Art Cunningham
Art is a retired Indigenous relations practitioner with over 35 years of experience building positive relationships with over 150 Indigenous communities in Canada and 40 tribal communities in the United States. He led initial community contacts, development policy and engagement activities, and implemented agreements and commitments made.
Proud Métis and father of a family, Art is the father of four children, grandfather of seven and great-grandfather of two. He still finds time to use his experience and advice as an advisor, board member of non-profit organizations including Circle for Indigenous Relations, Calgary Friendship Centre, Calgary and Area Children Services, Metis Xing Development Board, and former board member of the United Way of Calgary, Calgary Children and Family Services Authority and Metis Calgary Family Services.
In 1997, Art received the prestigious Chief David Crowchild Memorial Award, given to individuals who create bridges of understanding between Indigenous and non-Indigenous peoples. He was also recognized by the Rotary International Foundation when they awarded him the Paul Harris Fellowship Award for his contributions to his community. In 2005, Art received the Alberta Centennial Medal for outstanding service to the people and province of Alberta. In 2006, the Métis Nation of Alberta Region 3 officially recognized Art for his success in the business world.
“Explorer. Food advocate. Analyst. Freelance bacon practitioner. Future teen idol. Proud pop culture expert.”
