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How Can Grinnell College Deepen Its Engagement with Indigenous Knowledge and Climate Action?
What if Grinnell could forge stronger connections with Native and Indigenous communities? What if Indigenous knowledge played a bigger role in shaping our fight against climate change? What if our curriculum centered these crucial perspectives in bold new ways?
These are the questions that inspired the Center for the Humanities to embark on a three-year journey exploring the intersection of Indigenous knowledge, climate change, and the liberal arts.
A Transformative Conversation
This past fall, we welcomed leading scholars and educators who challenged us to rethink history, language, and identity:
🌿 Dr. Ned Blackhawk (Western Shoshone) – Reframing American history through an Indigenous lens.
🌿 Dr. Eric Zimmer – Uncovering the origins of the Meskwaki Settlement.
🌿 Bailey Dann ’17 (Shoshone-Bannock) – Sharing a powerful, personal story on preserving the Shoshoni language.
What’s Next?
This spring, we are honored to host renowned creative writers Ray Young Bear (Meskwaki) and LeAnne Howe (Choctaw). And next fall, we dive into STEM with Dr. Frank Lake and Dr. Stephanie Quinn-Davidson ’03 (Brotherton Indian Nation), who will explore the cultural significance of fire and fisheries conservation.
Looking Ahead: A Call to Action
Our journey culminates next spring in a landmark symposium bringing together all these ideas. Dr. David Treuer (Ojibwe) will deliver the keynote, and we aim to assemble a dynamic panel that will inspire action, ensuring Indigenous perspectives take root in Grinnell’s curriculum and campus life.
But we can’t do it alone. We need your support.
Join us in shaping the future of this vital conversation. Stay engaged, spread the word, and be part of the movement toward a more inclusive, informed, and climate-conscious Grinnell.
NEW CHALLENGE ANNOUNCED: To keep the momentum going, the Board of Trustees is offering a challenge. Trustees will contribute an additional $197,000 if we reach a total of 2,500 donors by 5 p.m. CT today.
476 days ago by Jillian BeukemaWe’re thrilled to share that we’ve met the International Donor Challenge — with more than 40 donors from outside the U.S. showing their support for Grinnell students!
Because of this incredible global response, Bill Mohrman ’66 will contribute $50,000 to the Institute for Global Engagement, helping students turn knowledge into action around the world.
476 days ago by Jillian BeukemaThanks to the incredible support of alumni, families, and friends from all 50 states + D.C., we’ve officially met the 50 State/D.C. Challenge! 🌎❤️
Because of so many generous donors, Bill Mohrman ’66 will give $50,000 to the Institute for Global Engagement, supporting students as they learn, explore, and lead around the world.
This is what coast-to-coast Grinnell pride looks like—thank you for uniting to make a global impact!
476 days ago by Jillian BeukemaTeams have been busy spreading the word during this year's Scarlet & Give Back Day! The excitement is building and the competition is heating up! Here's where things stand in the team leaderboard:
1st Place: Choral Callers2nd Place: Swim/Dive
3rd Place: ODEI
4th Place: Tennis, Team RED/Finance, Center for Humanities, and IGE
Keep it up, teams! There's still time to climb the leaderboard and bring it home. Every post, message, and gift helps make a difference for Grinnell students!
Scarlet is celebrating 10 years of giving back with the Grinnell community! From campus to around the world, Grinnellians are showing up to make a difference—together.
