Boyden is pleased to share the appointment news of Dr. Ruth Williams, Kip Woodward, Laurie Mercer, and Genesa Greening, a recruitment co-led by Craig Hemer and Ella Laure Hipolito
The board will drive the FNHF’s work to transform health outcomes and achieve health equity for First Nations in British Columbia.
The First Nations Health Foundation (FNHF) is excited to announce the members of its 2024-25 board, marking a milestone for the organization.
The newly appointed members bring expertise in First Nations health and wellness, philanthropy, strategic planning, and financial management. Together, they will guide the strategic direction of the FNHF to advance health equity and deliver culturally safe care for First Nations communities in British Columbia.
The board will build on the progress laid by founding board members M. Colleen Erickson, Angela George, Tammy Myles, and Michael Bonshor. The FNHF extends its heartfelt gratitude for their dedicated service and invaluable contributions, as their vision and leadership were instrumental in bringing the organization to life.
Established in 2022, the FNHF is the philanthropic partner to the First Nations Health Authority (FNHA), Canada’s first and only province-wide, First Nations-led health authority of its kind. The FNHF connects with donors to raise critical funds beyond government contributions to deliver innovative, community-driven, and First Nations-based models of care to over 200 First Nations communities and their members in BC.
Meet the FNHF Board of Directors
Dr. Ruth Williams
Ruth, of the Tsilhqot’in Nation, is a founding member of All Nations Trust Company, an Aboriginal Financial Institution, operating since 1987. With decades of leadership experience, Ruth holds a number of accolades for her work with First Nations communities, including an honorary Doctorate of Law from Thompson River University, and is a member of the Order of BC.
Kip Woodward
Kip, a life-long resident of Vancouver, is the President of Woodcorp Investments Ltd. and Chair of the Keg Royalty Trust Fund. He has spent decades serving the community on various boards, including over 20 years of experience in health governance with Vancouver Coastal Health Authority and Providence Health Care.
Laurie Mercer
Laurie, from the Nisg̀a’a Nation, has extensive experience in financial management and leadership. Recently retired from full-time work, she serves on the Indigenous Advisory Committee of the Northern Development Initiative Trust and actively participates in community events.
Genesa Greening
Genesa is a non-profit leader with nearly 30 years of experience. As the CEO for Vancity Community Foundation, Genesa is deeply committed to advancing Truth and Reconciliation and decolonizing philanthropy. She actively works to support Indigenous communities, recognizing the importance of addressing historical injustices and fostering equitable partnerships.
Yousuf Ali
Yousuf is a dedicated advocate for First Nations health and wellness with a distinguished career in health and wellness. As the former BC Regional Director for First Nations and Inuit Health at Health Canada and a Vice President with the First Nations Health Authority (FNHA), he played a key role in establishing the FNHA and advancing self-determined, First Nations-led healthcare. Now retired, Yousuf continues to support First Nations communities through philanthropy and advocacy.
Dr. Sheila Blackstock
Sheila is Gitxsan from Northern BC, currently serves as an Associate Professor at the University of Northern British Columbia. With over 36 years of practical nursing experience, she obtained her PhD from the University of Alberta and holds a Master of Science in Nursing. She also serves as the Chair of the FNHA Board and brings strong governance expertise.
Greg Louie
A former elected Chief Councillor of the Ahousaht First Nation, Greg has deep expertise in governance, finance, capital projects, strategic planning, education, reconciliation, negotiation, and health. Greg’s profound understanding of the challenges facing First Nation communities fuels his unwavering passion for enhancing the lives of Indigenous people.
Click here to view the full FNHF Board Member Bios.
Quotes
Nathania Fung, Executive Director, FNHF
“Having a Board of Directors with such diverse expertise and unwavering dedication to advancing health and wellness for First Nations communities in BC is invaluable as we build our first strategic plan and begin to create meaningful impact. I am confident that together, we will fulfill the FNHF’s purpose of transforming health outcomes and achieving health equity for First Nations in BC.”
Richard Jock, CEO, FNHA
“The establishment of the FNHF Board of Directors marks a significant step forward in advancing FNHA’s mission and vision. With their commitment and insights, this board will play a critical role in amplifying our efforts to improve health outcomes, support self-determination, and foster vibrant and healthy First Nations communities across BC.”
Dr. Ruth Williams, Chair, FNHF Board of Directors
“We have a profound opportunity to empower health and wellness for First Nations in BC by raising the funds needed to support the transformative work of the FNHA. Together, we will champion wellness journeys, foster sustainable, culturally grounded, and community-driven care, and help lay the foundation for achieving health equity—creating a healthier future for generations to come.”
Original Source: FNHF News
