Dr. Leona Makokis, EdD, is a member of the Kehewin Cree Nation.

In the mid-seventies, she was invited by Blue Quills Native Education Authority to instruct a secretarial arts program. This was the beginning of a long career at B.Q. F.N.C. as Executive Director from 1982 to 1988 and as president from 1992 until retirement in 2010. During this time, she also earned a long list of academic credentials, including a Bachelor of Administration from Athabasca University, a Bachelor of Education from the University of Alberta, a Master of Arts in Leadership Education from San Diego State University and a Doctorate in Education from the University of San Diego. Throughout her tenure at Blue Quills, she transformed the College from being only a host campus for other institutions to becoming the first independent, accredited Indigenous institution to offer its own degrees. Her diligence and dedication have allowed numerous students to obtain diplomas, degrees in Indigenous knowledge, ceremony and language.

Leona has extensive teaching and research experience with a focus on leadership and revitalization of nehiyawewin (Cree Language), culture, ceremony and tradition. She has written books and journal articles resulting from her research as well as her residential school experience. Disordered Dependencies (journal article) Relationship Mapping, awina niya: nitisiyihkason, Leadership Teachings from Cree Elders, ohpikinawasowin/growing a child (editor)

Leona facilitated omanitew and nehiyaw kes wahkotok: cree relationship mapping-which are experiential learning opportunities guided by the nehiyaw teachings of kiskinohamakewin – learning my modeling and doing. She continues to make presentations and is involved in community activities and ceremonies.

Leona’s contribution has been widely recognized, including the Women of Vision Award, an Honorary Law degree from the University of Calgary, alumni degrees from the University of Alberta, Athabasca University, the University of San Diego, and an honorary degree from the University of Blue Quills. She also received an Indspire Award – a lifetime achievement in the field of Indigenous education.

“This is an honour to be a part of this circle. It provides me with an opportunity to carry on with the work I have always been involved in. Our elders have told me that it is my responsibility to pass on the academic and Indigenous knowledge to the next generation and continue learning. This circle will provide me with the opportunity to meet others with the same interest.”