Annette Fox-Bruised Head is the University of Lethbridge’s new vice-provost, Iniskim Indigenous Relations.
Accomplished educator, administrator and University of Lethbridge alumna Annette Fox-Bruised Head has been named the new vice-provost, Iniskim Indigenous Relations.
Fox-Bruised Head has spent more than 24 years as an educator, including more than a decade in school leadership and five years as a central office administrator.
From the Kainai First Nation, she recently completed a two-year term as principal of Lethbridge Collegiate Institute.
“We are very fortunate to find someone who so adeptly weaves teaching experience, mentorship, administrative and curriculum work grounded in Blackfoot ways of knowing that guide her practice,” said Dr. Michelle Helstein, the University of Lethbridge’s provost and vice-president academic.
“Her perspective, understanding and collaborative spirit will only enhance the excellent work this office has been leading. She will continue to shape the university’s commitment to reconciliation and advance Indigenous engagement and achievement through facilitating student support, initiatives, programs, curriculum and research.”
Fox-Bruised Head is excited for the role she’ll assume at the university, acknowledging that leaving LCI was a difficult decision.
“I am so honoured to be offered the opportunity to be part of the ongoing work of reconciliation at Iniskim,” Fox-Bruised Head said. “It is with mixed emotion that I am leaving a wonderful place of learning to one that has a reputation of innovation and enlightenment.”
““It is with humility and awe to work alongside strategic visionaries. I acknowledge all those who have shaped and been part of my journey as an educator including my large and extended family, my many colleagues past and present, and my mentors.”
Raised in a home centered in Blackfoot language, ceremony and world view Fox-Bruised Head said it has guided her throughout her journey as a student and then as an educator.
“I learned from my grandparents the values of humility, reciprocity, collective responsibility and lifelong learning,” Fox-Bruised Head said. “These teachings guide my leadership style and my understanding of how institutions must support Indigenous students, staff, faculty and communities.”
“Across my career, I have worked to build systems that honour Indigenous knowledge, uplift student voices and remove barriers that hinder Indigenous achievement.”
Fox-Bruised Head earned a diploma in Renewable Resource Management from Lethbridge Polytechnic, before completing a bachelor of science in Environmental Science, bachelor of education in Secondary Science Education and a master of education in General Education from the University of Lethbridge.
Her professional work has included teaching positions in the Holy Spirit Catholic School Division, the Kainai Board of Education and Lethbridge School Division, both as a teacher and in multiple administrative posts.
Fox-Bruised Head has also worked at the post-secondary level, co-facilitating Niitsitapi Pre-Service Teacher Education Program evaluation seminars, a University of Lethbridge and Red Crow College initiative, taught Niitsitapi teacher education courses through the University of Alberta, instructed Aboriginal Health 1000 and since 2020, taught multiple iterations of the FNMI Leadership course in the University of Lethbridge master of education program.
Fox-Bruised Head will begin her role as vice-provost Iniskim Indigenous Relations on July 1.
