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Nellie Kusugak
ONu
Nellie Kusugak, 2016 (cropped).jpg
5th Commissioner of Nunavut
In office
23 June 2015 – 22 June 2020
Prime Minister
Premier
Preceded by Edna Elias
Succeeded by Rebekah Williams (acting)
Acting
11 April 2010 – 31 May 2010
Prime Minister Stephen Harper
Premier Eva Aariak
Preceded by Ann Meekitjuk Hanson
Succeeded by Edna Elias
Deputy Commissioner of Nunavut
In office
15 February 2010 – 23 June 2015
Prime Minister Stephen Harper
Premier Eva Aariak
Peter Taptuna
Preceded by Helen Maksagak
Personal details
Born
Nellie Taptaqut Kusugak

1955 (age 69–70)
Rankin Inlet, Northwest Territories (now Nunavut), Canada
Spouse Jose Kusugak
Occupation educator
Profession politician

Nellie Taptaqut Kusugak (born in 1955) is a Canadian educator. She served as the fifth commissioner of Nunavut from June 2015 to June 2020. The Commissioner is like a representative of the King or Queen in Nunavut.

Early Life and Education

Nellie Kusugak grew up in Rankin Inlet, a community in Nunavut. She became a teacher and worked for about 20 years. She taught in both Inuktitut and English.

In 1996, she earned a Bachelor of Education degree. She got this through a special program for teachers in Nunavut. This program was offered by Nunavut Arctic College and McGill University. Before becoming a public official, she taught adults at Nunavut Arctic College.

Political Career

Nellie Kusugak held important roles in Nunavut's government. From 2010 to 2015, she was the Deputy Commissioner of Nunavut. The Deputy Commissioner helps the Commissioner with their duties.

She was chosen for this role by the Minister of Indian Affairs and Northern Development. She officially started on February 25, 2010.

In April 2010, she became the acting Commissioner of Nunavut for a short time. She served in this role until a new Commissioner was appointed.

As Commissioner, Nellie Kusugak represented all the people of Nunavut. Her duties included:

  • Approving new laws passed by the government.
  • Swearing in new cabinet ministers.
  • Signing important government documents.

Personal Life

Nellie Kusugak was married to Jose Kusugak. He was a well-known leader in Nunavut. He used to be the president of Nunavut Tunngavik Incorporated. This organization works to protect the rights of Inuit people in Nunavut.

Honours and Awards

Nellie Kusugak has received special recognition for her work.

  • She is a member of the Order of Nunavut. This is the highest honour given by the territory of Nunavut.
  • She also received the Louie Kamookak Medal from the Royal Canadian Geographical Society. This award celebrates people who share Canadian geography and culture.

See also

Learn more about Nellie Kusugak in Spanish!

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