Members Present:
Dr. David R. Burgess, Boston College, Chestnut Hill, MA
Dr. Luis Echegoyen, Clemson University, Clemson, SC
Dr. Beverly Karplus Hartline, Lemont, IL
Dr. J.K. Haynes, Division of Science and Mathematics, Morehouse College, Atlanta, GA
Dr. Robert L. Lichter, CEOSE Vice Chair, Merrimack Consultants, LLC, Atlanta, GA
Dr. Samuel L. Myers, Jr., HHH Institute of Public Affairs, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN
Dr. Indira Nair, CEOSE Chair, Carnegie Mellon University, Pittsburgh, PA
Dr. Willie Pearson, Jr., Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, GA
Dr. Carol Halpert Schwartz, New York Institute of Technology, Old Westbury, NY
Dr. Telle Whitney, Anita Borg Institute for Women and Technology, Palo Alto, CA
Dr. Lilian Shiao-Yen Wu, IBM Corporation, Somers, NY
Ms. Sara Young, American Indian Research Opportunities, Montana State University, Bozeman, MT
Members Absent:
Dr. Joyce Bennett Justus, University of California at Santa Cruz, Santa Cruz, CA
(Dr. Justus attended the pre-meeting session; however, she was not able to attend the meeting held on April 19-20, 2004.)
Executive Liaison/CEOSE Executive Secretary:
Dr. Margaret E. M. Tolbert, Senior Advisor, Office of Integrative Activities, National Science Foundation (NSF)
Non-Members Who Presented Oral or Written Statements or Interacted in Other Substantive Matters:
Mr. Alden Big Man, Faculty Member at Little Big Horn College
Ms. Nora Bird, Little Big Horn College
Mr. Lee Christiansen, Montana Fun Adventures, Inc., Billings, Montana
Ms. Renee Christiansen, Montana Fun Adventures, Inc., Billings, Montana
Dr. Walter Collier, President of C&A; Technologies, Inc., Alexandria, Virginia
Ms. Mari Eggers, Faculty Member at Little Big Horn College
Ms. Sandra Gartrell, The Reporter, Inc., Washington, DC
Ms. Alda Good Luck, Student Advisor for Tribal Colleges and Universities Program/Little
Big Horn College
Mr. Ricarda Hanson, Transition Counselor at Chief Dull Knife College
Ms. Joan Hantz, Library Director at Chief Dull Knife College
Mr. Jeffrey Hooker, Director of the Technology Department at Chief Dull Knife College
Mr. Laurentiu (Larry) Istrate, Little Big Horn College
Dr. Richard Littlebear, President of Chief Dull Knife College
Dr. LaForce Lonebear, Vice Chair of the Board of Trustees at Chief Dull Knife College
Mr. Robert Madsen, Science Instructor at Chief Dull Knife College
Ms. Dalphine Medicine Horse, Student at Chief Dull Knife College
Mr. Jonah Morrisette, Student at Little Big Horn College
Mr. Justin Oleyte, Little Big Horn College
Ms. Dionne Pretty On Top, Little Big Horn College
Ms. Mary Pully, Program and Technology Specialist, OIA/NSF
Ms. Sharon Rathbun, Cultural Center Assistant at Chief Dull Knife College
Ms. Melodee Reed, TRiO Administrative Assistant at Little Big Horn College
Ms. Heather Ryan, Northern Cheyenne Technology Center (Adult Education) at Chief Dull Knife College
Ms. Tanya Small, Student at Chief Dull Knife College
Mr. Gregory Smith, Rural Systemic Initiative Physical Sciences and Mathematics, Chief
Dull Knife College
Ms. Beverly Snell, Director of the Rural Systemic Initiative at Little Big Horn College
Mr. Zane Spang, TCUP Director, Chief Dull Knife College
Mr. Adam Spang, TCUP Paraprofessional in the Science Department at Chief Dull Knife College
Mr. Hal Sterns, Husband of the Commissioner of Education
Ms. Sheila Sterns, Commissioner of Education
Mr. Roy Stewart, Academic Coordinator at Little Big Horn College
Mr. Rich Stiff, Science Instructor at Chief Dull Knife College
Ms. Terri Little Light Thomas, Student at Little Big Horn College
TriO~Society Members (Students)
Ms. Donna Wald, Little Big Horn College
Mr. William Wertman, Vice President of Chief Dull Knife College
Ms. Vania White, Student at Little Big Horn College
Ms. Sandi Whitefoot, Student at Chief Dull Knife College
Ms. Jennifer Whiteman, Student at Little Big Horn College
Mr. Kyle Whiteman, Little Big Horn College
Ms. Regina Whiter, Student at Chief Dull Knife College
Ms. Paula Windham, Retired Educator, Boulder, Colorado
Dr. Thomas Windham, Senior Advisor for Science and Engineering Workforce, Office of
the NSF Director
Dr. David Yarlott, Jr., President of Little Big Horn College
Ms. DeborahYarlott, First Lady of Little Big Horn College and Director of TRiO/Student Support Services
Ms. Raelene Yazzi, Student at Little Big Horn College
The meeting of the Committee on Equal Opportunities in Science and Engineering (CEOSE) was held April 19-20, 2004 at two Tribal Colleges in Montana-Little Big Horn College in Crow Agency, Montana, and Chief Dull Knife College in Lame Deer, Montana. This was the first off-site meeting in the history of CEOSE. Ms. Sara Young, CEOSE member, made the arrangements and organized the visits of the Committee to the two Tribal Colleges in response to a request from the Committee. This request followed a discussion held during the October 2003 meeting. Discussions of this off-site meeting were held during the February meeting, too. During these discussions the focus was on CEOSE members gaining their perspectives and hearing from the colleges first-hand in order to be able to address relevant issues with the proper understanding of these institutions.
April 19, 2004 - 9:45 A.M.Dr. David Yarlott, Jr., President of Little Big Horn College, opened the meeting with a prayer. In his introductory remarks, he advised that he received his doctorate degree in 1999 and became president of the college 20 months ago. After the meeting attendees introduced themselves, he called on the CEOSE Chair for comments.
Dr. Nair, CEOSE Chair, acknowledged the welcome by Dr. Yarlott and stated that the committee hopes to become more knowledgeable of the history, plans, needs, and interests of Little Big Horn College. Dr. Lichter, CEOSE Vice Chair, stated that the committee appreciates the opportunity to visit the college. It is a learning experience for all of us. The intent is to be immersed and involved in activities of the college as we go throughout the day.
Dr. Yarlott presented information on programs (e.g., Rural Systemic Initiative, Tribal Colleges and Universities Program) that are sponsored by NSF at his college. His description of Little Big Horn College, which is located on the 2.25 million acre Crow Indian Reservation in Crow Agency, Montana, included the following facts: established in 1980, accredited in 1990, recognized as a land-grant institution, moved into Little Big Horn College buildings in August of 2003, governance by a 13-member (two persons from each district) Board of Trustees, 360 students currently enrolled with 396 expected in the fall, 70% female students, some single parents, and 15-18 credit hours taught by each faculty member. Tuition is $75 per credit hour. Prior to the establishment of Little Big Horn College, students had to leave the reservation in order to attend college. The 1978 Tribal Colleges Act paved the way for the establishment of the college.
In reference to assistance with the workload of the faculty, Dr. Yarlott stated that it is possible to have mutually beneficial partnerships. When Crow Indians are treated as equals with the partners, partnerships work. He encourages industrial linkages. When asked about the possibility of visiting faculty serving at the college, he responded that housing is a problem. There have been discussions of the establishment of a multi-purpose Visiting Faculty Center at the college. However, the facility has not become a reality.
Among the needs enumerated by the president were: equipment to use for teaching and training purposes, more diverse course curricula, programs to maintain the tribal culture, and recruitment and retention of additional well qualified faculty members. In terms of courses, enrollment in environmental science courses is increasing, while that for computer science is decreasing. Currently, there are 12 full-time faculty members; 70% are Crow Indians. Some distance learning courses are being planned. Financial aid to students includes the PELL Grants and State funds. Additional student fellowships and scholarships are needed.
Dr. Yarlott spoke of the AIHEC conference, which the college hosted, and he presented an overview of the Apsaalooke (Children of the Large Beak Bird) People. In telling the history of his people, he spoke of the migration of the tribe, its hardships, its 13 clans, its survival strategies, and its culture. At one time, there were 50,000 Crow people. This number was reduced to 300 at one point in their history. Now, the numbers have increased by a wide margin. Currently, approximately 87% of the Crow people speak their own native language. An even smaller percentage in the age group of 20 to 35 years speaks the Crow language. The younger the group is, the smaller the percentage that speaks the language. Dr. Yarlott spoke of the selection of the land for the reservation `that the Crow tribe made when the treaty was signed. On the Crow Reservation, the unemployment rate is approximately 55%. The biggest employers are the Bureau of Indian Affairs, the Indian Health Services, and the school system. They have a great deal of difficulty in getting investors and lenders for any types of projects. Yet, they continue with their efforts to control their own destiny. Dr. Yarlott remained with the committee until the end of the meeting, providing invaluable insights. He also took the committee on a tour of the campus.
During the faculty panel discussion, the following programs and initiatives were covered: 1) Rural Systemic Initiative, which focuses on K-9 levels; 2) course offerings, such as the new forestry track; 3) Louis Stokes Alliances for Minority Participation (Successes: Developed new Forestry Degree Program, Held Summer and Natural Research Camps, and Developing an Agricultural Degree Program); 4) Experimental Program to Simulate Competitive Research (Success: Held a Summer Undergraduate Research Program); 5) Course Curriculum and Laboratory Improvement Program (Success: Introductory Biology Curriculum Development); and 6) Tribal Colleges and Universities Program (Success: Held a Career Fair). The Crow culture is a nurturing and visual society. The recruitment and retention of Indian students is unique and require the involvement of families. The family is extremely important, and the culture takes precedence over all else. Science, technology, engineering, and mathematics are integral parts of the Indian culture.
The next panel was composed of students who are majoring in environmental science, computer science, mathematics, nursing, pre-medicine, and science. The student panelists spoke of and answered questions relative to their personal and academic concerns. Among their concerns are the need for: 1) knowledgeable tutorial services and more advanced courses; 2) career planning; 3) orientation to 4-year colleges; 4) funds for educational and personal support purposes; 5) more internships, scholarships, and fellowships; 6) appropriate study environment in their homes; 7) greater access to computers and calculators; 8) convenient child care services while students are in college, 9) evening classes; and 10) more laboratory equipment and facilities. All of the students with whom CEOSE members interacted showed determination, resourcefulness, and commitment to complete their formal education. To address the pressing need for a child care facility, the Crow Tribe donated a facility, but it did not pass State Standards. Efforts to address the overall needs of the students are continuing. However, assistance from NSF would be appreciated.
Among the suggestions that were made by representatives of Little Big Horn College were the following: NSF should continue to support TCUP and LSAMP, and get mainstream universities to work with the college (i.e., through REU Programs). Placing some of the NSF-sponsored projects at Little Big Horn College is most desirable. Include faculty members from the college as panelists and ad hoc reviewers of NSF proposals. Make available an NSF solicitation, which will enable the tribal colleges to participate. Establish at NSF a student scholarship/fellowship program focused on Indian students. Establish programs at Little Big Horn College that focus on STEM fields that will enable the students to remain in the Crow area while conducting research or participating in educational programs. Provide support for K-12 curriculum development and teacher enhancement programs and initiatives.
After the panel discussions, Ms. Sara Young advised members of CEOSE that their enthusiasm for the presentations was evident and that everyone at the college was glad to have them there. Further, she stated that the College is on the Crow Reservation, a sovereign nation. She said "We are here because this is where we are supposed to be. It is the best place to be. You cannot go in any direction and find anything any better." Her efforts are to keep students attached to their culture and people. Members of the Crow tribe serve in the military; this is a great honor. When they return home, they are welcomed in ceremonial fashion at the airport by tribe members. In every "give away", you will hear mention of military service with honor. "What is needed on the reservation are opportunities for my people" said Ms. Young in responding to questions from other CEOSE members.
In response to the question of what to expect as the committee meets at Chief Dull Knife College, Dr. Burgess told everyone that Indians have a serious sense of humor. So, Ms. Young advised that everyone should expect some Crow jokes from the Cheyennes. Further, she advised of the establishment of the Crow Reservation and the dispute surrounding the 107th meridian, which is the dividing line between the Crow and Cheyenne reservations. The Crow Tribe continues to request its land back from the Cheyennes. This disagreement is being addressed by the 107th Committee, which oversees matters relative to this land issue.
CEOSE Unfinished Business: 1) Dr. Nair advised of plans for the October meeting. The first day is to be spent interacting with Dr. Bement, Acting NSF Director, and in discussing the draft reports to Congress. The second day is to be spent discussing reports assigned to CEOSE members and others. 2) The report (e.g., Action Items and Meeting Minutes for February 18-19, 2004) of the Executive Liaison/CEOSE Executive Secretary was received with thanks. 3) The minutes of the February 18-19, 2004 CEOSE meeting were approved with the changes identified by committee members. 4) ACTION: CEOSE Liaisons to NSF Advisory Committees are to submit their written reports to the Executive Liaison following their meetings. The Executive Liaison will send copies of each report to CEOSE members approximately two weeks prior to the October meeting. This will minimize the amount of time needed for review during the CEOSE meeting.
Ad Hoc Subcommittee on Reports: Dr. Nair asked Dr. Hartline to report on the Ad Hoc Subcommittee on Reports, which met on April 18th. The contractor, C&A; Technologies, Inc., has outlined the biennial report. The thought is that it should include a section on mentoring. While the biennial report will cover two years, the retrospective report will in some parts cover the entire history of CEOSE. However, the years will be divided so that the last ten will be covered in one set. The contractor needs trend data, which will be provided by NSF by the end of April. The next draft of the report will include changes recommended by the Ad Hoc Subcommittee on Reports up to April 18, 2004. ACTION: The subcommittee will hold a conference call in June. The exact date will be coordinated through the Executive Liaison. Those unable to meet at NSF will participate by telecom or videoconference. The results of the conference call will be presented at the October meeting of CEOSE. When the reports are almost in their final forms, the full committee will be asked to review them. ACTION: Give the matrix submitted by the contractor to each member of the Ad Hoc Subcommittee on Reports.
Dr. Nair adjourned the meeting at 6 p.m.
April 20, 2004 - 9:30 A.M.The President of Chief Dull Knife College, Dr. Richard Littlebear who is a member of the Northern Cheyenne Tribe, opened the CEOSE meeting. The college is located on the Cheyenne Reservation in Lame Deer, Montana, and it was established in 1978 and accredited in 1995. Dr. Littlebear has served as President for four years. In his presentation on the college, he told the committee that John Woodenleg, Sr., was a long-time Chair of the Cheyenne Tribe. The college library was named for him. The Chairman of the Board is John Woodenleg's son, and one representative of each of the five districts on the reservation sit on the Board. One of the President's priorities is the expansion of the college facilities. Two hundred fifteen students are enrolled at the college, and there are nine full-time staff members-including three science faculty members. This college reaches students who might never have had the opportunity to obtain a college education. The college boasts of some very good students, some of whom have graduated magna cum laude and summa cum laude.
Dr. Littlebear gave a short history lesson on his Tribe, advising that the Cheyennes won the battle that made General Custer immortal. His Tribe came from north of the Great Lakes area, and its members call themselves "Tsetsestahase". They ended up on the northern plains. In the 1700s, things changed and the Tribe became more mobile. It was a long time coming, but the Indian Education Act was put in place in the 1970s. This enabled Indians to determine their educational programs. Prior to that time, schools were run independently. Dr. Littlebear spoke of stereotypes and problems that existed in the past and present, and he spoke with special pride about the work of the Chiefs of the tribe, especially Chief Dull Knife who was an advocate for education of the Cheyennes. Education has been a major concern of the tribe since the early days. He stated that "Education is the best vehicle for bettering our lives". Evidence of the concern for education by the tribe is evident in its history. In 1904, a school was built for the Cheyennes. In the 1930s, another school was built. The educational pursuits continue.
After Dr. Littlebear completed his profile of the college and the history of the Cheyenne Tribe, he introduced his faculty and staff and called for introductions of CEOSE members. Dr. Nair responded to the welcome and asked CEOSE members to name their positions and home institutions as they introduce themselves. This they did.
The President and his faculty discussed programs sponsored by NSF at the college. Among them are the Teacher Training Program, Tribal Colleges Rural Systemic Initiative, Tribal Colleges and Universities Program, and Experimental Program to Stimulate Competitive Research. It was noted that the college has grants from other agencies as well. Resounding throughout the presentations were the challenges involved in recruitment and retention of faculty and students, the wearing of multiple hats by the staff, and giving students the real world experiences so that they can take advantage of opportunities. Both teachers and former students serve as role models for other students. Some of the faculty members spoke of pre-college resources. On the Cheyenne Reservation there is one high school, Lame Deer High School, which is seven years old. It took 35 years to get the State of Montana to establish this school. CEOSE members advised the faculty that they not underestimate the story that they are trying to tell and that they should be sure to have data to support the accomplishments of the Tribe. It is clear that an excellent job is being done to inspire the students and that the best and the brightest are being developed at the college. The need for culturally relevant programs is clear.
Following presentations by the faculty, a student panel discussion was held. Students told of their majors, family life, needs, and aspirations. Their personal and educational concerns were like those of other students at Little Big Horn College. There were those who intend to become paraprofessionals, teachers, environmental scientists, civil engineers, and medical doctors. They called for more programs, especially those in science and engineering, that are of interest to Indians and that can be completed on their reservation.
As Dr. Littlebear took committee members on a tour of the facilities, he said that his goal is to make the college a four-year college. He stated that students are more likely to complete their degree work if they have the opportunity to remain near their families. It is time for companies to stop exporting jobs and start making them available to Indians where they are-on the reservation.
The meeting was adjourned at 2:50 p.m.