Dr. Elvi Whittaker

Biography

Elvi Whittaker is Professor Emeritus with extensive experience in anthropology. She has held prominent roles, including the President of the Canadian Anthropology Society and the President of the Social Science Federation of Canada. Her academic journey includes significant contributions to UNESCO as the Chair of the Scientific Screening Committee on Management of Social Transformations. With an Honorary Fellowship at Ranchi University, India, and a visiting professorship at the Centre for Tourism Culture Change at Leeds Metropolitan University, UK, Whittaker's influence extends internationally. Her research has primarily focused on qualitative methodologies, ethics, sociological knowledge, and issues surrounding indigenous intellectual property rights. Notably, her MA thesis involved fieldwork conducted in 1959, exploring nursing practices at Vancouver General Hospital, where she later served as a counselor and lecturer. Her scholarly work includes contributions to the Nursing Careers Project funded by the National Institutes of Mental Health and resulted in the book 'Silent Dialogue' alongside numerous articles. Recognized as a founding member of the Canadian Anthropology Society’s Women’s Network, she has been honored with multiple awards, including the Weaver-Tremblay Award for Distinguished Service and a Lifetime Achievement Award.

Research Interests