April 8, 2022 – Beendigen Anishinabe Women’s Crisis Home and Family Healing Agency’s Board of Directors are pleased to announce that Colleen Maloney has been named as the new Executive Director of the agency, effective April 11. Debra Vermette, current Executive Director, will be retiring.

Born and raised in Whitehorse, Yukon, Colleen is a member of the Champagne and Aishihik First Nations. Growing up, Colleen learned the value of community and developed a deep connection to her Indigenous roots.

She has been residing in Thunder Bay for the past 38 years, obtaining a Bachelor of Arts in Indigenous Learning and Psychology from Lakehead University. She has built a long-standing career dedicated to advocating for Indigenous women.

Colleen spent several decades working with the Ontario Native Women’s Association in many different leadership positions. In every role, she has been passionate about ensuring Indigenous women have access to supports, services, and programs rooted in Indigenous culture and safety.

Beendigen is a familiar space for Colleen, as she was President of the Board of Directors for the past eight years. She brings to the position a wealth of knowledge and experience working as a community leader, builder, and advocate.

“I am very excited about this new opportunity with Beendigen,” says Colleen. “Beendigen provides vital services and supports to Indigenous women and families within the community, and I am honoured to join this passionate team. I look forward to building on the great work that Debra has done during her time as Executive Director.”

Beendigen welcomes Colleen, and wishes Debra happiness in her retirement and all future endeavors!

Skip to content