GlobalMindED

???What an insightful time we had at the "Brave Solutions: Fueling Our Economic Future" event! Thank you to our co-host, the Foundation for the Support of the United Nations ; it was a dynamic platform that brought together students, graduates, industry leaders, funders, and civil society advocates. We dove into the challenges and opportunities in higher education, highlighting the crucial benefits and gaps that need our attention for a brighter future. A big thank you to our partners, sponsors, and the colleges for joining us in this critical conversation. Your dedication to addressing challenges and seeking solutions is truly invaluable. Special thanks to our sponsors— Morgan Stanley, Western Governors University, REP4, Jobs for the Future (JFF), LG Electronics, LG NOVA, and the SHRM Foundation—for their generous support in making this event a success. We're excited to announce that submissions are now open for GlobalMindED 2025's annual event! This is a fantastic opportunity for innovators, educators, and leaders to share their ideas and drive meaningful change in education. Let's keep working together to empower all voices and shape our economic future. ???? #GlobalMindED #BraveSolutions #HigherEducation #Empowerment #EconomicFuture #Collaboration #InnovateForChange Janet C. Salazar, Carol J Carter, Dr. Lynn M Gangone, CAE, American Association of Colleges for Teacher Education (AACTE), John King, The State University of New York, American Association of Colleges and Universities (AAC&U), Lynn Pasquerella, Chuck Welch, American Association of State Colleges and Universities (AASCU), Scott Pulsipher, Fram Virjee, AGB (Association of Governing Boards of Universities and Colleges), Alison M. Pendergast, Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, Derrick Watchman, MBA, Lisette Nieves, Fund for the City of New York, Maria Dayton, Pierre Theodore, Dr. Paula Hopkins, Liz Elting, Raj Echambadi, Illinois Institute of Technology, Vivienne Ming, Dave Toole, Corey Layne Crouch, AI for Education, Aiyanna DeFreitas, Samuel P. Lalanne, Colorado State University Pueblo

For over 70 years, the National Congress of American Indians (NCAI) has united Native American tribes to protect sovereignty, promote self-determination, and drive social justice. Founded in 1944 to counter harmful assimilation policies, the NCAI remains a powerful advocate for Indigenous rights. Key efforts include shaping federal policy, uniting tribes to tackle shared challenges, and raising awareness about Native cultures and issues. With landmark achievements like advancing the Indian Self-Determination Act and protecting land and water rights, the NCAI continues to address health disparities, environmental justice, and sovereignty battles. Read on to learn more about the National Congress of American Indians.

Introducing Lucille Echohawk, a citizen of the Pawnee Nation of Oklahoma, has dedicated over three decades to championing Native American child welfare and strengthening Native-led organizations. As a former Strategic Advisor at Casey Family Programs and Executive Director of the Denver Indian Family Resource Center, she built bridges with funders and policymakers to support Denver’s tribally diverse Native community. Inspired by her Pawnee heritage and mentors who emphasized the power of service, Echohawk’s career has focused on creating opportunities for vulnerable children and families. Her journey includes co-founding key nonprofits and raising awareness of Native-led human services. Now retired, she remains committed to empowering Native youth through education and collaboration with organizations like GlobalMindED, continuing her legacy of service and advocacy. Read on to learn more about Lucille Echohawk's story.

Each November, we honor the history, cultures, and contributions of Native American and Alaska Native peoples. Despite enduring centuries of hardship—from displacement to systemic discrimination—Indigenous communities continue to thrive, preserving their heritage and shaping modern society. National Native American Heritage Month invites us to celebrate their resilience, learn from their stories, and support their ongoing efforts to overcome challenges while honoring their vital contributions to our nation.

As a member of the Pawnee Nation and the first Native American graduate of The University of New Mexico School of Law, John Echohawk’s groundbreaking career has shaped the landscape of Native American law, championing tribal sovereignty, water rights, and environmental protection. Echohawk co-founded Native American Rights Fund (NARF) in 1970 and has served as its Executive Director since 1977.?His leadership in landmark legal cases has empowered Indigenous communities nationwide. In 2023, the American Bar Association honored him with the Thurgood Marshall Award for his extraordinary contributions to social justice. The GlobalMindED 2024 Conference proudly hosted John Echohawk, as a panelist on its policy track. At GlobalMindEd, Echohawk joined a distinguished panel to discuss diversifying the legal profession, sharing insights that reflect his lifelong commitment to equity and systemic change. Read on to learn more about John Echohawk's story.

Introducing Former U.S. Senator Ben Nighthorse Campbell, a trailblazing Native American leader of Northern Cheyenne descent, left an indelible mark on American politics and advocacy. Serving Colorado in Congress from 1987 to 2005, including as chairman of the Senate Indian Affairs Committee, Campbell became the first Native American elected to the Senate. His career spanned remarkable achievements, from advancing Native American rights to addressing critical national issues like water preservation in the West. Campbell’s life, marked by early hardship and resilience, fueled his commitment to empowering marginalized communities and mentoring young leaders. A former Olympic judo competitor and accomplished jewelry designer, he brought creativity and determination to every role he undertook. After retiring from politics, Campbell continued to advocate for Native American issues while championing equity and opportunity. Read on to learn more about Ben Nighthorse Campbell's journey.

GlobalMindED is delighted that Morgan Stanley Wall Street Executive and International Women's Forum leader and GlobalMindED Inclusive Leader Award winner, Carla Harris, visited Grand Valley State University President, Dr. Philomena Mantella?and her REP4 and fabulous students. Both of these remarkable female leaders had met last year at GlobalMindED/Foundation for the Support of the United Nations event in New York City where leaders, faculty and students were able to meet each other and share experiences and professional wisdom. GlobalMindED is a proud partner of REP4 and supports their leaders, Presidents, faculty and students.?Many of these leaders at all levels from their nine supporting colleges will be in Denver in June 2025 to share their experiences with and to learn from you. https://lnkd.in/gCsXCQeu International Women's Forum, AACSB, Carla Harris, Grand Valley State University, Morgan Stanley, Joyeuse Murerwa, Jesse M. Bernal, Ph.D., Philomena Mantella

Meet Don Kelin, President and CEO of CADDO Solutions and proud member of the Caddo Nation of Oklahoma, who has built his company into a national leader in office products, IT, and security solutions. Overcoming challenges with perseverance and vision, Kelin has earned accolades like National Indian Business Owner of the Year while securing major federal contracts. Rooted in his dual heritage and shaped by experiences in sports and military service, Kelin is deeply committed to empowering Native communities. Read on to learn more about Don Kelin's story.

Native Americans have a distinguished history of military service, answering the call to defend the nation in every major conflict since the Revolutionary War. Their bravery and ingenuity, exemplified by the Navajo Code Talkers during World War II, have left an enduring mark on American history. Despite their significant contributions, many Native American veterans face unique challenges, including limited access to healthcare, mental health resources, and support for reintegration. Read on to learn about the inspiring stories of Native American veterans and how their resilience continues to shape and strengthen their communities and the nation.