Elder Betty McKenna

Elder Betty McKenna is Anishinaabe, born in Opaswayuk (The Pas), Manitoba, with family roots in Sapotaweyak Cree Nation. A fluent language speaker and knowledge keeper, she follows the traditions of her people through ceremony and medicine gathering. She is an honoured Elder across many Nations, including the Stó:lō, Kahnawà:ke Mohawk, and the Haudenosaunee, where she holds the title of Honorary Grandmother Chief.

An accomplished author, educator, and researcher, Elder Betty is deeply committed to Indigenous health, education, and the revitalization of traditional practices and languages. She serves in numerous guiding and resident Elder roles, including at the First Nations University of Canada, the Mackenzie Art Gallery, the Canadian Aboriginal AIDS Network, and several national research and health institutions. Her leadership and lifetime of service have been recognized with multiple awards, including the Queen’s Golden and Diamond Jubilee Medals.