Rooted in wellness: Cultivating native plants for health, culture, and STEM education in tribal communities

Presented Rooted in Wellness: Cultivating Native Plants for Health, Culture, and STEM Education in Tribal Communities at the 2024 AISES National Conference. This presentation explored the connections among Indigenous knowledge systems, environmental stewardship, community wellness, cultural preservation, sustainable agriculture, and STEM education through the cultivation and study of native plants. The session highlighted how native plant initiatives can serve as culturally grounded educational experiences that promote health, strengthen community connections, preserve traditional knowledge, and create meaningful pathways for STEM learning.The presentation examined the historical significance of native plants within Tribal Nations and Indigenous communities, emphasizing their roles in traditional ecological knowledge, nutrition, medicine, cultural practices, environmental sustainability, and community resilience. Participants explored how native plant projects can be integrated into educational settings to provide hands-on learning opportunities that connect science, technology, engineering, mathematics, environmental studies, agriculture, and Indigenous cultural knowledge. The session demonstrated how place-based and experiential learning approaches can increase student engagement while fostering a deeper understanding of both scientific concepts and cultural heritage.Particular attention was given to the role of culturally responsive education in supporting Indigenous student success and strengthening community identity. The presentation highlighted how schools, tribal organizations, educators, elders, and community leaders can collaborate to develop educational experiences that honor Indigenous ways of knowing while preparing students for future opportunities in STEM fields, environmental sciences, agriculture, and community leadership. Discussions focused on mentorship, intergenerational learning, workforce readiness, and the importance of creating educational environments that value Indigenous perspectives and lived experiences.The session also explored the broader impacts of native plant cultivation on community health, food sovereignty, biodiversity, environmental conservation, and sustainable development. Participants examined how tribal communities can leverage traditional ecological knowledge and modern scientific practices to address environmental challenges, strengthen community wellness, support sustainable food systems, and promote stewardship of natural resources for future generations.This presentation informs my teaching, research, and service by advancing my work in Indigenous education, STEM education, sustainable agriculture, environmental stewardship, community wellness, cultural preservation, and leadership development. The presentation reflects a commitment to strengthening tribal communities through education, honoring Indigenous knowledge systems, promoting environmental sustainability, and empowering future generations to lead at the intersection of culture, science, and community well-being.