Laara Fitznor is one of three recipients selected to receive the 2014 Frontier Achievement Award, with Chief Phillip Buck and Faron Ettawacappo.

The Frontier Achievement Award was established by the Frontier School Board in 1998 to recognize and honour the achievements of Frontier graduates and those who have attended a Frontier school (home placement). Candidates demonstrate outstanding career or lifetime achievement in a variety of fields such as community service, sports, law, education, health and business.

An assistant professor with the department of education administration, foundations and psychology, Faculty of Education, Laara Fitznor is a member of the Nisichawayasihk Cree Nation. She began her elementary education in Wabowden and later attended Frontier Collegiate Institute. After leaving high school she attended the University of Manitoba as a mature student, graduating with a Bachelor of Arts in Sociology. She continued with her education and earned a Masters of Education degree in Educational Psychology and her Doctorate. She is a published author and lecturer and has received numerous awards and accolades for her work including Educator of the Year, Manitoba Hydro Spirit of the Earth, and Aboriginal Circle of Educators awards. Dr. Fitznor has excelled in the field of education including the promotion and development of Aboriginal and multi-cultural education.

Her nomination was accompanied by many testimonials that included:

• On June 21, 2013, the University of Manitoba was honoured by the TRCs announcement that the University of Manitoba would host the National Research Centre for Residential Schools, an announcement that would not have been possible without the work of Dr. Fitznor and her committee. This work represents a contribution to this country that should not be underestimated. (David T. Barnard, Ph.D., President and Vice-Chancellor, University of Manitoba)

• During my time in school Laara was always there for students and worked to help them succeed. Even though there were over 100 students in the ACCESS Programs at the time, Laara know who they were, what they were studying and how many kids they had. Without the support of Laara and other dedicated staff, many of the students would not have made it through the program. (Marti Ford, Area 3 Superintendent

• Dr. Fitznor has spent over 30 years kindling a love of learning and instilling peace and understanding in all those fortunate enough to have worked with or been taught by this remarkable educator. (David Mandzuk, Ph.D., Dean of Education, University of Manitoba)

Dr. Fitznor accepted her award at ceremonies held as part of the 36th Annual School Committee Conference on February 12, 2014.

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