FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
The Verna J. Kirkness Education Foundation (VJKF) is pleased to announce the appointment of Neil Chowdhury as Executive Director. Neil assumed the role in October 2025.
Neil has been involved with VJKF since 2019, beginning as a summer student and continuing to contribute to the Foundation in various capacities over the years. Throughout his tenure, he has worked closely with the organization and its Board of Directors, bringing valuable expertise in technology, communications, and operations. His deep institutional knowledge and long-standing commitment to VJKF’s mission have made him a trusted and respected member of the Foundation community.
Neil is deeply committed to advancing VJKF’s goal of increasing the number of Indigenous students graduating from post-secondary programs in pure and applied science, engineering, and mathematics across Canada. His leadership, strategic vision, and dedication are already helping to guide the Foundation in a strong and positive direction.
The Verna J. Kirkness Education Foundation is delighted to welcome Neil into this role and looks forward to the continued growth and impact of the organization under his leadership.
About the Verna J. Kirkness Education Foundation
The Verna J. Kirkness Education Foundation is a national charitable organization dedicated to increasing the participation and success of Indigenous students in science, engineering, and technology-related fields. Through fully funded, week-long research experiences at Canadian universities, VJKF provides Indigenous high school students with early exposure to post-secondary education, hands-on research opportunities, and mentorship from leading academics. Since its founding in 2001, VJKF has supported thousands of Indigenous students across Canada in exploring pathways to higher education and careers in STEM.