RIT Native American Future Stewards Program

04/30/2026

Honoring our graduates in a good way. 🪶

The Future Stewards Program Blanket Ceremony is more than a celebration, it is a moment of recognition, reflection, and community. Each student was wrapped in a blanket as a symbol that they do not walk alone. They carry forward the strength of their families, their cultures, and their communities.

We grounded ourselves in the Words Before All Else, reminding us that now our minds are one.

Please join us in celebrating our graduates:
Elissa Sainthil
Kastoslote Elijah
Meakalia Gilman

While Kai Gidwani was unable to attend, we continue to support him and celebrate his accomplishments.

Congratulations to each of you. We are proud of you and all that you will continue to become.

Kapiichii.

NowOurMindsAreOne

11/08/2025

Thank you Wáats’asdíyei Joe Yates for coming all the way from Alaska to share your powerful message of belonging, resilience, and storytelling with our students tonight. Your presence brought so much energy, reflection, and heart to our community.

Huge appreciation to Vee Sweet and the College of Liberal Arts for helping make this evening possible — and to our incredible interpreters Susan and Jessica for ensuring access and connection for all.

And congratulations to Sherrralyn Sneezer for earning Runner-Up in the 3MT competition this afternoon! Seeing Indigenous brilliance shine in multiple spaces today has been inspiring.

A busy day — a rewarding day — and an unforgettable one for our students and community. 💛🧡🤎

10/20/2025

04/29/2025

Tonight we honored the journeys, achievements, and futures of our Future Stewards graduates. The Blanket Ceremony is a reminder that wherever their paths lead, they will always carry the warmth, strength, and spirit of their community. Congratulations to all our graduates — we are so proud of you.

10/07/2024

🌟 What an incredible experience at the 2024 AISES National Conference! 🌟

From October 3-5, we had the privilege of connecting with Indigenous innovators and changemakers in San Antonio, Texas. The theme “Rivers of Resilience: Sustaining Indigenous Innovation” truly came to life as we shared knowledge, built new friendships, and celebrated our communities’ brilliance in STEM.

🌐💡 We’re coming back inspired and ready to continue pushing boundaries in science, technology, engineering, and math. The future is bright with Indigenous excellence leading the way!

Thank you to everyone who made this journey unforgettable! 🙌

09/02/2024

🐾 The Native American Future Stewards Program had an amazing time at the Seneca Park Zoo today! We were all in awe of the Red Pandas, Snow Leopard, Tiger, and the Grey Wolves, affectionately nicknamed Jacob Jr and Bella Jr by our students. 🐺🐅

It was especially meaningful to share this experience with our new RIT freshmen—such a great way to bond and build new friendships!

08/20/2024

We invite our incoming ALANA and First Generation students to engage in an afternoon of community and fun. Meet students, staff, and faculty from across the RIT campus including the Division for Diversity & Inclusion. There are many ways to get engaged and build community!
Stop by to learn and connect with your RIT family. We are here to be your home away from home.

06/20/2024

The Native American Future Stewards Program is thrilled about an upcoming event this Fall! On Saturday, October 19th, we are excited to welcome Alaqua Cox, the inspiring deaf actress known for her breakout role as Maya Lopez (Echo) in the Marvel Cinematic Universe.

Alaqua Cox, 27, starred in the Disney+ series Hawkeye and now headlines her solo spin-off series, Echo, on Hulu and Disney+. Born and raised on the Menominee Indian Reservation in Keshena, Wisconsin, she represents the Menominee and Mohican nation. Since her debut, she has become a beacon of inspiration and a strong advocate for the deaf community.

Comic Charlie Berens and Marvel Cinematic Universe actress Alaqua Cox to appear during Brick City homecoming weekend in October. Men’s hockey also planned.

04/29/2024

🎉🌟 We are thrilled to announce that two outstanding students from the Native American Future Stewards Program have been honored with the Division of Diversity and Inclusion Student Beacon Awards! 🏆✨

First up, let’s give a huge round of applause to La’akea DiCarlo (Native Hawaiian)! 🎉 La’akea, a SOIS major, has shown exemplary leadership and dedication on campus, particularly through her involvement with the Hawaii Culture Club, where she fosters connections and shares Hawaiian culture with the RIT community. Beyond her club involvement, La’akea is an active participant in theater and various FSP events. Congratulations, La’akea, on this well-deserved recognition! 🌺👏

Next, we celebrate Maddie Tlachac (Oneida of Wisconsin), a fourth-year student in the BS/MS program for Environmental Health and Safety Management. Maddie’s commitment to promoting diversity and inclusion shines through her involvement with MCAS, the Future Stewards Program, and her impactful contributions during panels and discussions on campus. Maddie’s dedication to fostering dialogue and understanding is truly inspiring. Congratulations, Maddie, on this remarkable achievement! 🌟👏

We are incredibly proud of both La’akea and Maddie for their outstanding leadership and advocacy for diversity and inclusion at RIT. Keep shining bright, and continue making a positive impact on our campus community! 🎉👏 🏆✨