The First Peoples Innovation Centre welcomes its Executive Director, Jacques Dalton.
Jacques Dalton is Métis from Northern Alberta, with roots in the historic communities of Lac Ste. Anne and the Red River, as well as the L’Hirondelle and Cunningham families, among others. He is a husband, the father of three adult children and a grandfather, and has lived in Ottawa since 2007. He brings extensive experience to his work with the First Peoples Innovation Centre, guided by a deep commitment to advancing Indigenous reconciliation, education, and culture. His career spans educational and non-profit sectors, including teaching roles at the American University in Cairo and other institutions, as well as serving as Dean of Students at a private college. Jacques has worked with youth-focused organizations in Canada and abroad, supporting initiatives such as an International Youth Centre in Cairo, programs for street‑involved youth in Canada and Mexico, and youth summer camps. He later transitioned to the public service, dedicating 14 years to Indigenous Health Research. Jacques has contributed to Indigenous Reconciliation initiatives with Indigenous partners and served as a Director within the Reconciliation Secretariat at Crown–Indigenous Relations and Northern Affairs Canada.
