The MNO congratulates Bryanna Scott-Kay, Director of Education and Training, on receiving Lakehead University’s 2026 Exceptional Alumni Award.
The award recognizes the university’s alumni for outstanding professional achievements, community service and other significant contributions.
Presented on October 15 at Lakehead University, Bryanna was recognized for her dedication to advancing education, public health and Indigenous programming across Northern Ontario. Through her work with the MNO, post-secondary institutions, school boards and community organizations, she has helped strengthen educational opportunities and supports for Indigenous learners.
Bryanna has played an instrumental role in advancing distinctions-based Métis education across Ontario. Under her leadership, the MNO’s Education and Training branch has expanded early learning and child care programming, advanced Métis-specific education policy, supported post-secondary learners, and built stronger relationships with communities to enhance employment and training opportunities.
Originally from Fort Frances, Bryanna moved to Thunder Bay to pursue post-secondary studies at Lakehead University, where she went on to complete her undergraduate degree, master’s degree and PhD. She also began teaching and supporting Indigenous students, experiences that helped shape her understanding of both the opportunities education can create and the barriers many Indigenous learners continue to face.
“A defining part of my journey was working directly with Indigenous students and communities during my time at Lakehead University,” says Bryanna. “Through teaching, student support, and program development, I saw the difference that culturally grounded education can make in helping students feel a sense of belonging and success.”
These experiences helped shape Bryanna’s career and her commitment to strengthening Indigenous education systems, supporting learners and advocating for policies and programs that reflect the needs and priorities of Indigenous communities.
Lakehead University has played an important role in both Bryanna’s academic and professional journey, making the recognition particularly meaningful.
“As a first-generation Métis student, education transformed the opportunities available to me,” says Bryanna. “This recognition reinforces my commitment to ensuring that future generations of Métis learners have access to culturally relevant, distinctions-based educational pathways and supports.”
The MNO congratulates Bryanna on this recognition and thanks her for her continued contributions to Métis education and communities.
Learn more about Bryanna and her contributions to the MNO by clicking here.