A Closer Look at Instruction and Practices in American Indian and Alaska Native Education
The White House Initiative on Advancing Educational Equity, Excellence, and Economic Opportunity for Native Americans and Strengthening Tribal Colleges and Universities (WHI TCU), along with the U.S. Department of Education and the U.S. Department of Labor, hosted a four-part, virtual dialogue series that addressed multiple topics that impact employment for American Indians and Alaska Natives.
The fourth and final dialogue focused on AI/AN health career pathways education. The dialogue offered perspectives from experts from the AI/AN community who have participated in, advocated for, and benefited from a process of indigenizing curricula, education program design, and delivery for AI/AN individuals with and without disabilities. The speakers and featured practices span generations: from early health pathways engagement in a program geared toward high school youth, to a college nursing program designed to include college students who live in remote areas, to a nurse and professor and tribal elder who has been advocating for and providing nursing education that engages students’ aspirations and culture.
Featured Speakers
- Beverly Warne, Founder, Native American Nursing Education Center, South Dakota State University
- Meggan Judge, Nursing Student, Alaska Pacific University (APU)
- JoLean Fultz, former Nursing Student, APU
- Darold H. Joseph, Assistant Professor of Special Education, Northern Arizona University (NAU)
- Lisa Lomavaya, Indian Health Services Public Relations/Coordinator for the Indigenous Pride Health Worker Program, Hopi Healthcare Center
Amanda Hunter, Native Spirit Program, Center for Health Equity Research, NAU
- Kawehi Brandow, Workforce Development Specialist, Division of Indian and Native American Programs, Department of Labor
Event Objectives
- To gain a deeper understanding of how indigenizing curriculum and practices within various Native communities leads to greater inclusion and success in college and health career pathways.
- To learn about personal journeys across generations within the AI/AN community related to health career pathways.
- To discuss promising practices, areas of need, and policy considerations related to college and career pathways success.