Ernest Chris Cholakis

Vice-Chair

Dr. Ernest Cholakis obtained his DMD (Doctor of Medicine in Dentistry) in 1982 from the University of Manitoba and his MBA in 2003 from the University of Chicago, Booth Graduate School of Business.

Dr. Cholakis is the founder and managing partner of Manitoba’s largest interdisciplinary dental and oral systemic group that cares for over 30,000 patients in multiple clinics in Winnipeg.

Academically, he is an Assistant Professor and Co-Director of Dental Practice Management Studies and was the Founding Chairperson of the Dean’s Advisory Board, Faculty of Dentistry, University of Manitoba. In 2010 he received a University Award for teaching excellence.

Dr. Cholakis is a double recipient of Her Majesty, Queen Elizabeth II, Golden Jubilee Medal in 2002 and the Diamond Jubilee Medal for his “significant professional achievements and philanthropic contributions to the province of Manitoba” in 2012.

In 2020, Cholakis was awarded the Manitoba 150 Medal for his contributions to dental health and his advocacy for the arts.

From 2014 to 2022, Dr. Cholakis served as the Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Winnipeg Art Gallery.

On May 30, 2022, the Board of Directors of the WAG awarded Dr. Cholakis the lifetime honourary title of Chairman Emeritus.

On a personal level, Ernest is married to Dr Anastasia Cholakis, Dean, Dr. Gerald Niznick College of Dentistry. Together they have four daughters.