Born and raised in Moose Factory, Ontario, Lorrie Deschamps is a proud member of Moose Cree First Nation. A lifelong learner, she earned her Bachelor of Arts degree from Lakehead University in 2008 and has dedicated more than three decades to advancing education in First Nations communities.
Lorrie joined Oshki-Pimache-O-Win: The Wenjack Education Institute in April 2009 as the Community Liaison and Student Recruitment Officer. Over the years, she’s held several key roles, including Business Coordinator, Assistant Program Director, and Program Director. In June 2020, she was appointed President.
Lorrie's career has been defined by her unwavering commitment to Indigenous education and her passion for creating pathways to success for First Nation learners. Much of her work has focused on supporting students from Nishnawbe Aski Nation communities. Her leadership continues to shape a vision of equality, inclusion, and opportunity within indigenous led post-secondary education.
Since 2019, Lorrie has served as a board member of the Indigenous Institutes Consortium (IIC), representing seven Indigenous-owned and operated post-secondary institutions in Ontario. She was elected Chair of the IIC in June 2025 and will formally assume the role on January 1, 2026, continuing her advocacy and leadership at the provincial level.