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*** Please note that the Joseph T. Norton Willis Scholarship
is no longer available. ***
Joseph Tokwiro Norton is a leader. Born in the Mohawk
territory of Kahnawá:ke, Quebec, he attended
school and played lacrosse. Qualified and union member
of the Ironworkers of America, worked on heavy building
projects in northeastern US. First elected to public
office, Mohawk Council of Kahnawá:ke, 1978. Two
years later, Mr. Norton won office as Grand Chief, post
held until retirement in 2004.
For more then 20 years, Chief Norton has exhibited the
highest standards of dedication, loyalty, and perseverance
in leading his community. He has been involved in education
for many years and cares greatly about the future of
our youth. In July, 2004, Norton ends his office in
good standing, total of 26 years of public service of
which 24 were as Grand Chief. Norton left office with
a surplus in the budget and 2% unemployment rate and
top notch administration that is accountable and transparent
with regular reporting mechanism to the community.
Joseph Norton continues to represent
First Nations and their issues throughout the world.
He serves on several Boards of Directors including TeKnoWave
Inc. His exemplary leadership has resulted in the Mohawks'
achievement of significant cultural and economic presence
within the Aboriginal community, and commands respect
in Canada as a whole. Through his strong leadership
skills, he is truly setting the standards for the next
generation.
Major achievements are: Kahnawá:ke Gaming Commission,
Kahnawá:ke Economic Development Commission, and
Mohawk Internet Technologies. Promoted indigenous culture
with creation of the Kahnawá:ke Kanienkéha
(Mohawk) Language Literacy Certificate Program. In conjunction
with Willis College of Business and Technology established
the Joseph Tokwiro Norton Scholarship, an annual award
for Aboriginal youth to pursue a high technology career.
He is recipient of Recipient 2002 of the National Aboriginal
Achievement Award for community development.
Mr. Norton is presently a special consultant for The
Federal Bridge Corporation Limited, a founder and CEO
of Turtle Technologies and CEO of Mohawk Internet Technologies.
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