Northland was founded with a unique ideal to fulfill the educational aspirations of both local immigrants and Native Americans—particularly the Ojibwe bands in the Lake Superior region. With Bad River, Red Cliff, and Lac Courte Oreilles tribes located within fifty miles of the campus, the College’s relationship and commitment has only deepened through our long history.

In 1927, the Bad River community entrusted the College with a sacred Spirit Stone, used both in rites of passage and in traditional religious ceremonies. The Stone was given to the College for safekeeping and prominently displayed on campus for many years. In 1932, the Bad River Band adopted the College’s second president, Dr. J.D. Brownell, as a full member.

Northland initiated and implemented a Native American studies program in the 1970s at a time when there were few programs. We’ve since created a Native American Museum on campus. We also support an active Native American Student Association and support and help coordinate year-round events including the Northland College Powwow.

In 2011, we created the Indigenous Cultures Center to support and focus these activities under one umbrella as a way to continue to honor the commitment we made at our founding and to support the interests of our students.

2024 Fall Term Hours

Mon–Fri: 8:00 a.m.–4:30 p.m.