Algoma U names new director of Anishinaabe Initiatives

Joe Tom Sayers brings extensive experience to his new role

NEWS RELEASE
ALGOMA UNIVERSITY
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Algoma University is pleased to announce the appointment of Joe Tom Sayers as director of Anishinaabe Initiatives.

“We are pleased to have Joe Tom Sayers joining our leadership team at Algoma University,” said President and Vice-Chancellor Asima Vezina. “Joe brings to Algoma a wealth of knowledge and expertise in Anishinaabe culture and traditions.”

Sayers joins Algoma University from Sheguindah First Nation where he served as the chief financial officer (CFO) from 2013 - 2016. Aside from his time as CFO, Sayers has also worked with Health Canada, the Assembly of First Nations, Shingwauk Education Trust, North Shore Tribal Council, Batchewana First Nation, and Sault College, among others.

Sayers has also served on the University’s Board of Governors and Senate.

Through his various roles, Sayers has been instrumental in developing Indigenous curriculum and Truth and Reconciliation Truth Taking sessions. He has led community engagement consultations with First Nations, coordinated cultural immersion camps and events, and has worked closely with residential school Survivors. He has also secured millions of dollars in funding for various capital expansion projects.

Sayers earned his Bachelor of Arts in Public Administration and Governance from Ryerson University. He also holds a Certificate in Journalism from Western University. Sayers is set to earn his Master of Arts in Public Administration from Queen’s University in 2019.

“I’m grateful to the University and the Anishinaabe community for the honour of serving as the Director of Anishinaabe Initiatives,” said Sayers. “Anishinaabe Initiatives provides a significant service to students, administration, faculty, and the broader community. My goal as the new Director is to strengthen and expand our services to prepare our students for the future while also increasing the number of Anishinaabe students who earn degrees here at Algoma U.”

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