What will it mean to students and others?

MARLENE INMAN:
Marlene studied American History her first time around in college. She returned later seeking greater knowledge and understanding, believing that understanding American History also from a Native American perspective was important. This is what inspired her to obtain a degree in Native American Studies.

"In learning about Native American culture, one of the things that struck me most was that in their societies everyone had a place - including those who were, for example, disabled or mentally ill. This has transformed my world view. Having a dedicated space - in which these types of transformations in perspective could occur - is invaluable." - Marlene Inman '01 (B.A., Native American Studies)

RENO CHARETTE:
Reno serves in a Cabinet-level position advising Montana Governor Brian Schweitzer and all of Montana on relationships and perspectives in Indian Country. While growing up, in her grandparents' home, she learned the art of storytelling - and from those stories, she learned the importance of helping others and that "there is honor in being of service to your community."

"American Indian students who attend The University of Montana will benefit from the welcoming environment provided by a building that reflects their cultural heritage. They will feel a sense of empowerment and belonging in the university environment where they can share, grow, and thrive in a community that appreciates cultural diversity. Just as all university buildings are a statement of perpetuity, the Native American Center represents a commitment to the study of American Indian issues, dedication to American Indian achievement in higher education, and respect for the ongoing contributions of American Indian tribes and culture to the state of Montana."
- Reno Charette '90 (B.A., Liberal Arts)
Enrolled Member of the Crow Tribe
Coordinator of Indian Affairs,
Office of the Governor of the State of Montana

"I wholeheartedly endorse the efforts of The University of Montana to construct a building that will serve as the Native American
Center. Salish Kootenai College has manystudents that transfer to The University of Montana to do graduate work or complete bachelor degrees. The Native American Center will provide valuable support for them. The new center will be a place of pride and belonging for all the American Indian students. It will provide a place that will promote understanding of American Indian
people for all."
-Joe McDonald '58 (B.A. Education), '65 (M.A. Ed.), '82 (Ed.D.)
Enrolled Salish Member
President, Salish Kootenai College

CONRAD LAFROMBOISE:
Conrad has been involved in Indian education from the early 1970s when he served as the Dean of Academic Affairs of Blackfeet Community College. His passion is assisting others
through the educational system in whatever way is necessary.

"A building of this nature will legitimize the connection of American Indians and the university. A new facility will serve all tribes within the region and nation. Ever since I can remember the largest number of any one tribe at the university has been Blackfeet, yet I know that as years have come and gone, many more tribal groups are being served with the same interest and care that were given to my tribal group. Indian students have been-and I hope always will be-an integral part of the university, and a new building will solidify the university's commitment to them and their tribes.” - Conrad LaFromboise '80 (B.A. Education), '81 (M.A. Ed.) Enrolled Member of the Blackfeet Nation Director, Blackfeet Higher Education Program

VINA LITTLE OWL:
In June 2006, Vina began working as a corporate auditor with Nike, Inc. at their world headquarters in Beaverton, Oregon. She hopes to one day use her accounting skills to return to her reservation and help her people.

"The challenge faced by American Indian students is that of achieving success in a system entirely different from that of their own communities and traditional teachings. Centralizing Native American Studies and student service resources will contribute to the experience, resource availability, and network opportunity for students. A facility for students to interact, work, and support each other will enrich their educational endeavors and aspirations to succeed at The University of Montana." -Vina Little Owl '06 (B.S. Accounting) Gros Ventre Tribal Member Corporate Auditor, Nike, Inc.