First Nations Health Managers Association Celebrates New CFNHM Graduates and Doris Bear Award Winner at 14th Annual National Conference
For Immediate Release – Vancouver, BC (November 4, 2026) – The First Nations Health Managers Association (FNHMA) is proud to celebrate the newest graduates of the Certified First Nations Health Manager Program (CFNHMP) during its 14th Annual National Conference, taking place November 3–5, 2026, in Vancouver, British Columbia. The annual convocation recognizes the dedication, achievements, and leadership of individuals committed to strengthening First Nations health management and advancing the wellbeing of their communities.
“Today, we celebrate more than the achievement of a professional designation. We celebrate the commitment, resilience, and vision of First Nations health leaders who are helping shape a stronger future for our communities. Each graduate brings valuable knowledge and leadership to their work, building on the strengths of their people and paving the way for future generations,” states FNHMA President, David McLaren.
FNHMA is also proud to recognize Angela J. Merasty, from Peter Ballantyne Cree Nation Health Services as the recipient of the Doris Bear Award for Certified First Nations Health Managers Program Excellence. This award celebrates outstanding achievement and recognizes a student who demonstrates excellence throughout the CFNHMP. Angela’s accomplishment reflects the dedication, knowledge, and leadership that the program strives to foster in First Nations health management professionals.
The 2026 convocation and awards ceremony at the 14th Annual National Conference celebrates the following 35 newly designated Certified First Nations Health Managers:
1. Eunice Lopez, Bigstone Health Commission, AB
2. Tara Elliott, Kee Tas Kee Now Tribal Council, AB
3. Bonnie Murray, Southern Chiefs’ Organization Inc., MB
4. Crystal Whiteway, Pauingassi First Nation, MB
5. Lee Green, Buffalo Point First Nation, MB
6. Tanya Eashappie, Birdtail Sioux Dakota Nation, MB
7. Deana Sappier, Neqotkuk Health Programs and Services, NB
8. Renelle Chevarie, Elsipogtog Health and Wellness Centre, NB
9. Claire Jasper, Couchiching First Nation, ON
10. Janis Wabano, Mushkegowuk Council, ON
11. Karen Costello, Sioux Lookout First Nations Health Authority, ON
12. Kimberly Lawson, Sioux Lookout First Nations Health Authority, ON
13. Krista Campbell, Sioux Lookout First Nations Health Authority, ON
14. Michael Cummine, Sioux Lookout First Nations Health Authority, ON
15. Andrew Martin, Gesgapegiag Health and Community Services, QC
16. Jennifer Trentin, Kanesatake Health Centre Inc., QC
17. Priscilla Rose Weapenicappo, Cree Board of Health and Social Services of James Bay, QC
18. Ammarie Clinton, Woodland Wellness Centre, SK
19. Angela J. Merasty, Peter Ballantyne Cree Nation Health Services Inc., SK
20. Ashley Baker, White Bear First Nations, SK
21. Brenda Bird, Lac La Ronge Indian Band Health Services, SK
22. Brenda Rediron-Chocan, Onion Lake Health Board Inc., SK
23. Christine McKenzie, Woodland Wellness Centre, SK
24. Dana Ross, Northern Inter-Tribal Health Authority, SK
25. Darlene Bryant, Cote First Nation, SK
26. Eduardo Vallerio, Woodland Wellness Centre, SK
27. Gina L. Whiteman, Standing Buffalo Dakota Nation, SK
28. Glenda Burnouf, Onion Lake Health Board Inc., SK
29. Jennifer Roberts, Lac La Ronge Indian Band Health Services, SK
30. Joanne Buckles, Cowessess First Nation #73, SK
31. Jody Stapley, Onion Lake Health Centre, SK
32. Mindy Koochicum, Peepeekisis Cree First Nation, SK
33. Morgan Watson, Kahkewistahaw First Nation #72, SK
34. Utin Ahenakew, Ahtahkakoop Health Centre, SK
35. Valerie McLeod, Woodland Wellness Centre, SK
As the demand for strong, culturally grounded health leadership continues to grow, FNHMA remains committed to supporting First Nations health managers through education, professional development, and opportunities to connect with fellow leaders. The achievements of this year’s graduates represent an important step forward in strengthening First Nations health systems and creating healthier futures for generations to come.
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For more information or to schedule an interview, please contact:
Kylie Thompson
Marketing and Communications Coordinator
First Nations Health Managers Association (FNHMA)
343-961-5620
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