

University of Saskatchewan (USask) researcher Dr. Malcolm King (PhD) has been named a fellow in one of Canada’s oldest and most prestigious national institutions.

Number of First Nations people living with IBD in Saskatchewan has doubled

SASKATOON – The number of First Nations people in Saskatchewan living with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) more than doubled from 1999 to 2016, according to research recently published by University of Saskatchewan (USask) community health and epidemiology researchers.

Grant funds community-engaged diabetes research

A College of Medicine research team is improving health care for individuals with diabetes in Regina and nearby Indigenous communities, thanks to a Research Connections grant from the Saskatchewan Health Research Foundation.

First Indigenous neurologist graduates from Saskatchewan

One of the country’s newest neurologists is Dr. Landon Perlett (MD’15), a Métis man from rural Saskatchewan. He is also the first Indigenous neurologist to graduate from the College of Medicine.

President's Statement on National Indigenous Peoples Day

Today is June 21st, National Indigenous Peoples Day—the day we recognize and honour the rich and diverse history, cultures, and achievements of First Nations, Inuit and Métis across this country.

New USask-based Indigenous centre for research on HIV, HCV and STBBI launches in Saskatoon

A new regional centre for Indigenous research on HIV, Hepatitis C Virus (HCV) and sexually transmitted blood-borne illness (STBBI), based at the University of Saskatchewan (USask), was officially launched on June 21.

Statement on burial site found at former residential school in Kamloops

A statement from Vice-Provost, Indigenous Engagement Dr. Jacqueline Ottmann.

Waniska Centre holds pipe ceremonies to establish relationships with partner organizations

Newly formed research relationships at the University of Saskatchewan (USask) were honoured and blessed with virtual pipe ceremonies on April 6 and 13, 2021.

Giving for life: organ donation and transplants through an Indigenous lens

Medical anthropologist Dr. Caroline Tait and fellow think tank members tackle ethical and philosophical questions around transplant medicine.

There’s more to McInnes than meets the eye

Dr. Adam McInnes (MD) isn’t afraid to jump into things with both feet.

USask awarded $650K to work with First Nations and Métis communities to address the impacts of COVID-19

The University of Saskatchewan (USask) has been named one of the 15 winners of the North American 2020 TD Ready Challenge presented by TD Bank Group.

Indigenous wellness through 'slow' research, with Alexandra King

Like the "slow food" movement, Dr. Alexandra King promotes "slow research" when it comes to Indigenous people's health and wellness.

Indigenous wellness learning at USask supported by CMA and SMA

University of Saskatchewan (USask) fourth-year medical students will be able to take the national award-winning Indigenous wellness online course, The Role of Practitioners in Indigenous Wellness, at no cost with the generous support of the Canadian Medical Association (CMA) and the Saskatchewan Medical Association (SMA).

USask researcher and Métis partners collaborate to jig away cardiac woes

SASKATOON – In a first-of-its-kind Canadian study, University of Saskatchewan (USask) researcher Heather Foulds will assess the physical, mental, cultural, and social benefits that result from performing traditional Métis social dances—something she says can narrow the health gap between Métis and non-Indigenous people.

Exploring technology use with Indigenous elderly for health and well-being

University of Saskatchewan (USask) post-doctoral fellow Dr. Cari McIlduff (PhD) has been awarded $45,000 from AGE-WELL and the Saskatchewan Health Research Foundation (SHRF) to learn which technology and telehealth services older Indigenous people would like to use for support in leading a healthy lifestyle.

USask provides virtual care during pandemic

When an outbreak of COVID-19 caused travel restrictions to be instituted in northern Saskatchewan in May, residents’ access to health care services were limited—especially for expectant mothers.

USask-led Indigenous health research network finds home at Station 20 West

In a significant step for Indigenous health research in Saskatchewan and nationally, a new University of Saskatchewan (USask)-led network dedicated to improving health and wellness in Indigenous communities will be moving into Station 20 West in a core neighborhood of Saskatoon’s west side.

USask College of Medicine hosts Indigenous language training

Cree is one of the most widely spoken Indigenous languages in the province. A new course offered by the College of Medicine at the University of Saskatchewan (USask) now gives participants the opportunity to learn the language.

Amendments to legislation protect vulnerable and Indigenous women

Indigenous women are three to four times more likely than other women to be sexually assaulted or murdered, and seven times more likely to be targeted by serial killers.

USask awarded $5 million to lead new CIHR Indigenous health research networks to address health disparities

University of Saskatchewan (USask) researchers have been awarded $5 million from the Canadian Institutes of Health Research (CIHR) as part of a major new national initiative that aims to create a network of Indigenous research centres driven by and grounded in Indigenous communities.

USask awarded $3.6M to tackle opioid withdrawal in babies, improve health care for youth and elderly

Eight University of Saskatchewan (USask) health research projects have been awarded nearly $3.6 million from the Canadian Institutes of Health Research (CIHR) to improve health and quality of life for children, mothers, seniors, Indigenous communities, and people in rural areas

Family recovery inspires USask student

When Kaili Gilroy’s aunt suffered a traumatic brain injury, the recovery process she witnessed first-hand gave her insight into her future career.

Academic path leads LaFleur around world

Jamie LaFleur’s road to convocation has featured a few stops and starts and twists and turns, but most importantly, a long list of life-changing experiences.

Understanding and advocating for miyo-māhcihowin (good health and well-being) among Indigenous Peoples living with Inflammatory Bowel Disease

Despite research about inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) in the general population, there is limited-to-no evidence about IBD among Indigenous peoples in Canada.

Graduate college awards recognize Indigenous student leadership

University of Saskatchewan (USask) Indigenous students Indiana Best and Cindy Deschenes have been awarded $20,000 each by the College of Graduate and Postdoctoral Studies (CGPS) to honour their leadership in the areas of public health and mental health.

New Indigenous Health and Wellness team to support health needs in First Nations and Métis communities

A new research group aims to change the narrative around Indigenous health and wellness by giving a stronger voice to Indigenous people.

Indigenous-led research centre to address HIV among First Nations, Inuit and Métis

The rise in HIV and other sexually transmitted infections among Indigenous people in Saskatchewan and Manitoba is to be addressed by a new $2.9-million Indigenous-led research centre to close gaps in prevention and care.

Indigenous Wellness program receives national recognition for ingenuity and innovation

An online course designed to help shed light on Indigenous experiences with the health care system is being recognized on a national scale.

College staff to learn about Indigenous stories and experiences with health care system

College of Medicine personnel are now taking part in an online course to learn about creating a culturally safe environment for Indigenous people.

Culturally safe, positive, empowering birth

Saskatchewan mothers shaping research aimed at improving the birthing experiences of Indigenous women

Aboriginal Achievement: Award winner hopes to make a difference in her community

Medical student Annette Pegg grew up on Kawacatoose First Nation and in inner-city Regina where she witnessed abuse, addictions and intergenerational trauma. Her experiences have strengthened her resolve as a physician and an advocate.

Cross-continental connections

Support between a donor alumnus and student blossoms into a friendship

Online course promotes Indigenous wellness

Establishing a safe and welcoming environment plays a significant part in providing health care.

Medical students reflect on volunteering at FSIN celebration

As part of their education and training, medical students learn to give back and take part in community events.

U of S and James Smith Cree Nation explore joint research and health care initiatives

SASKATOON – The University of Saskatchewan (U of S) College of Medicine, James Smith Cree Nation (JSCN), and JSCN Medical Clinic LP have signed an MOU to collaborate on initiatives that could include a joint radiology research chair, medical imaging services and research, and educational development opportunities for Indigenous youth.

U of S to host CIHR Institute of Indigenous Peoples’ Health

The University of Saskatchewan (U of S) will soon become the new home of the Institute of Indigenous Peoples' Health (IIPH)—one of 13 institutes of the Canadian Institutes of Health Research (CIHR)—under the leadership of the institute’s scientific director, Carrie Bourassa, who is joining the U of S College of Medicine.