Northwestern University Expands Native American Initiatives

December 3, 2018

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New fellowship opportunities for undergraduate and graduate students conducting research relevant to Native American communities and organizations is the latest result of Northwestern University’s (IL) efforts to address and rectify the historical mistreatment of Native Americans.

The fellowships are organized by the university’s Center for Native American and Indigenous Research (CNAIR). Fellows will receive faculty mentoring, a stipend, and opportunities to present research, attend talks, and explore career possibilities, according to the university’s news release.

CNAIR staff and faculty
Faculty and staff affiliated with the Center for Native American and Indigenous Research at Northwestern University pose for a group photo. (Used with permission)

In addition, CNAIR announced a new Native American and Indigenous Studies interdisciplinary concentration at the graduate school. CNAIR also continues to host workshops, collaborations, and conversations around Native American and indigenous research and issues. Last week , CNAIR hosted a symposium on indigenous sovereignty, and in February, they will co-host a panel discussion centered on Chicago as a hub for Native art and activism.

“The way that the Northwestern community has encouraged, supported, and collaborated with the new center has been very encouraging. I am excited by this progress and for what it suggests for the future,” Northwestern University Provost Jonathan Holloway said.

—Carly O’Connell

At a Glance

Member Institution: Northwestern University

Initiative: Center for Native American and Indigenous Research

Goal: Support research that is meaningful and relevant to Native communities and strengthen the university’s connection to those communities.


Become a member: As a member of ACE, you join nearly 1,700 organizations that collectively promote, protect and advocate for students, faculty and administrators in higher education. ACE is the most visible and influential higher education association in the nation, and we are at the center of federal policy debates concerning legislation that affects campuses across the country. See more on the ACE website.


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