Laurentian University Sessional Lecturer and Sudbury Pathologist Dr. Kona Williams Appointed to the Order of Canada

July 10, 2026 — Dr. Kona Williams, a renowned forensic pathologist and sessional lecturer in the Forensic Program at Laurentian University, has been officially appointed as a Member of the Order of Canada. The prestigious appointment recognizes Dr. Williams for her transformative contributions to forensic medicine, national advocacy, and her dedicated service to Indigenous communities.

As Canada’s first First Nations forensic pathologist—of Mohawk and Cree heritage—Dr. Williams has spent her career modernizing forensic practices and strengthening death investigations across the country. Operating out of Health Sciences North in Sudbury, her work bridges the vital gap between complex medical science and culturally informed leadership.

"Being appointed to the Order of Canada is an incredible honour that I share with the communities and families I serve," said Dr. Williams. "As an educator and Canada's first First Nations forensic pathologist, my goal is to bring culturally safe, equitable practices to death investigations while inspiring the next generation of Indigenous professionals. This recognition strengthens our collective commitment to justice, system reform, and reconciliation."

In addition to her casework and national advocacy—which includes serving on the National Advisory Committee on Missing Children and Unmarked Burials—Dr. Williams is a dedicated academic leader. As a sessional lecturer at Laurentian University, she brought a brand new course, Introduction to Forensic Pathology, to Laurentian University's Forensic Program. She is deeply proud of her wonderful students, many of whom have gone on to thrive in careers across forensic science, policing, and medical school.

Dr. Williams, who is also currently expanding her leadership expertise by pursuing a Master of Business Administration at the Rotman School of Management in Toronto, plays a vital role in inspiring students and championing increased Indigenous representation in the medical and forensic sciences. She also instructs medical students at Northern Ontario School of Medicine University.

Dr. Williams is a graduate of the University of Ottawa’s anatomic pathology residency and completed her forensic pathology fellowship at the University of Toronto.