Press Release – For Immediate Release – May 9, 2025
NCIME Press Release – May 9, 2025
Press Release
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
New Funding and Transition for the National Circle for Indigenous Medical Education (NCIME)
OTTAWA, ON — May 9, 2025, NCIME is pleased to announce a multi-year grant of $2,437,500 from the Canadian Medical Association (CMA), which will further support its mission of driving systemic change in medical education.
“As part of our Reconciliation Action Plan, the CMA is committed to advancing health and well-being alongside Indigenous Peoples,” said CMA President Dr. Joss Reimer. “We are pleased to have the opportunity to support the National Circle for Indigenous Medical Education as part of that ongoing process.”
The National Circle (formerly Consortium) for Indigenous Medical Education (NCIME) is also proud to announce its official transition, effective April 1, 2025, to an independent not-for-profit organization, marking a significant milestone in its journey to advance Indigenous-led transformation in medical education across Canada.
In this exciting second phase, NCIME is guided by a dedicated and visionary Board of Directors:
• Dr. Sarah Funnell, Chair
• Valerie Arnault-Pelletier, Vice-Chair
• Dr. Catherine Cook, Secretary
• Dr. Michael Green, Treasurer
As part of this transition, NCIME is thrilled to welcome Sarah Konwahahawi Rourke, Ed.D, deer clan from Akwesasne, as its inaugural Chief Executive Officer, effective May 26, 2025.
Board Chair Sarah Funnell, MD shared her enthusiasm for this new chapter:
“We are excited to welcome Dr. Rourke and her vision for operational leadership as NCIME enters its second phase. Her guidance will be key as we continue our growth and deepen our impact.”
Dr. Rourke brings extensive experience in Indigenous education and leadership. They hold a master’s in educational leadership from St. Lawrence University and earned their Ed.D in Executive Leadership with a focus on Social Justice from St. John Fisher College in 2021. Dr. Rourke has worked extensively with Elders, traditional knowledge holders, and educators to strengthen Indigenous knowledge systems in institutional settings.
This transition also marks the evolution of leadership within NCIME. Current Executive Director Danielle N. Soucy, PhD will assume the new role of Executive Director, Academic, where she will continue to support the vision of NCIME leadership, the Academic Advisory Council, and national partners in scholarship, research, and innovation. Together, they will carry forward NCIME’s mission to shift medical education in Canada actively engaging in decolonization and anti-racism.
This transition reinforces NCIME’s commitment to Indigenous self-determination, system change, and meaningful reconciliation in health education. Under its new governance and leadership, NCIME will continue to champion Indigenous voices, values, and priorities in all aspects of medical education.
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.
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May 9, 2025