Claudette Commanda

Ambassador

Elder Claudette Commanda is an Algonquin Anishinaabe leader from the Kitigan Zibi Anishinabeg First Nation whose career has been dedicated to advancing Indigenous education, cultural revitalization, and reconciliation. A graduate of the University of Ottawa’s Faculties of Arts and Law, she has spent more than three decades teaching, mentoring, and advocating for Indigenous peoples through her work in higher education, community development, and public service.

In 2022, Commanda became the first Indigenous Chancellor of the University of Ottawa, a historic appointment that reflects her longstanding leadership and commitment to building stronger relationships between Indigenous and non-Indigenous communities. She is also the Chief Executive Officer of the First Nations Confederacy of Cultural Education Centres and has received numerous honours, including an Indspire Award, for her contributions to Indigenous culture, heritage, and education across Canada.”