Ms. Susanne Thiessen

Credentials

DBA, MBA, BA, CPHR

Biography

Susanne Thiessen is an assistant professor in the School of Public Administration at the University of Victoria (UVic). With a distinctive Gitxsan/Scottish Canadian lens, she approaches her work from an Indigenous rights-based perspective. Her research and focus revolve around Indigenous resurgence and the imperative of decolonizing organizational structures, policies and processes. To actively contribute to the work of decolonizing, Susanne adopts a critical and Indigenous-wholistic perspective on Western-centric organizational and research practices that have historically excluded Indigenous voices. Her approach involves reclaiming and repositioning Indigenous cultural practices and knowledge, and amplifying their strengths. Additionally, she aligns her efforts with broader goals related to anti-racism and equity. Susanne is the recipient of the Nəc̓əmaat kʷəns čeʔi ʔay̓ šqʷeləqʷən | ĆȺNEUEL OL ÍY, ŚḰÁLEȻEN | Work together with a good heart and mind Award for Decolonization and Anti-Indigenous Racism. Susanne’s pedagogy, epitomizes the principles of interconnectedness and responsiveness, guiding her impactful work in decolonization and Indigenous-specific racism.  Susanne invites her learners to recognize their unique positionalities, world views and passions. Her innovative field trips and the Indigenous Community Development program she champions are just a few examples of how she immerses students in Indigenous prosperity and sustainable practices while fostering critical engagement with global and local impacts.

Susanne has collaborated with national and provincial governments and Indigenous organizations, contributing to the creation of programs and policies that respect and honour Indigenous worldviews, ways of being, and ways of doing. Her commitment lies in fostering meaningful engagement and promoting Indigenous perspectives.