NAN Mourns Passing of Educator and Community Leader Norma Kejick

THUNDER BAY, ON: Nishnawbe Aski Nation (NAN) Grand Chief Alvin Fiddler, on behalf of the Executive Council, expresses heartfelt condolences following the passing of Norma Kejick, a dedicated educator, community leader, and pioneer in Indigenous education:

“We are deeply saddened with the passing of our dear friend Norma Kejick. On behalf of Executive Council, I extend our sincerest condolences to her family, friends, loved ones, and all those whose lives she touched. May the Creator guide her as she begins her Spirit Journey.

Norma was one of the first members of the Northern Nishnawbe Education Council (NNEC) board – an organization that delivers secondary and post-secondary education programs and services for First Nations people through Pelican Falls First Nations High School, Dennis Franklin Cromarty High School, and Wahsa Distance Education Centre. She understood what it meant for a young person to leave their community to continue their education, and she committed herself to making sure those students were supported, seen, and cared for. Norma was there for the families and students during the Seven Youth Inquest, fighting for justice and accountability.

Norma had strong connections to the land. She found meaning and restoration in camping, fishing, and hunting – the same relationship with the land that grounds so many of our people. She carried that connection into her work and into her life, and it was part of what made her such a grounded and purposeful leader. She will be greatly missed by all who knew her and all who benefited from her service. We hold her family and the community of Lac Seul First Nation in our hearts during this very difficult time.”

Norma dedicated years of her life to education as Director of Education at NNEC, overseeing high schools that gave young people pathways forward. Her commitment to her community extended well beyond education, she took on leadership roles in many aspects of community life, always guided by a deep dedication to the safety and well-being of her people. In 2024, NAN recognized Norma with the Emile Nakogee Award for Outstanding Leadership a recognition that reflected what so many already knew: that her contributions to Indigenous education in Northern Ontario were exceptional and enduring.

Funeral arrangements have not yet been announced. Please keep Norma’s family and loved ones in your thoughts and prayers in the days ahead.

For more information please contact:
Michael Heintzman,
Director of Communications
Cell: (807) 621-2790
mheintzman@nan.ca