Short Description
Bemidji State University’s Indigenous sustainability studies program announces new leadership as Ann Humphrey steps in to innovate the curriculum with an Indigenous perspective on environmental issues.
Read Time
4 minutes 15 seconds
Main Article
Bemidji State University (BSU) recently made waves by announcing new leadership for its groundbreaking Indigenous sustainability studies program. Ann Humphrey, who has been an integral part of the university’s American Indian Resource Center since 2018, will now serve as the faculty lead of the program. The initiative, which debuted as a minor in fall 2018 and expanded to a Bachelor of Science degree soon after, uniquely integrates Indigenous knowledge with environmental sustainability, offering students an enriching educational experience that few programs in North America can match.
Backed by a generous $600,000 grant from the Margaret A. Cargill Foundation, the program is named Niizhoo-Gwayakochigewin, an Ojibwe term meaning "two ways of doing the right thing in the right way." This title captures the essence of blending traditional Indigenous practices with modern sustainability principles. Under Humphrey’s leadership, the curriculum is poised for a transformative redesign that will make the educational experience more student-friendly while enhancing engagement with local Indigenous communities. Collaborating with a dedicated team of faculty, they aim to create a program that not only educates but also empowers students to tackle environmental challenges from diverse perspectives.
A focal point of Humphrey’s vision is to emphasize the three pillars of sustainability—environmental, social, and economic—through an Indigenous lens. Courses will explore traditional ecological knowledge within the context of modern sustainability issues, providing students with unique insight into Indigenous sovereignty and treaty rights. The curriculum will also maintain strong experiential components, including a summer internship program that engages students with real-world sustainability projects. Given Humphrey’s extensive background and relationships within relevant communities, the program is set to enhance students’ skills and career prospects significantly.
As BSU continues to grow this innovative initiative, its emphasis on incorporating Indigenous thought processes into sustainability education will be crucial. Supporting Indigenous sovereignty through education prepares students for meaningful careers, especially in fields interfacing with tribal nations. BSU aims to equip graduates with the tools necessary to become culturally aware and responsive professionals capable of addressing the complex sustainability challenges of our time.
Short Summary
In summary, Bemidji State University’s Indigenous sustainability studies program, now under the leadership of Ann Humphrey, is set to enrich its curriculum by emphasizing Indigenous knowledge and involving students in real-world sustainability projects. As the program grows, it prepares graduates to be culturally competent leaders in sustainability, making a meaningful impact in their communities.
