Our Mission
American Indian Studies strives to:
- Develop a strong understanding of the languages, cultures, and sovereignty of American Indians/Alaska Natives, which honors our ancestors and their wisdom.
- Maintain productive scholarship, teaching, research, and community development; and provides unique opportunities for students and scholars to explore issues from American Indian perspectives which place the land, its history and the people at the center.
- Promote Indian self-determination, self-governance, and strong leadership as defined by Indian nations, tribes, and communities, all of which originated from the enduring beliefs and philosophies of our ancestors.
Core Values
Excellence
To foster intellectual growth and uphold rigorous standards in academic and professional work.
Collaboration
Faculty and students working in partnerships with University American Indian programs, and American Indian/Alaska Native Nations and communities.
Respect
To hold in high esteem the diversity and value of all individuals.
Native Knowledge
To appreciate and enhance Native cultures, traditions, languages, and ceremonies.
Integrity
To be honest, ethical, and accountable for one's actions, while maintaining academic freedom.