PULLMAN Michael Pavel, associate professor at WSU and member of the Skokomish Nation, is a Northwest finalist for the 7th annual Buffett Award for Indigenous Leadership.
He will be among those honored at an Oct. 10 ceremony in Portland. The Buffett Award recognizes indigenous leadership that improves social, economic, political or environmental conditions. This year, the $25,000 award goes to Roberta Conner, a community and national leader, museum director, speaker and author from Pendleton, Ore.
The four other finalists will each receive a $5,000 cash award. Besides Pavel, they are: Carol Craig, Zillah, Alfred Lane III, Siletz, Lillian Moyer, Dease Lake.
Pavel is being recognized for his work as a Salish tradition bearer, professor, researcher, author, environmental conservationist and community leader. He is a faculty member in the Department of Educational Leadership and Counseling Psychology in the WSU College of Education.
His many publications include the recent book The American Indian and Alaska Native Student’s Guide to College Success (2007), which he co-authored with Ella Inglebret. Pavel’s current projects include developing a comprehensive middle school curriculum on environmental conservation and salmon restoration.
Supported by the families of Howard and Peter Buffett, the Buffett Award provides resources for the development and transfer of knowledge in indigenous communities. First Nation, Alaska Native or tribal members over age 35 who exhibit extraordinary leadership within the Salmon Nation region from Alaska to California are eligible for nomination. The award is presented by Ecotrust, a West Coast conservation organization
