Art Cunningham
Knowledge Keeper, Bridge Builder, and Champion of Indigenous Relations
Focus Areas
Indigenous Relations Training Program, Community Engagement, Cultural Agility Coaching, Indigenous Awareness for Corporate Canada
Art Cunningham has spent more than 35 years walking the path of reconciliation—not with fanfare or ego, but with humility, persistence, and a deep belief in the power of relationships to transform systems. A proud Métis man and founder of Roundtable Consulting, Art is a respected Knowledge Keeper and Indigenous Relations Practitioner whose life’s work has centered on creating space for Indigenous voices in corporate boardrooms, government offices, and community initiatives.
Art’s career has spanned both public and private sectors, including 30 years as the Senior Corporate Indigenous Policy Advisor for TransCanada Energy. His ability to navigate complexity and build lasting trust across differences has made him a sought-after advisor, facilitator, and mentor. Currently, Art serves as Business Relations Liaison for the Otipemisiwak Métis Government (formerly Métis Nation of Alberta), where he helps advance meaningful economic partnerships rooted in respect and reciprocity. He also serves on the boards of Métis Crossing, Momentum, and the Circle of Wisdom Elders & Seniors Centre, where he mentors future leaders and guides conversations that honour Indigenous knowledge and experience.
A founding director of the Circle for Aboriginal Relations (CFAR), Art has long believed that dialogue and understanding are the foundation for real change. He is also a former Chair of the Calgary Chamber of Commerce’s Aboriginal Opportunities Committee, and a past co-chair of Children and Family Services. His contributions have shaped countless organizations including United Way Calgary, the Calgary Friendship Centre, and the Calgary Aboriginal Women’s Shelter—where his leadership and steady hand have opened doors for deeper learning and collaboration.
Since 2017, Art has co-instructed the University of Calgary’s Indigenous Relations Training Program with Anne Harding, delivering the Indigenous Peoples and Resource Development module. Their longstanding partnership reflects a shared commitment to honest, practical learning—grounded in story, humour, and experience. Art and Anne also continue to work together through community-based initiatives like the Indigenous Gathering Place Society of Calgary, where Art serves as a respected Elder advisor.
Art’s work has been recognized many times, including the Chief David Crowchild Memorial Award for building bridges between Indigenous and non-Indigenous communities, the Paul Harris Fellowship Award from Rotary International, and the Alberta Centennial Medal for outstanding service to the people of Alberta. But for Art, the greatest reward has always been the chance to bring people together and see understanding take root.
With a quiet wisdom and unwavering integrity, Art continues to walk alongside others on the journey of reconciliation. His legacy is not just in the policies and projects he’s shaped—but in the countless individuals he’s influenced through his mentorship, generosity, and commitment to a better future for all.