Thank you, Mr. Speaker. On March 5, 2013, Sister Celeste of Tulita was honoured with the 2013 Queen’s Diamond Jubilee Medal. She is truly an inspirational woman whose impact on families in the community of Tulita cannot be understated. She established the Fort Norman Child Development Centre in 1981 and in the 31 years since it has been open, she has given several generations of Dene and Metis community members a head start towards successful personal and working lives. A growing number of her former students are finishing up their high school and pursuing further education, and showing leadership roles in the community.
In 1995 the Child Development Centre was renamed after Sister Celeste, demonstrating the community’s appreciation for her many contributions. She is especially loved for her deep respect and appreciation of the Dene and Metis cultures, skills and language, ensuring they are taught in the classrooms.
