Leah Stroobants, who is a cultural engagement specialist and a member of the Oneida Nation of Wisconsin, joined NIU students, faculty and staff in exploring the culture, traditions and contributions of the Oneida Nation. The event was sponsored by the College of Health and Human Sciences’ advising team and the College of Business’ LRS Undergraduate Student Success Center. 
“It is important that NIU faculty, staff and students are culturally aware of diverse populations that make up the communities we work and live in,” said Nicole Holland, director of advising for the College of Health and Human Sciences and member of the Oneida Nation of Wisconsin. “Events like these provide an educational opportunity for all those involved and remind us to consider traditionally under-represented an underserved populations as we make potentially impactful decisions in how we interact with one another.”
Participants connected with artifacts and engaged in activities to gain a better understanding of Oneida history and culture. Guests were also provided an Indigenous-themed lunch, which included “Indian Tacos.”
Student Robert Phelan was pleased to be able to attend the event.
“What resonated with me was the option to interact with the items of cultural significance to the Oneida people,” he said. “Furthermore, it was fascinating to learn and, in some cases, witness what role each item held in both a practical and cultural sense.”
Holland agreed, adding that students were excited about learning.
“Everyone who attended had fun identifying plants commonly used as Indigenous medicines and racing each other to sort corn, bean, and squash seeds,” Holland said. “They also asked great questions and received a lot of great information from Leah.” 
It was a good learning experience for anthropology student Emma Bell.
“The Oneida cultural event taught me about the lifeways and history of modern Oneida people in Wisconsin,” Bell said. “I wanted to support this event because it was able to inform me about a group I didn’t know much about, and as an archeologist, it is part of my duty to listen to Indigenous voices.”
