An inspirational role model, she has been described as one of the most successful female leaders in the history of Saskatchewan.

Chief Tammy Cook-Searson of Lac La Ronge Indian Band (LLIB) received an honorary degree, Doctor of Laws, honoris causa at the 42^nd University of Regina (U of R) convocation.

LLRIB Chief Tammy Cook-Searson with U of R President Vianne Timmons.

Dean of Education, Jennifer Tupper, introduced Cook-Searsons to the dignitaries, graduates and guests and told them of all the contributions and numerous accomplishments of a committed mother, leader and businesswoman.  

“There is nothing she is not capable of doing,” said Tupper.

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Cook-Searson thanks her parents for teaching her the culture, language and the pride of heritage they instilled in her. She acknowledged the support from her husband who at times had to be the lone parent at home and to her in-laws who helped in looking after the family and last but not least her friends.

 “I’m feeling really blessed and honored to be an honorary degree recipient. I share this honor with the people that have given me knowledge and wisdom over the years, especially the Lac La Ronge Indian band, the people that I represent,” said Cook-Searson.

When asked how she manages to do it all, she answers that you have to find a balance.

“You have to take the time to look after yourself, because if you don’t look after your health it starts to weigh in on you and all that you do affect you twenty to thirty years down the road.”

To find her balance, Cook-Searson said that she started running and it helped her to reflect and get into shape.

“I wasn’t always in shape. I used to chew Copenhagen and then I quit and then I starting running,” said Cook-Searson as she laughs at the memory.

As a leader, she said that when you have a job to do, that you do it well, “and when you’re elected to represent the people that you do it to the best of your ability.”

U of R President and Vice Chancellor Vianne Timmons said it was an easy choice to pick Chief Cook-Searson from the list of a hundred candidates.

“It’s a very rigorous process to get on the list,” said Timmons.

She explained that the person has to be nominated. The nominations are sent to the executive of council, who thin out the list of names, then the shortened list then goes to the senate, a large group of community members, they shorten the list a bit more and the final list goes to Timmons where she makes the final selection.

“I’m so proud and honored that she accepted it, she honors the University of Regina by accepting it,” she said.

Timmons said that she is in awe of Cook-Searson and the achievements of strong women should be celebrated.

“In this time of Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada, we need to really pay attention to the accomplishments of First Nations people, there’s so much that has been accomplished and she is the example of that,” said Timmins.

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In her speech, with her newly attained title, Dr. Tammy Cook-Searson said that the people of Saskatchewan have to keep moving forward and keep in mind the large Indigenous population and honoring the treaty relationship.

“Ekosi, Kahkinaw kinanâskomitinawaw, thank you so much and I’m very proud of all the graduates today,” said Cook-Searson in her closing statement.