Jessie Williams Joins the 2021 Beedie Luminaries Selection Committee

Beedie Luminaries welcomes Jessie Williams as the newest member of its Selection Committee.

“Higher education is essential in advancing personal, communal, cultural and economical well-being. It also provides space for individuals from all walks of life to connect and discover together. Yet some with the potential to succeed still experience barriers to pursue their passions in post secondary education. I am honoured to support the work of Beedie Luminaries, collaborating to create opportunities for youth brilliance to be nurtured”!– Jessie Williams

Jessie Williams is a member of the Sḵwx̱wú7mesh Úxwumixw, Squamish Nation, and of mixed European decent.  Leaning on her lived experience and elder teachings, Jessie commits to being a connector and a relationship holder.

Jessie is the first of her immediate family to obtain post-secondary degrees (Bachelor of Business Administration and a Master of Educational Administration and Leadership).  This has inspired her meaningful career which includes senior roles in kindergarten- grade 12 and post-secondary Indigenous-focused educational governance, policy, strategy, programs, services, and administration.

Currently, Jessie serves as the Director of Indigenous Relations for the Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences at Simon Fraser University.  Focused on creating space for open heart and open mind conversations, Jessie advocates for educational frameworks that respect and build on Indigenous and Eurocentric Knowledge systems.

Jessie passionately commits to promoting whole human well-being and fulfillment.  This includes creating opportunities for others to step into their personal power, for themselves, and for each other.