Praise is pouring in for Athabasca Tribal Council (ATC) CEO Karla Buffalo following the news she is being honoured with the Alumni Innovator award from the University of Alberta.

The Athabasca Tribal Council offered their congratulations to Buffalo on her recognition. In a media release, Board President of ATC and Athabasca Chipewyan First Nation Chief Allan Adam expressed his pride in Buffalo’s work and her achievements.

“I am personally very proud of this recognition of Karla’s accomplishments, and her innovative nature to create collaborations and partnerships,” said Chief Adam.

“On behalf of the Board of Directors of ATC, I congratulate Karla on this well-deserved award.”

Earlier this month, ATC declared a regional state of emergency over the ongoing mental health and addiction crisis in their communities.

The ATC serves five First Nations in Northern Alberta consisting of the Athabasca Chipewyan First Nation, Chipewyan Prairie First Nation, Fort McMurray 468 First Nation, Mikisew Cree First Nation, and the Fort McKay First Nation.

The University of Alberta highlighted Buffalo’s work during the COVID-19 pandemic, along with the partnerships she built with Alberta Health Services as a few of the reasons for her recognition.

“I know Karla is the right person to have leading the team at ATC as they support our communities once again through an urgent health crisis,” said Chief Adam.

The formal awards ceremony is scheduled for October 25 at the Citadel Theatre in Edmonton.