Photo: CNW Group

Claude Lamoureux O.C., FCIA, Chief Clarence Louie O.C., Annette Verschuren O.C., Stephen J. R. Smith.

Another honour for Osoyoos Indian Band Chief Clarence Louie, who is being inducted into the 2019 Canadian Business Hall of Fame.

Louie is being inducted this year with Claude Lamoureux, retired president & CEO, Ontario Teachers’ Plan, Stephen J.R. Smith, chairman & CEO of First National Financial, and Annette Verschuren, chair & CEO of NRStor Inc.

“The Canadian Business Hall of Fame is honoured to recognize their enduring contributions to the business community and our country,” said Hall of Fame chancellor David Denison.  

“On June 19, 2019, we will have the great privilege of highlighting their excellence in business leadership, outstanding professional achievements and dedication to bettering Canada’s social fabric.”

Louie will be the first Indigenous person to be inducted into the hall of fame. He was raised on OIB lands by his mother and was elected chief at 24 years old. He has won every election but one since 1985. Through the Osoyoos Indian Band Development Corporation, founded by Louie, the previously impoverished band has started or acquired nine businesses.

A ceremony marking his induction into the hall of fame will take place in June.