Premier Congratulates Nunavut Deputy Commissioner

Iqaluit, Nunavut February 26, 2010 – Premier Eva Aariak congratulates Nellie Kusugak of Rankin Inlet, who was sworn-in yesterday evening as Nunavut’s new Deputy Commissioner.“Our territory spans a great distance, which is why I am pleased the Commissioner of Nunavut will now be supported in her duties by a Deputy position in the Kivalliq region,” said Premier Aariak. “Nellie Kusugak is well-respected for her extensive training, her dedication to classroom teaching, and for the contributions she makes to her community. She is highly qualified for the position of Deputy Commissioner and I wish her all the best in this new role,” said Premier Aariak.

Nellie Kusugak is a professional bilingual teacher with an extensive background in traditional and cultural education. She received the Highest Academic Achievement as a graduate with the Nunavut Teacher Education Program in 1996 and a certificate in Native and Northern Education from McGill University. Nellie has been involved in teaching for nearly twenty years and has held a number of memberships in professional associations. She is actively involved in community activities and volunteer work in her hometown of Rankin Inlet.

The Deputy Commissioner holds the position for a 5-year term. The Commissioner position, currently held by Ann Meekijuk Hanson, will expire April 11, 2010.

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For more information:

Emily Woods
Press Secretary
Office of the Premier
(867) 975-5059
Ewoods[at]gov.nu.ca