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Council on Indigenous Relations meets for the first time at Northland College

November 1, 2011

A Council on Indigenous Relations comprised of campus and community members convened for the first time on Wednesday, Oct. 12, at Northland College. The meeting was part of an effort to form partnerships and community programs with local and regional Native peoples through the establishment of a new Indigenous Culture Center on campus.

"As the college continues to evolve, it is important for us to have sound advice about our efforts and collaborative initiatives. I am very pleased that the work of the Northland College Council on Indigenous Relations has started their work," said Michael A. Miller, Northland College President. "Northland has, since its beginning, been committed to a trusting relationship with our local and regional tribal communities. This Council will provide advice and assistance to the college as we endeavor to provide and support educational opportunities for tribal individuals, families, and communities. The Council consists of representatives of regional tribes, agencies, and universities, as well as college students, faculty, and staff. This diversity of perspective will ensure the highest quality of our services."

Representatives of the Red Cliff, Bad River and Lac Courte Oreilles Bands of Lake Superior Chippewa serve on the council. In addition, representatives of Northland College, the Great Lakes Indian Fish & Wildlife Commission (GLIFWC), the Great Lakes Inter-Tribal Council and faculty from the UW System will also serve on the council to identify common goals. The Council on Indigenous Relations advises the college president, Michael A. Miller, on issues of interest to local and regional tribes, initiatives that address the educational needs of indigenous youth, opportunities to support local Native populations and more.

"We're excited about the guidance the council can provide and potential collaboration with education directors of area tribes," said Alan Brew, Northland College Academic Dean and ex officio member of the Council. "We're excited to start thinking about programming in ways that we can help meet the educational needs of the tribes and to be partners in other initiatives that are important to their communities."

The Council on Indigenous Relations discussed qualifications for a director of an Indigenous Culture Center in its first meeting. Brew said the College hopes to post the position and solicit candidates within the next few weeks.

The Otto Bremer Foundation approved a $161,383 grant to Northland College in August for program development that encourages and supports Native American students and families seeking further education, as well as four-year degrees. An Indigenous Culture Center will be designed to enhance cultural exchanges and serve as a venue for conversations on emerging issues that face the college, tribal, and regional communities in the Chequamegon Bay area.

The Otto Bremer Foundation distributed grant money in September to fund the new program over the course of the next two years. Northland College is providing substantial financial commitment in the form of matching funds, and has committed to financially supporting these commitments in the long term. Other sources of revenue will be sought from foundations, individuals and donors to support the center and its program offerings.

Created in 1944, the Otto Bremer Foundation assists people in achieving full economic, civic and social participation in and for the betterment of their communities. This mission is based on the intent of founder Otto Bremer. His vision and longstanding commitment to communities during and after the Great Depression are carried forward today through the Foundation's work in the places that are homes and neighbors to Bremer banks. The Foundation strives to help build healthy, vibrant communities-communities where basic needs are met, mutual regard is prized and opportunities for economic, civic and social participation are within everyone's reach.

The Otto Bremer Foundation owns 92 percent of Bremer Bank, and receives an equivalent share of the bank profits that are paid out as dividends. This means that a large portion of bank profit is invested back in local communities through grants and program‐related investments.