Campbell University came together to honor Native American Heritage Month with a lively expo around Academic Circle, celebrating the rich culture, traditions, and contributions of local Native communities.
The event featured interactive tables with crafts and food sampling, a Drum and Dance Exhibition by Smokey River and local tribal dancers in full regalia, and a special guest author talk and book signing with Dr. Orin Starn.
Attendees experienced Native traditions firsthand, learning about the symbolism, history, and spiritual significance of traditional dances, as well as exploring culinary and artistic practices at the interactive tables.
Dr. Starn’s presentation, focusing on the life and legacy of Ishi, the last member of California’s Yahi tribe, offered insight into the challenges and resilience of Native communities.
“It was a wonderful experience to be at Campbell to help celebrate Native American heritage month,” said Dr. Starn.”
Through performances, hands-on activities, and educational discussions, the event demonstrated Campbell University’s commitment to cultural awareness, community engagement, and leadership development.
“We always appreciate any opportunity to showcase the vibrancy of our community and educate others about the impact that our Native American tribes have had throughout history,” said Cutler Bryant, SGA Class President, and proud member of the Lumbee Tribe.
Beyond cultural celebration, the event highlighted Campbell University’s ongoing partnership with the American Indian Leadership Development Program, an initiative designed to strengthen leadership within North Carolina’s tribal communities.
North Carolina is home to the largest American Indian population east of the Mississippi, and this program provides emerging tribal leaders with practical skills, mentoring, and collaboration opportunities to support Native Nation Building.
“This year’s Native American heritage month expo was a wonderful event that allowed Campbell University to highlight the month of November as Native American heritage month,” said Dr. Bryant. “It’s important for Campbell to welcome the NC tribes to campus with our brand of hospitality because it increases the engagement with these local communities.”
Under the guidance of Dr. Al Bryant, a member of the Lumbee Tribe, Campbell works to cultivate leaders who will positively impact their communities and preserve Native cultural heritage.
The expo also emphasized ways the Campbell community can get involved. Students, staff, and local residents can participate in cultural programs, attend leadership events, support initiatives like the American Indian Leadership Development Program, and engage with local tribes through collaborative projects.
“One goal is allowing Campbell to live out its mission to these community partners. Another goal is for these community partners to go away from Campbell telling our story to all they encounter,” said Dr. Bryant.
The university encourages everyone to explore Native traditions, learn from tribal leaders, and contribute to sustaining the leadership and vitality of North Carolina’s Native communities.
By fostering partnerships with tribal communities, the university continues to create a space where heritage, education, and leadership intersect—offering meaningful opportunities for students and the wider community to learn, celebrate, and grow together.
“Seeing representation from so many of our state tribes was powerful and heartwarming, and it truly demonstrated Campbell’s commitment to building meaningful relationships with our Indigenous communities,” said Sunny Myers, local community member in attendance.
