Don Deranger Retires

November 7, 2024 in News
Explorer: Fall 2024

Don Deranger has retired from the Board of Directors of Points Athabasca and Cameco Corporation. Originally from Fond du Lac, Don has had a long and impactful career marked by a commitment to Indigenous communities, economic development, and leadership.

Don’s influence went beyond corporate boardrooms. As a Special Projects Coordinator for six years with Saskatchewan Northern Affairs in the 1990s, during which he helped set up the Athabasca Basin Development, and as former Athabasca Vice Chief of the Prince Albert Grand Council between 2003 and 2012, he was instrumental in advancing economic partnerships prioritizing community growth and sustainable industry.

His nearly 25-year leadership since the construction company Points Athabasca began illustrates his legacy of fostering meaningful employment opportunities for Indigenous peoples in northern Saskatchewan.

“I have always believed in building strong partnerships that reflect our community’s values and future,” Don said.

Don is particularly proud of the first large contract that Points Athabasca secured for building the hospital and health centre in Stony Rapids in the early 2000s. “It was special because it was a big project right in our backyard to support our people and made by our own northern Indigenous company,” he said.

Don brought a wealth of experience in the mining, construction, and resource sectors when he joined Cameco’s board in 2009. Over his 15-year tenure, he contributed towards Cameco’s strategic direction, ensuring the company’s commitment to sustainable practices, Indigenous engagement, and community investment. “Working with Cameco has been a unique opportunity to ensure that Indigenous voices are not just heard but are integral to decision-making at the highest levels. I was there to ensure that our Indigenous protocols were followed, and that our values were considered when communicating with northern communities,” he said.

Beyond his board work, Don was a key advocate for Indigenous training and employment programs, believing local communities should benefit directly from industry presence. His role with Athabasca Basin Development and his advocacy for education, especially for young Indigenous people entering the workforce, have left an indelible mark.

“Our future lies in ensuring that young Indigenous people have access to education and opportunities that will allow them to thrive in today’s world. I wish I could have done more for the youth to get them involved in economic development and the communities so they would stay away from alcohol and drugs and instead build themselves up and support their people and communities. Youth must understand that they must be active and productive citizens. We must help them understand that it is their responsibility to balance economic development and protect our land, culture, and environment for future generations and our Athabasca region. If I could go back in time, I’d spend more time with the youth to tell them all of that,” Don said.

In reflecting on his career, Don is both proud and hopeful. “While I am stepping down, I know that the work will continue. We have built strong foundations, and I am confident that our partnerships will ensure that Indigenous communities continue to prosper. I look forward to seeing young people taking leadership roles, and I would be happy to sit down with any of them to share my experience and help them find their way in the future.”

Now, Don is finally taking time to relax, go fishing, and go fall hunting. “I just turned 69; hopefully, I can be around well into my 80s and enjoy a quieter life with my family,” Don said with a smile.