Meet Our Council

Our council is comprised of a dedicated group of volunteers. Each members brings a wealth of experience and deep commitment to serving our community.

  • Chief Shana O’Quinn
  • Vice Chief Nick White
  • Treasurer Sandra Abbott
  • Secretary Wanda White Griffin
  • Director Arlene Goosney
  • Director Pearl O’Quinn
  • Director Bruce Alexander

 

Chief Shana O’Quinn, B.A, CCMP
  • Founding member of Qalipu First Nation.
  • Certified change management practitioner skilled in implementing effective change strategies to improve. organizational performance.
  • Skilled leader of diverse groups with proficiency in communications, engagement,
    critical thinking, resistance management and achieving results.
  • Recipient of both the Indigenous Veterans Medal and the Peace Officer Exemplary
    Service Award.
  • Passionate about promoting and protecting the rights of Indigenous peoples and fostering social justice.
  • Elected to her position, March 2023
Vice Chief Nick White
  • Founding member of Qalipu First Nation.
  • Retired Warrant Officer with extensive military experience and leadership skills from a distinguished career in the Canadian Air Force.
  • Strategic thinker who supports development of effective strategies for council initiatives and decision making.
  • Passionate about addressing the needs and concerns of veterans and their families.
  • Elected to his position, March 2023.
Treasurer Sandra Abbott (BME, BGS, Med, Diploma Inclusive Ed)
  • Founding member of Qalipu First Nation.
  • Retired Teacher with 35+ years of educational experience and commitment to community.
  • Fosters an inclusive and collaborative environment through facilitation.
  • Passionate about supporting local initiatives and fostering growth for everyone within community, especially youth.
  • Elected to her position March 2023
Director Arlene Goosney, retired LPN
  • Founding member of Qalipu First Nation.
  • Contributes valuable healthcare experience and commitment to promoting healthy lifestyles.
  • Passionate about promoting health & wellness initiatives within the community.
  • Elected to her position in March 2023.
Director Pearl O’Quinn
  • Founding member of Qalipu First Nation.
  • Knowledge of Qalipu First Nation programs, services and initiatives available to the community.
  • Committed to advancing the rights and recognition of First Nations.
  • Elected to her position in March 2023
Director Bruce Alexander (P.HRC, CACII, CPT)
  • Founding member of Qalipu First Nation.
  • 30+ years of experience working with Indigenous bands and organizations, building strong lasting relationships.
  • Background in community development in fostering community growth through
    targeted initiatives and programs to address the unique needs of Indigenous
    communities.
  • Appointed by council in October 2024.
Secretary Wanda White Griffin (BN)
  • Founding member of Qalipu First Nation.
  • Retired Registered Nurse brings a wealth of healthcare experience and compassion to council.
  • Passionate about addressing the needs of the community with focus on health and seniors.
  • Appointed by council in November 2024

The Port au Port Indian Band Council is dedicated to fostering strong relationships within our communities. We invite you to learn more about our work and how we strive to make a positive impact together.

“How you respond to the challenge in the second half will determine what you become after the game, whether you are a winner or a loser.”