OTTAWA, ON, Sept. 28, 2026 /CNW/ -- Today, the Honourable Marjorie Michel, Minister of Health, announced the appointment of Crystal Lennie to the Canadian Institutes of Health Research (CIHR) Governing Council. 

Ms. Lennie brings extensive experience in Indigenous health and community development to the Governing Council. An Inuvialuit beneficiary from Inuvik, Northwest Territories, she holds a Master of Public Health in Health Promotion from the University of Alberta. She has worked with the Inuvialuit Regional Corporation, served as Co-Chair of the Inuit Public Health Task Group, and contributed to national Indigenous health initiatives, community-led research, and efforts to improve health outcomes for Inuit and northern communities. 

CIHR creates new scientific knowledge and enables its translation into improved health, more effective health services and products, and a strengthened Canadian health care system. 

The Government of Canada is committed to appointing highly-qualified candidates to best serve the interests of Canadians and is committed to open, transparent, and merit-based processes for selecting Governor in Council appointees. Appointees play a fundamental role in Canadian democracy as they serve on commissions, boards, Crown corporations, agencies and tribunals across the country.  

Quotes

"I'm delighted to welcome Crystal Lennie to the Canadian Institutes of Health Research Governing Council. Ms. Lennie brings a valuable perspective based on her community health and advocacy work for the people of the North, helping to ensure health research in Canada reflects the needs of the people and communities it serves."

The Honourable Marjorie Michel 
Minister of Health 

Quick facts

• The Canadian Institutes of Health Research (CIHR) is an independent agency accountable to Parliament through the Minister of Health. Composed of 13 institutes, CIHR provides leadership and support to health researchers and trainees across Canada.  
• CIHR is governed by a Governing Council of up to 18 members who are appointed by the Governor in Council and who possess a unique background and an outstanding skill set to advance health research in the overall interests of Canadians. 

Associated links

• Ms. Crystal Lennie – Biography: Governing Council
• Canadian Institutes of Health Research (CIHR) Governing Council

SOURCE Health Canada (HC)