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August 5, 2025

AIPHRC Quarterly Newsletter - August 2025

American Indian Public Health Resource Center - Quarterly Newsletter

August 2025

Newsletter Contents

  1. Introduction of AIPHRC
  2. AIPHRC News & Updates
  3. Future Events
  4. Contact


Mission

To address American Indian public health disparities through technical assistance, policy development, self-determination feasibility analysis, education, research, and programming in partnership with tribes, in North Dakota, across the Northern Plains, and the nation.

Dear Relatives, Partners, and Community Members,

We are honored to share an important update regarding the American Indian Public Health Resource Center (AIPHRC). As of May 2025, AIPHRC is undergoing a leadership and organizational transition that marks a new chapter in our continued commitment to serving Tribal Nations and Indigenous communities.

Over the past 14 years, AIPHRC has been a trusted partner in advancing health equity, Indigenous-led research, policy development, and culturally grounded public health practices. We remain deeply grateful for the dedication of our outgoing team members, whose leadership and passion laid the foundation for lasting relationships and impactful work. Their contributions have shaped a legacy that we will continue to honor and build upon.

As we move forward, we are proud to introduce the new AIPHRC leadership and current team. This new team brings together a strong group of Indigenous public health professionals, educators, and advocates who are deeply committed to community-driven solutions, data sovereignty, and health systems transformation. Together, we reaffirm our commitment to:

  • Upholding Indigenous knowledge systems and cultural values in public health initiatives
  • Supporting Tribal nations through technical assistance, training, and data services
  • Advancing policies that reflect the unique needs and strengths of Native communities

Strengthening partnerships through respectful, reciprocal relationships

Change is a natural part of growth. We approach this transition with humility, respect, and a deep sense of responsibility. We remain rooted in our mission to serve Indigenous communities with integrity, and we look forward to walking this new path with you.

We welcome your continued guidance and collaboration as we move ahead. In solidarity and respect

Sweet grass braid

Meet the Team

Tahni Parisien

Indigenous Food Sovereignty Project Manager

Tribal Affiliation: Turtle Mountain Band

Tahni Parisien

We’re Hiring!

We are hiring a Project Manager to help drive impactful initiatives that support the health and well-being of tribal communities across the country.

In this role, you'll coordinate culturally relevant public health projects, collaborate with tribal partners, manage timelines and deliverables, and support our dedicated team in advancing health equity.

We’re seeking candidates with strong project management experience, excellent communication skills, and a passion for Indigenous public health.

Learn more about the position and how to join our mission.

Application closes on Monday, August 4th!

Apply Now

Highlights

The AIPHRC welcomed 24 tribal youth ages 18-24 onto NDSU campus during the month of June for our 2nd annual Indigenous Food Sovereignty Emerging Leaders Program (IFSELP).

The three weeks were filled with learning, connection, and celebration of Indigenous food, sovereignty, resilience, and community. The IFSELP cohort is grateful to the Tribal communities, Indigenous leaders, Indigenous led organizations in North Dakota, South Dakota, and Minnesota who welcomed us and shared their knowledge, stories, and traditions.

Thank you to the USDA, Office of Tribal Relationship for funding this program that supports Indigenous youth through their food sovereignty journey!

Congrats to our 2025 cohort! We can’t wait to see your leadership impacts in the future!


Future Plans & Events

  • Inter-Tribal Maternal Infant Health Action Committee (IMIHAC) meeting via Zoom August 13th 1-2pm
  • Planning for Spring 2026 Maternal Child Health and Community Health Representative symposium
    • If interested in joining planning committee or have ideas on speakers, location, etc. reach out to us at ndsu.aiphrc@ndsu.edu
  • Seeking to renew and build relationships with Tribal Colleges and Universities this fall through site visits and tours!
  • Developing a Food Sovereignty and Public Health Toolkit
  • Staff will be attending Native Nutrition Conference, National Indian Health Board, and United Tribes Technical College’s 2025 Tribal Leaders Summit— hope to see you out in community!


Tribal Advisory Committee

The Tribal Advisory Board serves in a consultative role, meeting quarterly to provide guidance, share cultural perspectives, and support collaborative initiatives between AIPHRC and Tribal Nations.

We deeply respect the sovereignty of all Tribal governments and are committed to working in a spirit of partnership and mutual respect. Your participation would help us uphold this commitment in a meaningful and sustained way.

We are looking to reestablish the Tribal Advisory Board with diverse tribal representation.

If you’re interested in learning more and potentially joining, reach out to ashley.littlewolf@ndsu.edu

IFSELP students
Group photo of IFSELP
How to Contact

Want to sign up for our newsletter? Send an email to: ndsu.aiphrc@ndsu.edu

Our general email contact is: ndsu.aiphrc@ndsu.edu
Stay connected with AIPHRC through our website or Facebook

Highlights

The AIPHRC welcomed 24 tribal youth ages 18-24 onto NDSU campus during the month of June for our 2nd annual Indigenous Food Sovereignty Emerging Leaders Program (IFSELP).

The three weeks were filled with learning, connection, and celebration of Indigenous food, sovereignty, resilience, and community. The IFSELP cohort is grateful to the Tribal communities, Indigenous leaders, Indigenous led organizations in North Dakota, South Dakota, and Minnesota who welcomed us and shared their knowledge, stories, and traditions.

Thank you to the USDA, Office of Tribal Relationship for funding this program that supports Indigenous youth through their food sovereignty journey!

Congrats to our 2025 cohort! We can’t wait to see your leadership impacts in the future!


Future Plans & Events

  • Inter-Tribal Maternal Infant Health Action Committee (IMIHAC) meeting via Zoom August 13th 1-2pm
  • Planning for Spring 2026 Maternal Child Health and Community Health Representative symposium
    • If interested in joining planning committee or have ideas on speakers, location, etc. reach out to us at ndsu.aiphrc@ndsu.edu
  • Seeking to renew and build relationships with Tribal Colleges and Universities this fall through site visits and tours!
  • Developing a Food Sovereignty and Public Health Toolkit
  • Staff will be attending Native Nutrition Conference, National Indian Health Board, and United Tribes Technical College’s 2025 Tribal Leaders Summit— hope to see you out in community!


Tribal Advisory Committee

The Tribal Advisory Board serves in a consultative role, meeting quarterly to provide guidance, share cultural perspectives, and support collaborative initiatives between AIPHRC and Tribal Nations.

We deeply respect the sovereignty of all Tribal governments and are committed to working in a spirit of partnership and mutual respect. Your participation would help us uphold this commitment in a meaningful and sustained way.

We are looking to reestablish the Tribal Advisory Board with diverse tribal representation.

If you’re interested in learning more and potentially joining, reach out to ashley.littlewolf@ndsu.edu

IFSELP students
Group photo of IFSELP
How to Contact

Want to sign up for our newsletter? Send an email to: ndsu.aiphrc@ndsu.edu

Our general email contact is: ndsu.aiphrc@ndsu.edu
Stay connected with AIPHRC through our website or Facebook