W
elcome to the Winds of Change 2023 National Conference Wrap-Up issue! Every AISES family gathering is something special, and if you were with us in Spokane, you will have your own memories of the friends you connected with, the thought-provoking sessions you attended, and the inspiration you came away with.
After months of hard work, your AISES staff is especially gratified that attendance at this conference — including members, exhibitors, sponsors, and friends — set a record. Numbers topped 3,351 in 2023, compared to the record-breaking 2022 attendance figure of 2,700. We are grateful to the many sponsors, listed here, who made this three-day event possible.
Every day of the conference melds the Indigenous knowledge and western science that collectively bring us closer to a brighter future.
The centerpiece of every National Conference is the College and Career Fair — the largest event of its kind in Indian Country — and the energy in every corner of the floor this year was remarkable. Exhibitors representing a variety of academic programs, global corporations, government agencies, and nonprofits were kept busy meeting with AISES students and rising professionals. For a list of the exhibitors at the 2023 College and Career Fair, click here.
From the Presentation of the Colors at the Opening Ceremony to the Traditional Powwow, the entire National Conference showcases Indigenous values, like honoring our elders who are an active presence at AISES. This year the Closing Banquet included a heartfelt recognition of Council of Elders charter member, now member emerita, Dr. Henrietta Mann.
Every day of the conference melds the Indigenous knowledge and western science that collectively bring us closer to a brighter future. I hope you enjoy this look back at the 2023 gathering and are already making plans to join us in 2024 for all the tradition and inspiration of another epic National Conference. See you in San Antonio!
Ta’Tura Tsiksu (With Much Respect),
Sarah EchoHawkPawnee Nation of OklahomaAISES President