Dr. Christopher Mushquash

Doctor of Laws, honoris causa

For his devotion to advancing Indigenous mental health, his innovative work to improve the quality of life and care for Indigenous youth and communities, and for the impact of his research in influencing federal funding policies for First Nations, the university proudly confers upon Dr. Christopher Mushquash the honorary degree of Doctor of Laws.  

Dr. Mushquash is a Professor at Lakehead University and the Northern Ontario School of Medicine University. He holds the Canada Research Chair in Indigenous Mental Health and Addiction. He is also Vice-President of Research at the Thunder Bay Regional Health Sciences Centre, and Chief Scientist at the Thunder Bay Regional Health Research Institute.

His research has contributed significantly to national understandings of mental health and addiction, particularly in relation to developmental and intergenerational trauma. His work has helped improve clinical care systems and services, ensuring they are more culturally and contextually responsive to the needs of Indigenous, rural, and northern communities.

Dr. Mushquash holds an Honours Bachelor of Science and master’s degree from Lakehead University, and a doctorate in Clinical Psychology from Dalhousie University. As a registered psychologist with the Ontario College of Psychologists, he provides assessment, intervention and consultation services for First Nations communities. In 2023, he was honoured with the Canada Gairdner Momentum Award for his exceptional scientific research and its lasting impact on human health.

He is also an inductee of the Royal Society of Canada’s College of New Scholars, Artists and Scientists. He serves on the boards of the Canada Foundation for Innovation, and the George Jeffrey Children’s Centre in Thunder Bay.

Dr. Mushquash is an Anishinawbe (Ojibway) from Pawgwasheeng (Pays Plat First Nation). His wife Aislin is from Oshawa.