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A number of programs like Niganawenimaanaanig and the IHS American Indians Into Nursing Program aim to recruit Native nurses. Still the U.S. Census’ American Community Survey finds Native Americans make up a tiny fraction of all registered nurses. We’ll hear from some Native nurses about what the profession is like and hear from recruiters who say Native representation is sorely needed in hospitals and clinics.
Guests:
Dr. Misty Wilkie (Turtle Mountain Chippewa) – associate professor at Bemidji State University
Loretta Heuer – professor at North Dakota State University school of Nursing
Rebekah Dunlap (Fond du Lac Band of Lake Superior Chippewa) – RN, BSN, PHN
Debbie Jeanotte (Turtle Mountain Chippewa) – retired registered nurse
Break Music: Sunrise Song (song) Khu.éex’ (artist) They Forgot They Survived (album)
I was hoping I’d get to make one final comment so I could connect students to NANAINA–the National Alaska Native American Indian Nurses Association. NANAINA wants to serve as mentors to those who need/want them. Our mission and values can be found on our website at http://www.nanainanurses.com. It’s also a great way to connect to other indigenous nurses across the country. We will be hosting a national conference in St. Paul, MN on June 8-9, 2018.
Also, for the financial aid question there are nursing programs available that provide financial assistance such as the Niganawenimaanaanig Program at Bemidji State University.
Would they pay for school?