Joannie Marie Suina (Pueblo de Cochiti), Ed. D, earned a Doctorate of Education in Educational Leadership from the University of Washington in 2023. Her academic pursuits are deeply rooted in uplifting the ongoing healing endeavors spearheaded by Native American communities.

Suina's educational background is extensive, reflecting her commitment to humanities and global advocacy. She holds a Bachelor of Arts in Native American Studies and a Master of Jurisprudence in Indian Law. Her interdisciplinary approach incorporates Indigenous storytelling, rematriation, critical literacies, qualitative research methodologies, and community praxis.

As a mother of four children, she embodies her values both personally and professionally. In addition to her scholarly endeavors, Suina serves as the Director of Communications at the National Native American Boarding School Healing Coalition. Through her role, she contributes to the organization's mission of addressing the historical trauma inflicted upon Native American communities by Federal Indian Policy. Dr. Hathawitz serves on the Center for the Futures of Native Peoples Advisory Board.

Song Credit: Prayer Loop Song by Supaman

Recorded on December 11, 2024

Dr. Amanda Cheromiah reflects on her experience touring the historic grounds of the former Carlisle Indian Industrial School, this time learning and connecting in a way she never has before. Walking the same paths her Relatives once walked while the school was in operation, she is joined by her mentors, Jim Gerencser and Kate Theimer, whose dedication to archiving and preserving the stories of Carlisle students has shed light on generations of history. She explores the stories held in this space, honoring the endurance and legacy of those who came before.

Note: Please be advised that this episode includes discussions about the Carlisle Barracks Post Cemetery and its historical significance, which may be sensitive for some listeners.

This episode was originally recorded on July 18, 2024, in Carlisle, PA, and released on December 2, 2024.

Dr. Chris Nelson’s (Diné/Laguna Pueblo – she/her/hers) is Associate Professor at the University of Denver – Morgridge College of Education. As an Indigenous woman at a predominantly white university, she has learned the importance of storying to navigate settler educational systems. In her session, she will share how she connects concepts of land and non-humans beings to deepen her intentions when reconciling violent histories of Indigenous education.

Also visit Jonathan Nelson's website Badwinds Studios at https://www.badwinds.com/.

Song Credit: Know Better Do Better by Supaman