About Us

Turtle Island Center for Excellence in Environmental Research & Education (TIC)

Our Story

The Turtle Island Center for Excellence in Environmental Research & Education began with a shared vision between Ken Meawasige and Michael J. Newnham.

Originating on the North Shore of Lake Huron, they imagined a place where Indigenous knowledge and modern science could come together to protect the land and inspire new generations of learners. From that moment grew a non-profit organization rooted in environmental research, cultural education, and sustainable innovation, guided by First Nations leadership and partnerships across Canada.


Founders

Co-Founder and CEO – Ken Meawasige, Honours BA, Political Science & Native Studies (Laurentian U)

Ken Meawasige, Serpent River Firs Nation

Ken believes the land is the greatest educator. A graduate of Laurentian University with a double major in Political Science and Native Studies, Ken’s career spans land research, youth justice, and community leadership. As former President of the N’Swakamok Friendship Centre and representative to the Ontario Federation of Friendship Centres, he brings decades of experience in governance and youth empowerment. His vision for TIC is to unite Elders and youth in hands-on, land-based learning.

Co-Founder and Research Director – Michael J. Newnham, Honours BSc, BEd (Western U)

Michael J Newnham, London, Ontario

Michael is an educator, researcher, and curriculum innovator based in London, Ontario. He co-founded The Learning Fire—a K-12 program that blends Indigenous worldviews with augmented reality and inquiry-based science. A former Smarter Science Director for Youth Science Canada, Michael has trained thousands of teachers and worked with First Nations across the country. His work bridges education, technology, and environmental stewardship, making learning a tool for reconciliation and regeneration.



Board of Directors

Director – Elder Raymond Owl

Ray Owl, Sagamok FN, Ontario

A respected Elder from Sagamok Anishinabek First Nation, Raymond has dedicated his life to protecting the environment and preserving Indigenous rights. His leadership against aerial spraying and his advocacy for Traditional Ecological Knowledge (TEK) have inspired environmental action throughout the Robinson-Huron Treaty territory.

Director – Dr. Douglas Boreham, Honours Biology (Laurentian U), PhD (U Ottawa)

Dr. Douglas Boreham, NOSM, Sudbury, Ontario


A professor and Division Head of Medical Science at the Northern Ontario School of Medicine, Doug is a leading expert in radiation biology and environmental health. His research links science with community well-being, supporting safe practices and environmental restoration across Northern Ontario.

Director – Ray Hatfield, Honours B. Commerce (Laurentian UU), Law Degree (Queens U)

Ray Hatfield, Sagamok FN, Ontario


An Anishinaabe from Sagamok Anishnabek, Ray served over 35 years in the Federal Public Service, holding key roles in lands, environment, and natural resources. He continues to advise on land stewardship and mapping, drawing from deep knowledge of treaty and governance systems.

Director – Elder Art Pehtategoose

Art Pehtategoose, Whitefish Lake FN, Ontario



Professor Emeritus from Whitefish Lake First Nation, Art is known for merging Indigenous knowledge with modern education. His lifelong work in cultural preservation and environmental teaching bridges academic and traditional wisdom, enriching learning across generations.

Director – Elder Caroline Gloria Recollet, BA, Political Science and Government (U Kitchener/Waterloo); Reverend, Sacred Arts (Lynn Andrews School of Sacred Arts & Training); Masters Env. Science, First Nations/Government/Resource Sector Relations (York University)

Caroline Recollet, Wahnapitae First Nation, Ontario

A proud member of Wahnapitae First Nation, Caroline has devoted her career to Indigenous youth, housing, and advocacy. Her service on friendship centre boards, treaty negotiations, and social programs reflects her deep commitment to community empowerment and justice.

Director – Elizabeth Porter, LL.B. (U Windsor)

Elizabeth Porter, Oshweken, Six Nations, Ontario



A legal professional based in Ohsweken, Elizabeth leads Porter Law, serving individuals and businesses with integrity and expertise. Her community work and legal practice reflect her dedication to fairness, advocacy, and the protection of Indigenous and local rights.


Incorporation

The Turtle Island Center for Excellence in Environmental Research & Education (TIC) is dedicated to advancing Indigenous-led research, education, and environmental sustainability. TIC operates within the Robinson-Huron Treaty territory and is guided by principles of reciprocity, respect, and relational accountability..

Turtle Island Center for Excellence in Environmental Research & Education (TIC) is a non-profit, non-partisan Research & Education centre incorporated by Ken Meawasige, a full status Anishinaabe and Michael J Newnham, a British-born Canadian.

Corporation number: 1078830-9
Established 2017

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