[4] Kusugak received a BEd in 1996 through the Nunavut Teachers Education Program provided by Nunavut Arctic College (NAC) and McGill University, where she is listed as an adjunct professor.

Prior to her appointment as deputy commissioner, she was an adult educator at NAC in Rankin Inlet.

[5][6] On 11 April 2010, Kusugak became the acting Commissioner of Nunavut with the expiry of Ann Meekitjuk Hanson's term and served until the appointment of Edna Elias a month later.

[8] As the territorial head of state, Kusugak represented all Nunavut citizens.

[9] While in office, she gave Assent to bills passed by the legislative assembly, swore in cabinet ministers, and signed off on documents, among other official duties.