Academy of Community Engagement Scholarship (ACES)

Lana Whiskeyjack

Inducted in
2026

University of Alberta

Associate Professor, Faculty of Arts – Women and Gender Studies
Assistant Vice President, Office of Research

Photo of Lana Whiskeyjack

Biographical Abstracts

Dr. Lana Whiskeyjack, a proud member of the Saddle Lake Cree Nation, is a nêhiyaw indigiologist and associate professor at the University of Alberta. As a leading voice in spirit-centered Indigenous health, she spearheads vital community-based research to prevent gender- and sexual-based violence through nêhiyaw ways of knowing. By integrating arts-based practices, visual storytelling, and the life-giving Cree language, she drives transformative wellness initiatives. Her acclaimed work includes pioneering ceremonial transitions for 2SLGBTQ+ kin and advancing rematriation-based self-determination for Indigenous men and boys, masterfully bridging ancestral wisdom and contemporary scholarship to foster lasting systemic change and vibrant, holistic community well-being.

Areas of Expertise

  • Gender- and sexual-based violence prevention
  • Indigenous knowledge
  • Arts-based and visual methodologies
  • Kinship-based community development
  • Rematriation governance and leadership