John Fischer, is Nehiyaw and a proud member of the Cowessess First Nation, currently holds the position of Interim Associate Vice President of Indigenization and Decolonization at Mount Royal University. In addition to this role, he is also an active participant in the President’s EDI Advisory Committee, serves as an MRU Ashoka Change Leader, and contributes to the Ashoka Canada Indigenous Advisory. Prior to his current role, Mr. Fischer was the Director of the Iniskim Centre and was a high school principal at the Calgary Board of Education before retiring. His ongoing commitment is evident in his continuous advocacy for students and faculty alike. Mr. Fischer’s work revolves around fostering reciprocal relationships within the community, championing curriculum change initiatives, and persistently advancing and developing the Indigenous Strategic Plan.
John has generously dedicated several years of his life to the Indigenous Gathering Place Society of Calgary, contributing significantly towards the creation and development of a communal space for urban Indigenous peoples. In addition, he holds a position on the Advisory Committee of Dignity Forum, where he champions human rights education at both systemic and grassroots levels. His commitment extended to his past role on the Turtle Island Institute Steering Committee and as a founding Director of the Connections Education Society. Furthermore, John has served as Chair of the Board for the Calgary Foundation and continues to be an active volunteer.