Lisa Bourque Bearskin

Dr. Lisa Bourque Bearskin is a tenured Associate Professor at the University of Victoria and the inaugural holder of the Canadian Institute of Indigenous Health Research (CIHR) Indigenous Health Nursing Research Chair. She is a Cree Métis Registered Nurse with 30 years of experience and expertise in Indigenous health nursing, leadership, equity, and Indigenous knowledge systems.

Education:

• Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Nursing, University of Alberta
• Master of Science in Nursing, University of Alberta
• Baccalaureate in Nursing, University of Alberta
• Licensed Practical Nursing (LPN)

Her research focuses on community-driven knowledge generation to advance Indigenous health nursing, emphasizing relational and rights/strength-based approaches to Indigenous health rights. She has pioneered efforts to reconcile traditional Indigenous healthcare practices with modern community wellness frameworks.

Scientific Awards:

• CIHR Indigenous Health Nursing Research Chair

A sur-thriver of the residential school and sixties scoop era, she rebuilt her connection to Indigenous culture and community. She previously served as president of the Canadian Indigenous Nursing Association (CINA), leading transformative initiatives in Indigenous healthcare leadership.