NOSM University Reappoints Dr. Cindy Blackstock as Chancellor

NOSM University’s Board of Governors has announced the reappointment of Dr. Cindy Blackstock as Chancellor, continuing the leadership she has provided since her appointment as the university’s inaugural Chancellor in 2022. 

As ceremonial head of the university, Dr. Blackstock has been a respected advocate, mentor, and ambassador, and has helped advance the university’s commitment to social accountability, Indigenous inclusion, and health equity across Northern Ontario. 

A member of the Gitxsan Nation, Dr. Blackstock is an internationally recognized advocate for Indigenous children’s rights and was the 2023 recipient of the World Children’s Prize, voted on by millions of children around the world. She is Executive Director of the First Nations Child and Family Caring Society of Canada and a Professor at McGill University. Her lifelong commitment to equity, reconciliation, and social justice reflects NOSM University’s social accountability mandate and vision of health equity across the North. 

“The board is delighted that Dr. Blackstock will continue to serve as Chancellor,” says John P. Stenger, Chair of the Board of Governors. “Her wisdom, integrity, and unwavering commitment to the well-being of communities have made a lasting impact on the university and continue to inspire learners, faculty, staff, alumni, and partners across Northern Ontario.” 

“Dr. Blackstock is a champion of our social accountability mandate, and we are honoured to have her continued leadership as we work alongside communities to advance health equity across the North,” says Dr. Michael Green, President, Vice-Chancellor, Dean, and CEO of NOSM University. “Her wisdom, compassion and conviction make her an inspiring presence across NOSM University.” 

“Meaningful change happens when we work together in the service of others. I am honoured to continue serving as Chancellor of NOSM University,” says Dr. Blackstock. 

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NOSM University is Canada’s first independent medical university and one of the greatest education and physician workforce strategy success stories of Northern Ontario. More than just a medical university, it was purpose-built to address the health needs of the region. While advocating for equitable access to care, the university contributes to the economic development of Northern Ontario. NOSM University relies on the commitment and expertise of the people of Northern Ontario to educate health-care professionals to practise in Indigenous, Francophone, rural, remote, and underserved communities. With a focus on diversity, inclusion, and advocacy, NOSM University is an award-winning, socially accountable organization renowned for its innovative model of distributed, community-engaged education and research. 

For further information, please contact: news@nosm.ca