Interview by Melissa Akimana

The school board would like to acknowledge the outstanding work of our long‑term employees over the years. We sat down to talk about how they’ve seen the organization grow and what they consider their biggest challenges and achievements. We also asked them about how far we’ve come and their hopes for the future! Click here to read the interviews. This will be a new monthly feature highlighting our Service Award recipients—individuals recognized for their commitment to the school board over anywhere from 10 to 40 years!

Name: Linda Wood

Department: Post-secondary education

Years of service: 32

PR: What different positions and responsibilities have you held during your years of service?

Linda Wood (LW): Secretary, office agent (principal class), administrative technician, administration officer.

PR: What keeps you working for Kativik Ilisarniliriniq?

LW: The benefits are a definite plus. Just joking. Kidding aside, the academic success of post‑secondary graduates sponsored by the school board. Being an integral part of this and contributing to their success are what keep me here.

PR: How do you feel the school board has evolved over the last 10, 20, or even 30 years?

LW: 10 years: The head office used to be situated in a vacant school in the Dorval and Notre‑Dame‑de‑Grâce (NDG) areas. Student Services used to be in the head office but later moved to the Sainte‑Anne‑de‑Bellevue office. Another change was the introduction of computers, Internet, and various technology upgrades.

20 years: The head office moved to Ville Saint‑Laurent. The Education Services Department was completely relocated to Kuujjuaq. We had a lot of growth in all departments, from 2–3 people to sometimes over 10 people. And finally, new schools and adult education centres were opened in Nunavik.

30 years: Past post-secondary graduates are now in key executive management positions at the school board. The number of sponsored students has increased tremendously, and the creation of Nunavik Sivunitsavut is a very positive development.

PR: What was your proudest moment while working for KI?

LW: Undefeated in a throat‑singing contest (almost five minutes!). Also, being personally thanked by our graduates for making a difference in their experience.

PR: Advice for new employees?

LW: Take the time to learn and respect the culture.

PR: What do you enjoy doing in your spare time (hobbies, interests, passions)?

LW: Downhill skiing, travelling, F1 racing.

PR: If time, money, and responsibility weren’t an issue, what would you do?

LW: Live life to its fullest with family and friends while travelling, skiing, and attending all World Cup downhills and Grand Prix events worldwide!