I am Michael M. Vendiola and I work at Northwest Indian College (NWIC). NWIC
is located on the Lummi Nation in northwest Washington state. I coordinate a
program for the college by the name of Ya'e Tenges. Ya'e Tenges in Lummi
language translates into English as "Take me along with you." Inspiration
for this name is due to the work and dedication that peer mentors and tutors
have given fellow students at NWIC and in the community. The name was
approved by the cultural traditionalists of the Lummi Nation, as well as,
NWIC administrative staff. The main focus of the program is to provide
tutoring and mentoring programs for Native students. I recently joined the
program in February and am attempting to achieve another level with the
program. The Lummi name points to a traditional aspect in the program. While
it does foster traditional beliefs and respects the program needs to expand
further in that area.
What I am looking for is other Native programs that incorporate this
methodology, ones based in academics while also acknowledging the
traditions of the Native people. Or, if not that indepth, programs that have
been successful in working with Native people in the areas of tutoring and
peer mentoring.
If you can help please email me at: mlstrike@pacificrim.net
Hish qe,
Michael M. Vendiola
Swinomish/Visayan