On March 18, 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. This event was sponsored by the College of Business’ LRS Undergraduate Student Success Center and the College of Health and Human Sciences’ advising team.
Participants connected with artifacts and engaged in activities to gain a better understanding of Oneida history and culture. The event included an Indigenous-themed lunch, which served “Indian Tacos.”
Robert Phelan, an accountancy major, 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. I feel cultural events bring the College of Business interesting topics and education that many in the fields of accounting, finance or marketing would benefit from in their future careers.”
Anthropology major Emma Bell attended the event, which was open to all on campus.
“The Oneida cultural event taught me about the lifeways and history of modern Oneida people in Wisconsin,” she 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.”
Nicole Holland, director of advising in the College of Health and Human Sciences, attended the event because she is a member of the Oneida Nation of Wisconsin.
“Thank you for bringing a taste of my home to our NIU campus community,” she said. “Indian Tacos, or Navajo Tacos, are a modern, well-known dish that is often served in Native communities, especially at pow-wows and Indigenous events. While they are not a part of my everyday diet, they are not typically served in this area, so, they remind me of my roots back home.”
The LRS Undergraduate Student Success Center, within the College of Business, regularly hosts cultural events that honor the diverse student body in the college. For more information or to share ideas for upcoming cultural events, please contact cobadvising@niu.edu.
