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NC Native Leadership Institute

The NC Native Leadership Institute (NLI) emerged as a joint effort between the University of North Carolina-Chapel Hill’s American Indian Center and the Center for Leadership and Innovation. Together, the Centers aimed to create a culturally tailored leadership training program for current and emerging Native leaders interested in sharpening their leadership skills, expanding their networks, and fostering unity across tribes and Native communities across the state.

The program was offered in 2013, 2015, and 2017.

Quick Facts:

In its previous iterations, NLI participants:

  • Lived in NC and represented tribal communities across and beyond the state
  • Ranged from 22-57 years of age
  • Came from a wide array of professional backgrounds

 

 

The NLI curriculum:

  • Was organized into multiple three-day sessions scheduled over two years
  • Encouraged participants to undertake self-driven community projects

 

 

We’re working to bring NLI back and we need your help! Email your suggestions to NLI@office.unc.edu or complete this short survey.

PROGRAM CONTACTS

Marissa Carmi

Associate Director

919.843.4189

mcarmi@live.unc.edu

 Jillian Cady

Graduate Intern

jillcady@unc.edu

 

 

NLI Second gathering

Impact statements from previous NLI cohort members:

The changes I have gone through emotionally and mentally have been the most rewarding for me. I better understand and accept who I am, allowing me to improve my relationships and understand my purpose within my community and other indigenous communities in NC.   –Teryn Smith (Sappony)

NLI came at a very critical point in my career. Proving to me that leadership is more than a position or a role, it’s part of an intricate journey that we are making, weaving exceptional parts of ourselves together for the betterment of our Native people. So as we embark on various career paths, it’s imperative to use the valuable resources we have gained through the inaugural NLI cohort experience.   –Kay Freeman (Coharie/Waccamaw Siouan)

I knew I held a leadership role in my community. However, through my participation in the NLI, I have recognized, accepted and appreciate the value and influence that I possess.  The retreats have validated that we are One People and we are the Future of Tomorrow.   The conversations from the retreats have inspired me as a Leader to, more than ever before, motivate those around me to our responsibilities to the next Seven Generations.  –Tony Locklear (Lumbee)

I had no idea that the Native Leadership Institute would not only provide me critical leadership skills but would truly set my heart on fire for my Native community.  –Leslie Locklear (Lumbee/Waccamaw Siouan)