In alignment with our institutional commitment to reconciliation and decolonization, and the vision set forth in Braiding Past, Present and Future: University of Alberta Indigenous Strategic Plan, Strategic Plan for EDI and Shape: A Strategic Plan of Impact, I am excited to share that Nathalie Kermoal has accepted the role of provost fellow in Decolonizing Policies for a two-year term, effective July 1, 2024.
Working in collaboration with Florence Glanfield (vice-provost, Indigenous Programming and Research) and Carrie Smith (vice-provost, Equity, Diversity and Inclusion), this new role aims to address Decolonization in the academy. Nathalie will assist in a variety of projects which include engaging in a scan of how tenure, promotion and merit practices can be aligned with Braiding Past, Present and Future and Strategic Plan for EDI, updating the Indigenous Student Success Survey and conducting a decolonizing review of U of A policies.
About Nathalie Kermoal
Nathalie Kermoal, PhD, is a professor in the Faculty of Native Studies. She is a bilingual specialist (French and English) in Canadian history and more, specifically in Métis history. She has published books and articles on the Métis, Urban Indigenous issues and Contemporary Indigenous Art. In 2022-23, she served as acting dean of the Faculty of Native Studies and for 12 years, she also served as associate-dean, academic. She is the director of the Rupertsland Center for Métis Research, which received the 2024 Sarah Shorten Award for outstanding contributions to the promotion of the advancement of women in Canadian universities and colleges. In 2023, Nathalie received a U of A Community Scholar Award for building research capacity and partnerships with the Métis Nation to advance Métis-specific research and furthering awareness and appreciation of Métis research, education, art and culture.
Please join me in congratulating Nathalie and welcoming her to this new leadership role at the U of A.
Verna Yiu
Provost and Vice-President (Academic)