Briar Cliff University Honors Native American Heritage Month with a Gift to Little Priest Tribal College

November 15, 2023

(Winnebago, Nebraska – November 14, 2023) In honor of Native American Heritage Month and the growing relationship with Little Priest Tribal College (LPTC) and Briar Cliff University, the colleges met to celebrate the legacy of Indigenous history makers and those who continue to shape our society, lead their communities, and impact our culture today. They came together to celebrate Waixewe—Hochunk for relations, symbolized by gift giving.

BCU representatives presented a star quilt to LPTC, a tradition of honor and celebration of the culture, endurance, practicality, and beauty of the Winnebago people. The celebration also included a prayer, drum group, and food.

“Waixewe is what we call a gift that is given to strengthen the relationship between one individual to another,” said Aaron PoorBear, Recruitment Specialist for Little Priest Tribal College. “In this case, the star quilt, is a symbol of the bond and relationship between our institutions.

Earlier this year, BCU and LPTC signed a grant agreement that allowed Pell Grant-eligible students at LPTC to attend BCU and receive full tuition aid. Those not Pell Grant eligible also receive tuition assistance. The colleges have also formed many articulation agreements, allowing LPTC students to transfer to BCU more easily when they seek to continue their education for a bachelor's degree.

“At Briar Cliff University, we are dedicated to listening to and learning from the diverse cultures that represent our employees, students, and community,” shared Dr. Shirin Edwin, Provost/Vice President of Academic and Student Affairs at Briar Cliff University. “Our growing relationship with Little Priest Tribal College has allowed the colleges to form new opportunities for Native American students, and we look forward to our continued collaboration for years to come. It is collaborations and openness such as this that allow diverse cultures to enrich both campuses.”

Briar Cliff University held several events throughout the month of November to bring greater awareness and celebration for Native American Heritage Month.