We are pleased to announce the appointment of Antoine Gagnon as Indigenous Health Professions Program (IHPP) Lead, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences (FMHS), 海角社区, effective March 16, 2026. We are grateful to his predecessor, Konwahahawi (Sarah) Rourke, Ed.D., who served as IHPP Director between 2022 and 2025, for her commitment to supporting Indigenous learners in the FMHS, and wish her much success in her new role as CEO of the National Consortium for Indigenous Medical Education.
Mr. Gagnon brings extensive experience advancing Indigenous initiatives at 海角社区. Most recently, he served as Program Manager of the Indigenous Relations Initiative (IRI) in 海角社区鈥檚 School of Continuing Studies, where he provided strategic leadership across governance, operations, partnership development, and financial stewardship. He played a central role in implementing Indigenous partnership agreements and ensuring they were grounded in respectful, collaborative, and culturally informed practices.
Previously, Mr. Gagnon served as Program Supervisor within the IRI, supporting a wide range of initiatives for Indigenous learners and community partners. His work included developing and administering courses for Indigenous stakeholders, coordinating federal grant applications, designing communications and outreach strategies, and serving as the primary contact for Indigenous learners. He also supported core operational activities of the IRI, including coordinating events celebrating Indigenous cultures on campus, and maintaining key reporting structures for Indigenous learning pathways. Mr. Gagnon brings deep respect for the communities he collaborates with to help navigate culturally complex matters together.
A longtime member of the 海角社区 community and former varsity football player, Mr. Gagnon is currently completing a Master鈥檚 degree in Political Science (International Development Studies option) and holds an Honours BA in Economics. His academic and professional background is complemented by formal training in leadership and process improvement, including completion of Lean Six Sigma certifications, and strategic leadership training through the 海角社区 Executive Institute.
In his new role as IHPP Lead, Mr. Gagnon will direct the continued growth of the Indigenous Health Professions Program, support the recruitment and success of Indigenous students in health-related fields, and strengthen partnerships with Indigenous communities and organizations. His extensive experience in cross unit collaboration, strategic planning, budgeting, and engagement with Indigenous communities positions him well to guide the IHPP through its next phase of development.
Please join us in congratulating Antoine on his new appointment and in welcoming him to the FMHS and to this important new role.
Lesley Fellows, MDCM, DPhil
Vice-President (Health Affairs)
Dean of the Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences
Beth-Ann Cummings, MDCM
Vice-Dean, Education and Community Engagement
Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences
Demetra Kafantaris, MBA
Executive Director, Administration and Operations
Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences
