Two Native American leaders, Robin Greymountain of the Sault Ste. Marie Tribe of Chippewa Indians and Shannon Martin of the Match-E-Be-Nash-She-Wish Band of Pottawatomi, have joined Western Michigan University as its first elders in residence. The initiative is part of a new program funded by the Native American Heritage Fund and aims to provide support for Native students while enriching the broader campus community.
Martin expressed her enthusiasm about joining WMU: “I’m excited to share space with the students and build on an already vibrant Native American community at Western Michigan University.” Greymountain highlighted the significance of intergenerational engagement: “Generational support is so important. This program will help to create a culture of understanding and support not only for Native students but also throughout the whole University for all students interested in Indigenous culture.”
Both elders were selected after a comprehensive search led by WMU’s Native American Affairs Council and the Native American Student Organization (NASO). Over the next year, they will hold regular office hours on campus and participate in events focused on sharing traditional knowledge and cultural teachings.
Dr. Dee Sherwood, director of the Native American Affairs Council, noted, “Native and Indigenous students bring unique strengths, values and perspectives to the University learning environment. One of those strengths is a deep appreciation for the role of elders in families and communities as teachers.”
The Elders in Residence program allows students to seek guidance from elders on topics such as coping with stress, finding balance, and improving well-being. Sherwood added, “Shannon and Robin will offer vitally important support to Native and Indigenous students, and students of all backgrounds, cultures and faiths.”
Student involvement was key in designing this initiative. Shabanaa Bush, NASO secretary and aerospace engineering student, said: “The Elders in Residence program is something that supports intergenerational learning and provides connections to community and culture. It provides a sense of belonging and pride.”
Robin Greymountain has experience in elementary education administration. She is involved with organizations like the National Indian Education Association while pursuing a doctoral degree at WMU focused on Native American education in public schools. She emphasized her commitment: “Whatever I do I don’t do on my own; I do it in representation of my people—especially as an Indigenous woman… It’s not just about my ancestors behind me; it’s also the children and future generations coming ahead of me, because what I do today and how I support them will affect them later in life.”
Shannon Martin serves as executive director of Cultural Pathways Group LLC—a firm that helps clients navigate cultural differences—and previously directed Ziibiwing Center of Anishinabe Culture & Lifeways. She also serves on several national boards related to Indigenous studies.
Martin stated: “This program is important in its affirmation and representation. North American Indian students need support from someone who understands their family histories and personal experiences and can help make sense of the challenges they face.” She believes that bringing firsthand knowledge into classrooms can strengthen allyship across campus.
Western Michigan University enrolls more than 17,000 students according to its official website. The university supports inclusive excellence for all learners (source) through programs such as this one aimed at fostering belonging among diverse groups.
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