Royal Society of Canada

Professors Dr. Christopher Mushquash and Dr. Sarah Olutola of Lakehead University will be inducted into the Royal Society of Canada’s (RSC) class of 2025.

Dr. Christopher Mushquash becomes an RSC Fellow. He is a member of the Pawgwasheeng (Pays Plat First Nation) and is recognized for his contributions in Indigenous mental health and addiction research, clinical care, and training.

His work with Indigenous peoples blends traditional knowledge and modern science. Mushquash is the director of the Centre for Rural and Northern Health Research at Lakehead University, chief scientist at the Thunder Bay Regional Health Research Institute, and vice president of research at the Thunder Bay Regional Health Sciences Centre.

Dr. Sarah Olutola joins the RSC’s College of New Scholars, Artists, and Scientists. She is recognized for her work in Black critical theory, African and African diasporic postcolonialism, and social justice.

Olutola is an associate professor at Lakehead’s Department of English. She also writes young adult literature under the pen name “Sarah Raughley,” through which she has published the Effigies series and The Queen’s Spade. Her writing uses both academic research and creativity to spark conversations on topics including race, gender, and imperialism.

Lakehead President and Vice-Chancellor Dr. Gillian Siddal congratulated the professors.

“The recognition of Dr. Mushquash and Dr. Olutola by the Royal Society of Canada celebrates their significant contributions to understanding and advancing people, culture and society– building frameworks to support Indigenous youth and communities, and inspiring more inclusive futures,” said Siddal.

To join the Royal Society of Canada is a prestigious honour for academics, only offered to those considered leaders or great contributors in their fields.

Dr. Mushquash and Dr. Olutola will be formally inducted into the RSC on November 14.