b'LEADERSHIP SPOTLIGHTwas language, DeGagn explains. ItA number of years before he took onevery aspect of the organizations might not seem connected at first,the role of CEO at Indspire, DeGagnwork. Reconciliation is a big part but it is. Language is culture. Culturehad been in conversation with theof what Indspire does, DeGagn is healing. And all of it is wrappedorganization and said, If this posi- explains. We acknowledge the in education. tion ever comes open please letexcellence of individuals through me know. When the opportunitythe Awards. We acknowledge the The understanding that learningfinally came, it felt like a dream rolepotential excellence of individuals and healing are inseparable becamefor all the opportunities to helpthrough scholarships. We support a defining thread in his leadershippeople. His personal connectionthem in that work.philosophy. Education, for DeGagn,to the organization made it even isnt just about degrees or creden- more meaningful. Under DeGagns leadership, tials; its about restoration. Its aboutIndspires growth in research returning people to themselves, theirWhen he arrived at Indspire, hisand data collection also reflected communities, and their stories. philosophy of relationships informedthis same principle: that the FROM LAUREATE TO LEADERIn 2018, DeGagn stood in a blackCLEAN WATER EDUCATIONsuit waiting to walk the stage to receive his Indspire Award for Public Service. Once a young man raised by two public servants, there heIN AND OUT OFwas at a key inflection point in his career, being recognized for hisTHE CLASSROOMoutstanding work among Indigenous communities across the countrythe lessons his parents taught him woven throughout every aspect of his leadership.The Indspire Award meant a lot to me, he reflects. In my life and career trajectory, but really also personally. I thought, If I can be a part of an organization that does that, Im happy to do it.When DeGagn received his Indspire Award, he spoke about relationships as the foundation of reconciliation: Relationships are our essence. Reconciliation will be accomplished when we see ourselves as part of a community of relationships to which we all belong, and to which we have a duty.That belief, he says, had long guided his work during his 17 years with the Aboriginal Healing Foundation. What survivors missed most, DeGagn recalls, was relationships with community, with family, withwaterfirst.ngosiblings. The act of repairing those bonds became central to his under-standing of healing and leadership.2025indspiration19'