In this talk, Dr. Heather Shotton (Wichita/Kiowa/Cheyenne) will explore what it means for institutions of higher education to become Indigenous serving. She will discuss the history of higher education with Indigenous communities and reframe approaches to better serve Indigenous students. Pulling from experience at Fort Lewis College, she will challenge us to consider ways to confront difficult histories and reclaim academic spaces as sites of Indigenous learning and practice.Dr. Heather J. Shotton is the 11th President of Fort Lewis College and the first Native American to lead the institution. A nationally recognized scholar and advocate for Indigenous education, Dr. Shotton brings over 20 years of experience in academic leadership, student success, and institutional transformation.An enrolled citizen of the Wichita & Affiliated Tribes and descendant of the Kiowa and Cheyenne Tribes, she has dedicated her career to advancing equity, reconciliation, and access in higher education. Her leadership at FLC centers on belonging, academic excellence, and honoring the institution’s unique history.A first-generation college graduate, Dr. Shotton previously served as Chair of Educational Leadership & Policy Studies at the University of Oklahoma and as Board President of the National Indian Education Association.Brought to you by The URI Honors Colloquium, an annual fall lecture series hosted at URI, serves as a university-wide educational forum that’s also open to the public. The Colloquium offers presentations and discussions of emerging lively, challenging intellectual issues.Visit URInvolved for complete event details.

Interviews give PNMs the opportunity to explain why they should be a part of our organization and how they can positively impact our organization.

The GSC Craft Club is a welcoming space where students can relax, de-stress, and connect with friends while creating fun and easy crafts. No experience is required—just bring your creativity and enjoy making something new each week! All are Welcome!Visit URInvolved for complete event details.

October is often the month we “put our gardens to bed” As the growing season comes to end, it is helpful to clean and put your garden to bed for the winter. A good fall cleanup provides multiple benefits for gardeners – it reduces weed populations and disease, minimizes plant insect pests, prevents rodent infestation, and eases the workload for next year’s spring planting.This workshops is offered for free thanks to the URI Master Gardener Program. All are welcome.To register or learn more visit: https://northkingstown-ri.whofi.com/calendar/event/1279432

Statewide Gardening Information and Soil Testing ScheduleFrom March through October, our URI Master Gardener volunteers offer free soil pH testing to Rhode Island residents, helping you understand your soil's health and providing recommendations for improvement. Bring a soil sample to the event and our experts will determine its pH levels and texture, offering guidance on achieving optimal soil conditions for your gardening needs.Additionally, explore our Gardening Information and Soil Testing (GIST) booth, where you can ask gardening questions and access a wealth of resources to support your horticultural goals.Learn how to take a soil sample and access the statewide schedule by visiting: uri.edu/coopext/services/gist