NIB Trust Fund Announces Mr. Arnold Blackstar as the new Executive Director

OTTAWA, June 18, 2018 /CNW/ - The National Indian Brotherhood (NIB) Trust Fund is pleased to announce the appointment of Arnold Blackstar as its new Executive Director effective July 16, 2018. The selection was made after an extensive national search and interview process.

"Arnold's extensive knowledge and experience in Indigenous education, youth programming and strategic policy will make him an excellent addition to the NIB Trust Fund" said Keith Martell, NIB Trust Fund Chair. "He has advanced experience in First Nation post-secondary education and training systems while navigating a complex network of government, stakeholders and other organizations. Arnold will lead our talented team of staff in working with the Board of Trustees to advance NIB Trust Funds vision of preserving and revitalizing First Nations languages, cultures, and ways of life, and continue to create meaningful opportunities that improve the quality of life for First Nations People."

Mr. Blackstar formerly served as the Director, Indigenous Education, for the Government of Ontario, where he was responsible for the development of programs, policies and strategic planning for Indigenous education initiatives. He also held positions as Director of Aboriginal Programs with the non-profit Canada World Youth, as Education and Labour Force Development Coordinator for Moosomin First Nation and Regional Manager for the Aboriginal Policing Directorate in Saskatchewan. Mr. Blackstar has a Bachelor of Education and Bachelor of Law degrees from the University of Saskatchewan.

"In this time of reconciliation where we are working to address the harms of residential schools, it is my honour and privilege to contribute to the advancement of healing, promoting Indigenous languages and culture revitalization," said Mr. Blackstar. "This is a great opportunity to help facilitate First Nations people who are looking for support to bring about positive changes for themselves and their communities".

The NIB Trust Fund allocates funds in accordance with the 2007 Indian Residential Schools Settlement Agreement, the largest settlement agreement in Canadian history. The settlement agreement provided compensation to survivors for their experiences at residential schools. Funds are available to First Nation and Métis individuals, governments and organizations through a competitive application process.

SOURCE National Indian Brotherhood Trust Fund