Dr. Kii’iljuus Barbara Wilson

Adjunct Professor | she/her/hers

Kii’iljuus (Barbara Wilson) was presented a “J paddle” by Git Kinjuaas, her brother and Kilslaay (Hereditary Leader) at her Master’s Thesis defence in 2019. As Git Kinjuaas presented her the paddle, he said, “You are a Navigator.”

Barbara started working for Canadian Fishing Company on the Scow in Haida Waters, Skidegate Landing when she was only 13. She was a Hostess at the Indians of Canada Pavilion at Expo 67 in Montreal, trained through the National Film Board (NFB) in all aspects of Cinematography, and a Cultural Liaison Specialist including the co-management of the Haida Gwaii Watchmen Program (HGW) with Cindy Boyko, Manager of the HGW program and representing Skidegate Band Council (SBC) . Barbara retired from Gwaii Haanas National Park Reserve in 2012 after 30 years of service with various government agencies.

In addition to teaching and designing the content of courses with Dr. Andrea Reid, she provides lectures for Simon Fraser University's School of Education and the School of Resource and Environmental Management. Kii'iljuus is also involved with International projects highlighting Revitalizing Ancient Knowledge of Marine or Ocean People around the Pacific Rim’s Ancient “Common Bowl”.

Her life is blessed with 3 great grandchildren, 19 grandchildren, 4 children, 2 surviving siblings, many cousins, friends here and in various places around the world.