Lonny Potts – Director, sitoskam iyiniwatisiwin; Known for his gentle demeanor and sense of humour, Lonny has devoted his life to his culture and his people – through traditional ceremony and as a drummer and powwow singer.
He is Stony-Sioux and Cree from Paul First Nation in Wabamun Lake, Alberta and has been an Elder’s helper for over 30 years – travelling Turtle Island seeking wisdom from his ancestors. Lonny has worked in several post secondary institutions, served as a cultural lead in AHS, and as a lodge holder within the corrections system. In these roles, he has lead men’s circles, sharing Indigenous protocol and tradition. In his Director role At Boyle Street, he utilizes his knowledge of sitoskam iyiniwatisiwin to embed the teachings across the organization. Lonny supports IRM as a helper, a pipe carrier and a lodge keeper. He is also available to IRM students to share his cultural knowledge to provide them with guidance and mentorship.