Interim Academic Lead, Dr. Deanna Nyce
Interim Academic Lead, Dr. Deanna Nyce, B.Ed., M.Ed., PhD.
As Academic Lead (interim) for the National Collaborating Centre for Indigenous Health (NCCIH), Dr. Deanna Nyce is responsible for upholding the vision and direction of the centre. This includes leading the implementation of the strategic plan as set out by the NCCIH Advisory Committee. Dr. Nyce also provides guidance, mentorship, and direction to NCCIH staff, affiliates, and trainees.
Dr. Nyce has a Bachelor of Education from the Native Indian Teacher Education Program at the University of British Columbia (UBC). She also earned a Master Degree in Education Administration from UBC’s Tskel Program and a PhD in Interdisciplinary Studies, also from UBC.
Dr. Nyce is a former high school teacher, university professor, and the Aboriginal Education Coordinator for the Province of B.C. She is the President and Chief Executive Officer of Wilp Wilxo’oskwhl Nisga’a Institute, which she helped found in 1993. The institute provides post-secondary education and training to people in the Nisga’a community in northwestern B.C. through affiliations with other post-secondary institutions. It also works to ensure the survival of the Nisga’a language and culture.
Dr. Nyce has been a member of the Advisory Committee for the NCCIH since 2023.
Dr. Nyce is noted for her contribution to Indigenous post-secondary education in Canada and beyond. Her research and publications have provided a template for Indigenous curriculum development. She has advocated for Indigenous education with the B.C. Ministry of Education and the Ministry of Post-Secondary Education and Future Skills. Dr. Nyce has lectured and taught in many B.C. education institutions and is an adjunct professor with the First Nations Studies Department at the University of Northern B.C. She has also given numerous presentations in Canada and internationally.
Dr. Nyce was born into the Tsimshian Nation of Kitselas, B.C. She is married to Chief Harry Nyce Sr. (Simoogit Hleek) of the Nisga’a Nation and has been a member of that Nation for many years.