Native American Heritage Month at PBA

There are over 500 federally-recognized Native American tribes and Alaska Native Villages in the United States. This November, Palm Beach Atlantic University (PBA) is sharing the stories of two Native students and an alumna whose tribal traditions, faith journeys, and time at PBA have shaped them into who they are today.

Originally from Okeechobee, Florida, Angel Conlon (Poarch Creek)graduated in 2015 with a degree in communicationand a minor in creative writing. She says the university's emphasis on redemptive storytelling and two internships at local radio stations prepared her for her future. Today, she's the chief operating officer for a regional real estate firm and a realtor and freelance video editor.

While in college, she participated in PBA Tonight and Monday Night Live, an on-campus comedy group. As a small-town resident, she liked the diverse people, programs, and opportunities PBA and West Palm Beach offered. She says she's grateful Native American Heritage Month shines a light on Native histories, cultures, and contributions.

"I appreciate the recognition, not really for myself, but for everyone who came before me: for my family and those who still face discrimination, judgment, and prejudice," she says. "I appreciate that there is respect and honor for the Native American past."

Stone Parton (Sappony)is studying managementwith a special concentration in franchising. The junior's involvement in the Titus Center for Franchisinghas opened doors for internship opportunities. He currently interns at Exit Factor, a local consulting firm.

One of Parton's favorite tribal traditions is an annual summer camp, where he and other youth learned about Sappony history and enjoyed activities with other tribal members.

"Native American Heritage Month is a reminder to appreciate where I came from and the generations before me who made it possible to pursue opportunities like studying at PBA," says Parton, who grew up near Durham, North Carolina. "The biggest thing non-Natives can do to celebrate is to be curious. Ask questions and try to learn something new."

Freshman Patience Szynkowski (Tuscarora)is majoring in biologywith a concentration in molecular biology and biotechnology. Originally from the Tuscarora Reservation near Niagara Falls, New York, one of her favorite traditions is Nu:ya (nuu-yah). Each January 1, tribal members knock on neighbors' doors and say "Nu:ya" to receive sweet treats. Loved ones also prepare a feast together ahead of the new year.

Szynkowski says others can honor Native American Heritage Month by attending local tribal events and powwows, and learning more about the Indigenous American experience-past and present.

"On the res, life was not easy," shares Szynkowski, who wants to work in biotechnology to bring life-saving diagnoses and prosthetics to communities in need. "I didn't have running power; we were connected to solar panels. I feel like I can give others hope who might be experiencing similar issues."

Conlon celebrates Native American Heritage Month at the Poarch Creek Powwow in Atmore, Alabama. Each November, her family comes together for dancing, drum circles, and dinners. They also shop for Christmas gifts like jewelry and tapestries made by Native artists.

"I've enjoyed getting to learn about my heritage because it's so important to know about your culture and your family's history," says Conlon. "I am glad that our society is starting to recognize that Native Americans were here first."

Szynkowski agrees.

"For me, Native American Heritage Month is a remembrance of those in the residential schools who were stripped from their culture," she says. "It reminds us that we are still here-no matter what happened, we weren't erased from what we were before."

For more information about PBA's thriving West Palm Beach campus and many opportunities for student involvement, visit pba.edu/campus-life.