Press Release – June 9, 2025

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Press Release – June 9, 2025.pdf

National Circle for Indigenous Medical Education (NCIME) Announces Two New Appointments to Advance Indigenous-Led Medical Education

Ottawa, ON — June 9, 2025 — The National Circle for Indigenous Medical Education (NCIME) is proud to announce the appointment of two new leaders to support its mission of transforming medical education through Indigenous-led approaches and systems change.

Dr. Evan Adams will lead NCIME’s work in assessment within medical education. A renowned Coast Salish physician from the Tla’amin First Nation near qathet, BC, Dr. Adams brings a multidisciplinary perspective rooted in public health, Indigenous advocacy and medical education. He will continue to share his time between the NCIME and as the Deputy Chief Medical Officer of the First Nations Health Authority of BC. Dr. Adams is celebrated for his ability to blend energy, compassion, and wisdom in service of Indigenous health and wellbeing. Dr. Adams was one of the inaugural members of the NCIME executive committee in Phase I and we are thrilled to have him join us in Phase II. When asked about what intrigued him about this role he said, “I’m very please to join NCIME. I have so much respect for what they are doing – and where they are going – in training doctors for our communities”.

NCIME also warmly welcomes Audrey Henry, MBA as the organization’s new Director of Operations. Audrey brings a strong background in strategic leadership, organizational development, and operational excellence, combined with a deep commitment to Indigenous communities. With her extensive experience in managing complex projects and fostering team success, Audrey will play a key role in advancing NCIME’s goals through collaborative and efficient operational stewardship.

“We are incredibly honoured to have both Dr. Evan Adams and Audrey Henry join our team,” said Konwahahawi (Sarah) Rourke, CEO. “Their leadership and lived experience will further strengthen NCIME’s work in building inclusive, accountable, and culturally grounded systems within medical education”.

These new appointments reflect NCIME’s growing capacity to lead change at the national level, grounded in Indigenous knowledge, experience, and self-determination.

About NCIME

The National Circle for Indigenous Medical Education (NCIME) is a national, Indigenous-led organization dedicated to transforming medical education and advancing Indigenous health equity. NCIME builds spaces where Indigenous students, educators, and physicians thrive, and where medical education reflects the realities and strengths of Indigenous Peoples and communities.

Media Contact: communications@ncime.ca | www.ncime.ca