KU powwow festival committee announces nominations open for Dr. Melissa Peterson Native Advocacy Award

LAWRENCE — The KU Powwow & Indigenous Cultures Festival planning committee has announced the establishment of the Dr. Melissa Peterson Native Advocacy Award in recognition of a University of Kansas leader’s strong commitment to provide support, increase visibility and uphold the diverse cultures of tribal citizens and their communities.

Through her continued advocacy and leadership, Peterson, director of Hawk Link, has demonstrated a profound love for community and creating opportunities for tribal citizens to thrive on and off campus. She is also co-executive director of the Mentored Scholars Program and a KU impact adviser.

The award has been established to recognize and celebrate the advocacy work of others who embody the values of Peterson’s legacy. Award recipients will be selected by the powwow committee and will be presented annually at the KU Powwow & Indigenous Cultures Festival.

“The Lied Center has been honored to be a part of the KU Powwow & Indigenous Cultures Festival these past nine years. It has been amazing to work with Melissa Petersen and others, planning and implementing the KU Powwow & Indigenous Cultures Festival. Each year this event has grown and improved, and Melissa plays a huge role. The influence that Melissa has had on this event and on this university over the last few years is truly remarkable. Her leadership in organizing the KU powwow and collaborating with KU leadership to enhance the relationship between KU and tribal leaders has yielded significant outcomes,” said Anthea Scouffas, powwow committee member and Lied Center of Kansas engagement/education director.

The inaugural award was announced and presented to Peterson during a private spring 2024 graduation reception by members of the powwow committee and several KU graduating students, where she received a medallion created by Robin Shield.

“I was shocked that the committee orchestrated this award. But I am very honored and excited we get to honor someone new each year,” Peterson said. “We have talked about the different folks in our community who have stepped up and served, and this award is recognizing those individuals, many who serve not for the recognition.”

Peterson said those individuals and the heartfelt words by Native scholars about their interactions inspired her.

“Little do they and the people I work with on the committee realize, they are the reason I do this work, and without them, this work is not possible,” Peterson said.

Nominations are now being accepted for the 2025 Dr. Melissa Peterson Native Advocacy Award until Feb. 4. View more detailed award information and submit a nomination.