Craig Abotossaway

Craig has 25 plus years experience working directly on a variety of First Nations health initiatives. Craig has a Masters of Social Work degree from Wilfred Laurier University, specializing in Indigenous Health Practice. As a former elected Chief of his First Nations community of Aundeck Omni Kaning, he brings extensive political knowledge of both the provincial and federal levels of government and health issues facing First Nations people, both regionally and nationally.

Currently, Craig is the Executive Director of Mnaamodzawin Health Services, which services five member First Nations communities on Mnidoo Mnising (Manitoulin Island). Craig is a strong advocate of Indigenous approaches to Health practice, and ensuring they are highly promoted and expected by the staff of the agency, ensuring health services meet the unique needs of First Nations people. Annually, Mnaamodzawin Health Services is an active partner with NOSM, taking first year students for their CBM 106 placement.

Craig is passionate and always striving to bring about positive growth within First Nations Health services. He has worked at a variety of levels of health, from the grass roots, management and up into the politics effecting the health of First Nations people. He brings experience as a valued member, sitting on a variety of Boards and Committees.

Craig is an active member of the Anishnabek community, as a public speaker promoting the rich culture and heritage of First Nations people and their contributions to the various levels of society. He is the recipient of the 2010 Union of Ontario Indians Lifetime Achievement Awards – Scotia Bank Education Excellence Award. Craig continues to share his knowledge, teaching college level First Nations Social Work courses and as a placement supervisor for Laurentian and Wilfred Laurier University social work students.

As a newly appointed member to the Board of Directors, Craig is looking forward to working with the other valued members and contributing to the success of the Northern Ontario School of medicine.