Dan Thomas

Honorary Doctor of Laws

Dan Thomas is an esteemed Anishinaabe Elder, Spiritual Leader, Knowledge Carrier, and Traditional Teacher whose work in education has made a generational difference in Manitoba.

Dan grew up on Matheson Island, just north of Hecla, and currently lives near Gull Lake. He has been an educator his entire life, starting his career as a middle school and high school teacher.

Since the 1970s, he has educated the educators, leading workshops on cultural awareness and how to integrate Indigenous perspectives into the school curriculum.

For 17 years, he was a consultant for Manitoba Education, authoring education documents for the province and First Nations. He also developed Treaty education resources for the Treaty Relations Commission of Manitoba.

During his 14 years at the Manitoba First Nations Education Resource Centre, Dan developed many print and video resources about traditional teachings.

For the past 12 years, he has been an instructor in the University’s Masters in Development Practice Program, where he teaches the course “Indigenous Thought and Worldviews,” a perennial student favourite. He also offers students many experiential learning opportunities.

The breadth of his knowledge, together with his warmth, good humour and patience make him an inspiring educator.

Dan is also a University Elder-in-Residence, providing traditional teachings, guest lectures, counselling, and guidance.

Dan possesses a profound knowledge of Anishinaabe traditional teachings and history. He is a fifth-degree Midewiwin who is known for his humility, kindness, generosity, and compassion. He is loved and respected by students, faculty, and staff, and by Indigenous people across Turtle Island.

For making foundational contributions to curriculum development in Manitoba, and for furthering Indigenous education at all levels, The University of Winnipeg is proud to bestow an Honorary Doctor of Laws on Dan Thomas.