Former Educator Bridges Lived Experience With Philanthropy
Claudia E. Whitehawk, BEd'08, is an Anishinaabe woman from Cote First Nation and a proud graduate of First Nations University of Canada. Claudia’s work is rooted in her lived experience and a deep commitment to advancing Indigenous education, reconciliation, and student success. A former educator turned Development Officer at the University of Regina, Claudia advocates passionately for Indigenous education, student success, and reconciliation in higher learning. Her work bridges lived experience with philanthropy, helping create meaningful opportunities for Indigenous students and communities.
Position
Development Officer, Philanthropy
Area of Focus
Faculty of Media, Arts, and Performance (MAP), Faculty of Education, Indigeous Engagement Office, Indigenous Student Services
Tell us about your role as a Development Officer and what it entails.
As a Development Officer at the U of R, I have the privilege of building meaningful relationships with people, businesses, and organizations who are passionate about education and community impact. My role involves connecting donors with opportunities to support students, research, and programs, particularly those that uplift Indigenous voices and experiences. I work closely with faculty and university leadership to identify funding needs, write proposals, and both engage and steward donors in ways that reflect the values and intentions of our supporters. It’s incredibly rewarding to help turn generosity into real, lasting change.
What was your work experience prior to taking on your current role?
Before stepping into my role as a Development Officer, I was an educator for 15 years, teaching students from kindergarten to grade 12. Being a teacher is an incredibly meaningful and dynamic profession, and one that requires empathy, adaptability, and fierce advocacy. Those years in the classroom taught me how to listen, build trust, and uplift young people. That same passion now guides my work in development, where I continue to champion education, just from a different angle.
What motivated you to pursue this career path after having served as an educator for so many years?
Teaching will always hold a special place in my heart. It’s one of the most impactful and selfless professions, and I carry a deep respect for the educators who continue to shape lives every day. After 15 years in the classroom, I felt a need to grow in a different direction and in a way that would allow me to continue supporting students and communities, but in a wider, more systemic way. Stepping into the world of philanthropy gave me the opportunity to continue advocating for equity in education, while helping shape the resources and support systems that transform lives. It was both a personal and professional decision rooted in my desire to create lasting change and open new doors for future generations, particularly Indigenous students.
What are some of your favourite hobbies and passions?
I’ve always had a deep love for art and creativity. I’m also writing a memoir, which has been both healing and empowering. Staying physically active is a big part of my life as well. I love running outdoors and taking in nature whenever I can. And above all, being a mother to four amazing children is one of my greatest joys. While it can be a challenge to carve out time for myself, motherhood is a beautiful, complex, and deeply rewarding journey that shapes everything I do.
Banner photo credit: Claudia Whitehawk.