We are IH: Director focuses on culture of Indigenous health care

Roseann’s path to health care was rooted in meaning and purpose. Before joining the health sector in 2020, Roseann spent more than two decades training, researching, and teaching in post-secondary institutions across B.C. 

Her areas of work included adolescent mental health, program evaluation and Indigenous health. She spent nearly a decade teaching within the Northern Medical Program (a distributed site of UBC’s Undergraduate Medical Program). She also held appointments at the University of Northern British Columbia and the National Collaborating Centre for Indigenous Health.

Her transition from academia to Northern Health (NH) brought her to system change initiatives. These included enhancing and expanding the Indigenous Patient Liaison Program, developing and implementing Indigenous Cultural Safety Education for NH, developing Indigenous health policy, and supporting safe and inclusive work environments for Indigenous staff.

“I decided to join the health sector as I have always looked to undertake work that has meaning and purpose,” shares Roseann. 

When the opportunity emerged in 2025 to join IH’s Indigenous Partnerships portfolio, she knew it would allow her to continue important and necessary work that aligns so closely her background, experiences, and aspirations for system change.  

Now, only five months into her role at IH, Roseann says no two days are the same, which she loves. Each day brings something new, whether it’s building connections and relationships, or pursuing opportunities to support staff and physicians in creating better health experiences and outcomes for Indigenous Peoples.

Her proudest moments come from seeing teams lean into learning and meaningful change. She speaks highly of her colleagues, describing them as people who are eager to continue this work alongside her. “Being aware, attentive and responsive to what is happening with others around me is important,” she says, noting that empathy, respect and lifelong learning guide her every day.

Roseann looks forward to continuing to strengthen IH’s processes, policies, programs, and services by centering Indigenous knowledge and ways of being. She’s motivated by the chance to drive transformation in ways that uplift and center Indigenous People’s   lived experience and worldviews.   

Outside of work, she cherishes any chance to travel with her sister. Travel includes visiting family in Manitoba or attending arts-focused events. And this year brings another milestone— “I'm looking forward to moving into my new home!”

As a warm, thoughtful and values-based leader, Roseann brings both expertise and heart to the important work she does every day. 

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