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Songhees First Nation opens new year with new executive director

Chief Ron Sam sees Songhees First Nation well positioned for ongoing success in 2022
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The Songhees Wellness Centre, meeting place for the First Nation’s administrative and governing bodies. The Songhees recently appointed Katherine Lagrange as their new executive director. (Courtesy of Songhees First Nation)

The appointment of Katherine Legrange as the Songhees First Nation’s new executive director is among the first actions of the Nation’s new council.

Lagrange began her term as executive director on Jan. 4.

“We are pleased to have Katherine join the Songhees Nation in this important role,” Chief Ron Sam said in a release. “She brings exceptional skills and valuable experience that will help move the Nation forward in our vision and goals.”

As executive director, Lagrange is responsible for the day-to-day operations required to maintain accountable governance, finances, human resources and community engagement for the Nation.

She works directly with the Songhees council, helping to advance their priorities throughout Lekwungen territory.

Newcomer Margaret Charlie joined re-elected Chief Sam and re-elected councillors Garry Albany, Karen Dick-Tunkara, Jackie Albany and N. Garry Sam at the council table after last June’s community election. Charlie graduated from the University of Victoria’s school of social work in 2013, having specialized in Indigenous contexts.

“Songhees is fortunate to have such talented and passionate people as elected representatives, and as members of our community,” Chief Sam said, also thanking Charlie’s predecessor Don Albany for his hard work and service to the Nation over the previous four years.

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“We look forward to continuing the work of council to improve the lives of our members, creating new opportunities and building collaborative relationships with local governments in Lekwungen territory and all levels of government. With a strong council, a new executive director and the growth of our economic development initiatives within Songhees Development Corporation, our Nation is well positioned for ongoing success in 2022,” Sam said.


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