For the first time in UNBC history an alumni has been elected as a premier in Canada.
Currie Dixon graduated from the university with a Masters of Arts in Political Science in 2011 and is now the premier-elect for the Yukon.
Dixon told Vista Radio his topics of study at UNBC have prepared him greatly during his time in provincial politics.
“So, when I was studying in UNBC, a lot of the things, we talked about, debated about and discussed over the course of my time there, is directly relevant to my time in government in the Yukon.”
“I am very grateful for the lessons I learned and the support I received after I graduated from there. I am very proud to be elected here in the Yukon and to be a graduate of the University of Northern British Columbia.”
Dixon added it didn’t take long for him to enter the political game after graduating.
“Shortly after I graduated in the spring of 2011, I entered politics and was elected and became an MLA and a cabinet minister for the Darell Pasloski government.”
The Premier-designate sees a lot of similarities in terms of between the Yukon and Northern B.C. including Prince George.
Ranging from punching above its weight, to be resource-based economies.
“We have a lot of linkages and connections between us. The Yukon is a resource-based economy and we have a significant chunk of land up here and population. The development of our resources offers the best opportunity for the creation of good-paying jobs and economic opportunities and I think that is the same for Prince George and the north or the Yukon.
He stated some of his priorities is to see upgrades in health care, housing and invest resources into upgrading electricity assets.
Prior to becoming premier-designate, Dixon stepped away from politics between 2016-2020 working in the private sector in the public service before becoming leader of the Yukon Party in an opposition role from 2021-25.
Dixon’s victory marks the end of nine years of Liberal government in the Yukon, the last four of which saw the party’s minority government supported by the NDP.
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