June 19, 2025
For National Indigenous Peoples Day, we highlight the impact of First Nations Executive Education (FNEE) and its partners — an initiative propelled by Executive Education HEC Montréal since 2021.
Ghislain Picard’s Nomination: A New Chapter for FNEE
The recent appointment of Ghislain Picard as Associate Professor at HEC Montréal marks a new stage in the development of FNEE. A leading figure in Indigenous leadership, he is actively involved in the school’s governance, helping to expand its reach and visibility.
On May 22, around fifty people gathered to mark his appointment and reaffirm the unique foundation of FNEE: a school for and by First Nations. The presence of key partners — including the AFNQL, the FNQLEDC, the FNQLHSSC, founding members Hydro-Québec, TD Bank Group, L’Oréal, and the Government of Québec, as well as several program partners — made this evening a meaningful moment filled with gratitude and solidarity.
“Together with our partners, our participants, and our communities, we are building an inclusive, ambitious school deeply rooted in Indigenous realities. The co-construction of FNEE, supported by Executive Education HEC Montréal, continues the tradition of excellence of this institution, known for the quality of its teaching and research.”
Partners’ Contribution: Beyond Financial Support
FNEE’s Indigenous and non-Indigenous partners actively contribute to its visibility, influence, and long-term sustainability — engaging First Nations leaders and aspiring new allies to support its mission.
Involved in the partnership strategy since the very beginning of the FNEE project, Jean-Marc Gauthier emphasizes the importance of a strong network to ensure its success:
“The long-term economic growth of communities and their leaders depends on access to high-quality education. Our partners’ contributions go far beyond financial support: they form a true network of committed organizations, creating meaningful opportunities for visibility, collaboration, and economic connection. I’m proud to be actively involved in this renewed momentum and to continue my commitment alongside dedicated allies.”
Proud of the journey so far, he expresses confidence in the momentum this initiative will gain in the years to come. He warmly welcomes the appointment of Ghislain Picard, whose leadership and dedication are set to amplify the strength and reach of the partner network — opening a promising new chapter for FNEE.
For example, partner organizations:
- Actively participate in FNEE’s governance through its advisory committee
- Take part in its on-demand training programs
- Engage in its Economic Reconciliation Program
- Invite Indigenous leaders to their major events
Moreover, thanks to generous financial support, FNEE offers participants the opportunity to:
- Access training programs free of charge
- Participate in programs held at HEC Montréal
- Support the co-creation of educational content based on the concept of Etuaptmumk, or Two-Eyed Seeing
- Benefit from community-based learning experiences
- Contribute to reconciliation through Indigenous and non-Indigenous collaboration
A strategic lever: collaboration with the HEC Montréal Foundation
The HEC Montréal Foundation plays an active role in the school’s development. Thanks to its expertise in philanthropic engagement, it identifies and cultivates impactful partnerships aligned with FNEE’s mission. This close collaboration helps build long-lasting relationships with companies, foundations, and institutions committed to supporting high-impact projects for Indigenous communities. Together, the teams combine their efforts to turn ambitions into concrete actions—for the benefit of current and future generations.
“Since 2021, I have had the privilege of sitting on FNEE’s advisory committee as a representative of the HEC Montréal Foundation. We deeply believe in this long-term initiative. In philanthropy, as in First Nations values, the idea of intergenerational transmission is essential. Strengthening the skills of Indigenous leaders creates lasting benefits for communities—both today and for generations to come. In this spirit of collaboration and respect, we rally companies, foundations, and institutions to support FNEE and its partners.”
FNEE counts on the commitment of more than twenty partners. Each year, this circle continues to grow, reflecting the collective momentum that carries its mission and amplifies its impact in communities.
Since its creation, FNEE has enabled over 950 leaders from the 11 First Nations of Quebec to receive training in an environment that respects Indigenous identities and cultural values. This innovative, one-of-a-kind model is rooted in the Mi’kmaq concept of Etuaptmumk, or Two-Eyed Seeing—bringing together traditional knowledge and the best of contemporary management practices.
➲ Find out more about First Nations Executive Education.