U of S creates new research chair to study Métis governance and policy

The University of Saskatchewan has created a new research chair position to explore how Métis culture and tradition can inform governance and policy decisions.

The Research Chair in Métis Governance and Policy comes as the result of a partnership between the university, the Métis Nation–Saskatchewan and the Johnson Shoyama Graduate School of Public Policy (JSGS).

According to the university, the organizations have committed more than $1.1 million in funding over four years to establish the research chair position.

The funding will also support scholarships and internship opportunities for verified Métis students, the university said, and help develop a Métis governance training program.

Taking on the role of research chair is Dr. Kurtis Boyer, a Métis Nation–Saskatchewan citizen, assistant professor at the JSGS and adviser to the university’s vice-provost of Indigenous engagement.

“His contributions, both in the classroom and through his research, will help develop thoughtful and skilled decision makers thereby improving governance systems, and ultimately, quality of life for Métis people throughout the province,” Dr. Loleen Berdahl, JSGS executive director, said in a statement.

Glen McCallum, president of the Métis Nation–Saskatchewan, praised the university and its president, Dr. Peter Stoicheff, for creating the new position.

“The University of Saskatchewan is not only proving itself to be a formidable partner by turning words into actions but, under President Stoicheff’s leadership, is taking bold steps not seen at any other institution in this country,” McCallum said in a statement.

“Now, we are pleased to have Kurtis Boyer assume this first-ever Métis Governance and Policy Research Chair position to help pave the way for our next generation of Métis leaders.”

The university, McCallum noted, introduced the first policy of its kind in Canada “to verify Métis students seeking opportunities on campus.”