85Charlie Dennis, Executive Director of UINR, has taken a leave of absence from his duties at the Institute. Recently elected as Chief of Eskasoni, he is unable to continue as Executive Director due to his commitments as Chief. He will, however, continue to be involved with UINR as a member of the Board of Directors and with other UINR initiatives.

The Board of Directors has appointed Lisa Young as Interim Executive Director. Lisa has been involved with UINR since its inception in 1999 and previously she held the positions of Director of Administration and General Manager. Before her involvement on the administrative side of things, Lisa worked as a biologist on many research projects on the Bras d’Or Lakes and on moose management in the Highlands. A graduate of York University, Lisa’s interest in natural resources found a good match at UINR.

Lisa notes “I have been working with Charlie for almost 10 years and have learned a lot from him in that time. Charlie has built a strong team at UINR and has great confidence that things will continue to thrive while he is gone. I’m glad he is able to take the time that is needed to help revive his community as Chief and I am pleased to be able to help.”

Chief Charlie Dennis had this to say, “Appointing Lisa as Interim Executive Director was an easy decision. She has been involved since day one, and I have always looked to Lisa for help and support over the years. I couldn’t be more comfortable with leaving her in charge.”

charlie @uinr.ca

From UINR Marten – Vol.3. Issue.2 – Summer 2007