Jo-Ann Episkenew facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Jo-Ann Episkenew (née Thom)
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| Born | 19 August 1952 Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada |
| Died | 18 February 2016 (aged 63) Regina, Saskatchewan, Canada |
| Occupation | Educator |
| Nationality | Canadian |
| Education | M.B.A., Ph.D. |
| Alma mater | University of Regina, Ernst-Moritz-Arndt University |
| Notable work | Taking Back Our Spirits; Indigenous Literature, Public Policy, and Healing |
| Notable awards | YMCA Regina Women of Distinction Lifetime Achievement Award |
Jo-Ann Episkenew (born August 19, 1952 – died February 18, 2016) was a special Métis writer and teacher. She was born in Manitoba, Canada, but lived most of her life in Saskatchewan. She loved learning and earned several important degrees. In 2006, she made history by getting her Ph.D. (a very high university degree) from a university in Germany. She was the first Indigenous Canadian to do so!
Jo-Ann Episkenew's Important Work
Jo-Ann Episkenew was a professor of English literature. She taught at the First Nations University of Canada. This means she helped students learn about books and stories.
She also led a research center at the University of Regina. This center focused on the health and well-being of Indigenous people.
Helping Indigenous Communities
Jo-Ann was part of a group called the Chotro International Consultative Group. This group held meetings twice a year to talk about important issues for Indigenous people around the world.
Her research looked at Indigenous literature. It also explored how to improve the health and lives of Aboriginal and First Nations people in Canada. She worked on projects both in Canada and with other countries.
Awards and Recognition
Jo-Ann Episkenew received many awards for her hard work and dedication.
In 2015, she was given the YMCA Regina Women of Distinction Lifetime Achievement Award. This award celebrates women who have made a big difference over their lives.
In 2016, she also received an Indspire Award. This award honors Indigenous Canadians who have shown amazing achievements. Jo-Ann was one of only fourteen people chosen that year for her service to education.
