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Equity, Diversity, & Inclusion

Centers & Offices

Native Excellence

Gala

June 28, 2024

 

Shooting Star IconNative Excellence
Awards Nominations Information IconAmerican Indian
Resource Center

The Native Excellence Gala brings together Tribal Nation heads of state, community partners and members, educators, and students to celebrate changemakers and leaders who are making a positive impact on behalf of the Indigenous community. With prestigious awards bestowed upon nominated individuals, the evening includes a VIP reception, dinner and entertainment to honor and celebrate award recipients. Ticket proceeds will support the Native Student Scholarship fund.

Native Excellence Awards

Presented at the Native Excellence Gala, these awards amplify and celebrate individuals who exemplify Indigenous excellence and whose leadership inspires, uplifts, and paves the path forward for the Indigenous community.

Award Categories & Winners
Nominate by May 31

Native Excellence Gala

portrait of Fawn Wood wearing Indigenous jewelry and wide brim hat

Native Excellence Gala Keynote

Fawn Wood

Plains Cree/Salish Singer

Fawn Wood comes from the tradition of Round Dance and Hand Drum music. She was introduced to spiritual songs by her parents and grandparents, singing along with them at Pow-Wows from an early age. Through her music, she shares a deep passion for her community and speaks to the strength of Indigenous women. Fawn won the Hand Drum contest at the Gathering of Nation’s Pow-Wow in 2006, the first woman to do so. Wood’s latest album, Kâkike, received the first JUNO Award in the new category Traditional Indigenous Artist or Group of the Year (2022). With over a million engagements on TikTok, Wood has become a social media influencer who utilizes traditional music to revitalize languages and culture.