Dr. Lisa Monchalin, a criminology instructor at Kwantlen Polytechnic University (KPU), has been named a Member of the Royal Society of Canada’s College of New Scholars, Artists and Scientists.
This prestigious recognition honours emerging intellectual leaders across Canada who have demonstrated exceptional accomplishment.
“I’m honoured to be selected. It’s both humbling and affirming to have my work acknowledged at this level,” says Monchalin. “I’m deeply grateful and thankful to all of those who helped along the way and have provided their unwavering support throughout my research journey to help me get to where I am today.”
Monchalin is renowned for her research on the colonial impacts of the overrepresentation of Indigenous Peoples within the criminal justice system.
A proud citizen of the Métis Nation of Ontario, Monchalin is investigating Métis-Anishinaabe laws from the Upper Great Lakes to offer new insights into preventing over-incarceration, addressing wrongful convictions and reducing systemic injustice for Indigenous Peoples.
“This recognition supports the importance of my research and provides an opportunity to ensure it is included in national conversations. I look forward to continuing this work,” she says.
Monchalin has advised national organizations and has spoken locally and internationally in an effort to champion meaningful reform in justice systems. She is also the author of The Colonial Problem: An Indigenous Perspective on Crime and Injustice in Canada.
“This recognition is a testament to Lisa’s unwavering leadership and commitment towards reducing the systemic inequalities faced by Indigenous Peoples in Canada,” says Dr. Shelley Boyd, Dean of KPU’s Faculty of Arts. “We’re incredibly proud of Lisa, and look forward to seeing her continue to make an impact at the national level.”
Monchalin is among 59 distinguished leaders across Canada selected for this recognition, which was announced on Sept. 3, 2025.
The Royal Society of Canada will induct its 2025 Fellows and Members at a ceremony on Friday, Nov. 14, 2025 in Montréal, Québec.