Our History
Established in 1984 with representatives across circumpolar Canada.
The Canadian Society for Circumpolar Health (CSCH) was established in May of 1984 at the 6th International Symposium on Circumpolar Health, which was held in Anchorage, Alaska.
In March of 1986, CSCH became a charter member of the International Union for Circumpolar Health (IUCH) in Stockholm, Sweden.
The CSCH began with 14 elected members, who made up the Executive Committee and the regional advisory board. Elected members included representatives from Aboriginal organizations and geographical regions across Canada.
Past and Current Presidents

Kimberly Fairman
2021-2024

Dr. Alex Drossos
2018-2021

Dr. Michael Jong
2015-2018

Dr. Kami Kandola
2012-2015

Susan Chatwood
2009-2012

Dr. Pam Orr
2006-2009

Earl Nowgesic
2003-2006

Mabel Horton
2000-2003

Roda Grey
1996-2000

Dr. Kue Young
1993-1996

Jean Goodwill
1990-1993

Dr. Brian Postl
1984-1990

Dr. Otto Schaefer
1919 – 2009
Dr. Otto Schaefer is considered a pioneer of the circumpolar health movement, and was instrumental in the founding of the CSCH and the IUCH.
Appointed to the Order of Canada in 1976, Dr. Schaefer was unanimously elected as Honourary President and Honourary Lifetime Member of the CSCH.