Upcoming Events
Native American Heritage Month
"Promise of the Next Generation"
Exploring the Afro-Indigenous Story
Date: Thursday, November 5
Time: 1:30 - 3 p.m.
Location: Governors State University, Hall of Governors
Event Overview
Under this year’s theme, “Promise of the Next Generation,” the program will examine how history, ancestry, identity, and representation intersect—and why understanding these connections matters as we prepare the next generation to tell a fuller and more inclusive American story.
Event Schedule
1:30 P.M. | Welcome Ceremony
2:00 P.M. | Historical Context
The American Indian Center of Chicago
2:15 P.M. | Keynote - Afro-Indigenous Perspective
Michele Scott, Mashantucket Pequot Tribal Council
2:45 P.M. | Connecting with Community Partners
2:55 P.M. | Closing
Meet Our Presenters
Rojean Kope is a Governors State University alumna and experienced administrative and human resources professional specializing in event coordination, recruitment, employee development, and organizational operations. Her expertise includes planning educational workshops, coordinating community outreach, and supporting healthcare quality improvement. She brings strong leadership and communication skills to advancing collaborative initiatives.
Dr. Nataka Moore is a licensed clinical psychologist, Adler University faculty member, human rights activist, and Past President and current Board Director of the American Indian Center of Chicago. With more than 20 years of experience, she advances mental health, social justice, community well-being, and cross-cultural approaches to healing and advocacy.
Dr. Joi Patterson is Chief of Institutional Engagement and Excellence at Governors State University, where she advances initiatives that strengthen belonging, pluralism, and student success. A scholar, grant leader, and co-host of the Teaching and Learning: Theory vs. Practice podcast, Dr. Patterson is committed to transforming education through collaboration, engagement, and purposeful leadership.
Dr. Lisa K. Pennington is an Associate Professor of Elementary Education at Governors State University. Her expertise includes social studies and culturally responsive teaching. Her research explores social studies education, children’s literature, and approaches that help future educators engage students with diverse perspectives and often-overlooked dimensions of history.
Jessica Scott is an Emmy-nominated producer, award-winning filmmaker, and Assistant Professor of Media Studies at Governors State University. Through journalism, documentary filmmaking, teaching, and mentorship, she champions truthful and compelling storytelling. Her work elevates community voices, inspires positive change, and prepares emerging media professionals to tell stories with integrity and purpose.
Michele Scott is a Tribal Councilor and enrolled citizen of the Mashantucket Pequot Tribal Nation. An accomplished leader in health and economic development, she chairs the Tribe’s Economic Development and Health & Human Services Committees. Her service extends nationally through advocacy and leadership advancing Native communities and well-being.
Cyndee Fox-Starr, Cultural Coordinator, is an enrolled member of the Omaha Tribe with Odawa/Potawatomi heritage. Raised in Chicago’s Native community, she has dedicated 40 years to preserving Indigenous traditions. A traditional dancer, regalia maker, and beadwork artist, she shares cultural teachings to inspire and sustain future generations.
Detmer “DJ” Wells is Director of Communications at the American Indian Health Service of Chicago. With over 30 years of experience in education, healthcare, and media, he champions equity and access for underserved communities. An award-winning media producer and Governors State University alumnus, he advances community partnerships and Native health initiatives.
Jay Young is Co-Executive Director of the American Indian Center of Chicago and an enrolled citizen of the Citizen Potawatomi Nation. An award-winning photojournalist, he blends Native storytelling traditions with modern media. His work advances education, advocacy, and healing while amplifying Indigenous voices and strengthening Native identity and community.
Performance
Native American welcome and traveling songs honor connection and belonging. Performed today by singer Ronnie Preston and jingle dress dancers Drs. Lisa Pennington and Nataka Moore, these songs greet visitors, strengthen community bonds, and guide us through life’s journeys. Rooted in tradition, they preserve identity, share knowledge, and express emotion—linking us to ancestors, spirit, and one another in a celebration of inclusivity and shared humanity.