Native American Studies at NMSU seeks to develop a strong understanding of culture, Indigenous knowledge, expressive cultures, and sovereignty.
A bit about the Program
The BEST Native American Studies program emphasizes developing Native-focused scholarship in Native identity, tribal sovereignty, decolonization, cultural expressions, traditional knowledge, and community building among Indigenous and non-Indigenous communities. Our program informs the next generation of leaders in contemporary Native American Studies theory and research methodologies, primarily relational, collaborative, participatory, and focused on community action.
In the Moment
This painting is about staying present and appreciating the moment. My images are for future generations as I imagine them studying our current works, similar to how we memorize our ancestors' black and white historic al photos. - Avis Charley
What do the courses teach?
The Native American Studies program is dedicated to promoting Indigenous-focused scholarship in various areas such as Native identity, tribal sovereignty, decolonization, cultural expressions, traditional knowledge, and community building. It aims to equip the next generation of leaders with contemporary knowledge and research methodologies, primarily relational, collaborative, participatory, and community-focused. By doing so, the program seeks to engage Indigenous and non-Indigenous communities in creating positive and lasting change.
Meet NAS Faculty:
Dr. Catherine N. Montoya, Assistant Professor in Native American Studies
Dr. Catherine N. Montoya joined BEST in Fall 2023 as a Post-Doctoral Fellow in Native American Studies then became a NAS tenure-track faculty in BEST in Fall 2024.
An Example of the Work We Do
Yazzie/Martinez v. State of New Mexico was a pivotal court case in New Mexico concerning education for Indigenous students. It is an important case study we examine in the NATV courses, and an excellent resource for anyone interested in the future of education for indigenous communities.
The Yazzie Case: Building a Public Education System for Our Indigenous Future is a book recently published which outlines the story and outcome of this landmark case, and that members of the BEST faculty worked closely on.
Indigenous Educational Leadership through Community-Based Knowledge and Research (Minthorn, Secatero, Montoya, & Burshia, 2025) highlights the heartwork of the Native American Leadership in Education (NALE) program. The edited collection illuminates the beauty and essence of NALE, which uniquely conceptualizes Indigenous leadership identity, philosophy, community leadership, and research in ways that have empowered students and graduates to conceptualize and live our their ancestors' prayers and legacy.
Questions?
Please contact Dr. Catherine N. Montoya or Dr. Dulcinea Lara to discuss classes and curriculum.
