Charles Weaselhead is set to receive an honourary degree from the University of Lethbridge. (Photo: U of L)

By David Opinko

Former U of L Chancellor to receive honorary degree

May 20, 2025 | 11:16 AM

The University of Lethbridge (U of L) is set to honour a prominent figure in its community.

Charles Weaselhead will receive an honorary degree at the Spring 2025 Convocation, set to take place on May 29.

He was named the U of L’s 14th Chancellor on March 15, 2019, and was the school’s first Indigenous person in that position.

The University says he made immeasurable contributions towards advancing reconciliation during his tenure.

Weaslehead was born on the Blood Tribe and grew up in the residential school system. He says he leaned on youth sports as an escape from the conditions he was thrust into and realized the importance of a good education.

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“Having grown up confronted by the challenges facing his community, he sought solutions and became interested in invoking change,” reads a media release from the U of L.

He turned his attention to health issues in the early 1980’s, taking on roles such as director of the treatment centres, Napi Lodge and Poundmaker’s Lodge, director of the Blood Indian Hospital and CEO of the Blood Tribe Department of Health.

Weaslehead would serve as the Chief of the Blood Tribe for 12 years, starting in 2004. During that time, he was appointed Treaty 7 Grand Chief and held the Health and Education portfolio for the Treaty 7 Chiefs.

“One of Weaselhead’s greatest strengths is his collaborative approach that galvanizes community participation and support,” says the U of L. “By exploring new and innovative partnerships, all while protecting and advancing the sovereignty of First Nations, he is able to tackle dire issues of housing, poverty, community violence and other social and health concerns.”

He was also at the forefront of securing a $15 million investment from the Mastercard Foundation to dismantle educational barriers and support employment opportunities for Blackfoot youths.

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