Faculty and Cultural Advisors

We are a small and diverse group of dedicated Indigenous and Western scientists, Cultural Practitioners, Elders, Healers, researchers, scholars, and academics.

ISPS Faculty

  • Betty Jean Bastien, Ph.D

  • Fania Davis, Ph.D., J.D.

  • Catherine Hoppers, Ph.D.

  • Jürgen W. Kremer, Ph. D.

  • Grace Nono, Ph.D.

  • Brian Rice, Ph.D.

  • Valerie Ringland, Ph.D.

  • Marcela Sabin, M.A.

  • Lynette Schultz, Ph.D.

Learn more

Cultural Practitioner Advisors

  • Erick Gbodossou, M.D.

    Voudouin (Senegal)
    PROMETRA

  • Isak Kruiper

    Ubijie Sa Bushman (Southern Kalahari)
    Healer, Community Leader

  • Lydia (“Lys”) Kruiper

    Ubijie Sa Bushman (Southern Kalahari)Healer, Community Leader

  • Ilarion Merculieff

    Aleut (Alaska)
    Wisdom Weavers of the World

  • Elmir Muratalieva

    Kyrgyz (Kyrgyzstan)
    Clairvoyant

  • Zhaparkul Raimbekov

    Kyrgyz (Kyrgyzstan)
    Snow Leopard Shaman

  • Tashka Yawanawá, M.S.

    Yawanawa (Brazil)
    Community Chief, Healer

  • Virginia Davis Floyd, M.D.

    (United States)
    PROMETRA

  • Apela Colorado, PhD

    Oneida-Gaul (United States) Founder, Worldwide Indigenous Science Network

Learn more

Graduate Voices

Maryka.jpeg

“After graduation, I worked with various United Nations agencies supporting indigenous peoples' advocacy in the UN climate negotiations and in various national and international policy agendas, positions I know I wouldn't have gotten if for the guidance I received over the course of this program.”

— Maryka Ives Paquette, M.A., Indigenous Mind Program, Currently with the Rainforest Foundation U.S.

What Graduates Are Saying

 

“I highly recommend the Indigenous Science and Peace Studies Program for students who are interested in a journey into their Indigenous Mind. It has the potential for deepening our understanding of relationships with each other, the Earth and the Cosmos, spawning much dialogue, self-reflection and courageous choices for the Earth, our human family and perhaps our very survival!”

— Audri Scott-Williams, M.A., Indigenous Mind,
Trustee United Religions International

“My experience in the Indigenous Mind (precursor to Indigenous Science and Peace Studies at University for Peace) program helped me to understand and stand in my own ancestral heritage for personal work and growth as well as in my professional career. I was a faculty member at the Eastern Kentucky University where I taught in individual and community healthcare. The program supported curricula, research, and practical on the ground application inclusive of and inspired by culture, diversity and health. My gratitude is always present for the doors that opened through the program, that continue to call, challenge and sometimes enlighten me in my life and work.”

— Anne Shordike, Ph.D., Professor Emerita, Eastern Kentucky University

“It all begins with an idea. Maybe you want to launch a business. Maybe you want to turn a hobby into something more. Or maybe you have a creative project to share with the world. Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference.”

— Maryka Ives Paquette, M.A., Indigenous Mind Program, Currently with the Rainforest Foundation U.S.