New to Whitworth University, the Indigenous Student Association (ISA) was founded at the end of the Spring 2025 semester by Jerricha Stripedwolf, the club’s president.

“I hadn’t really seen a presence for indigenous advocation on Whitworth’s campus, as much as I had seen and been involved with WSU, Eastern and UW,” said Stripedwolf, “I came to Whitworth on the Multicultural Leadership Program, which made it easier to […] be able to start a club that’s open for everyone, anybody who’s interested in indigenous heritage or advocating as college students.”

The ISA puts on regular events at the International Student Center, such as a bi-weekly Talking Circle, which is a traditional ceremony in Native American culture based on respect and communication.

“Everybody is in a circle, and a sacred object is passed around. I usually have, like, a feather or something. […] and we talk about different subjects,” said Stripedwolf, “I know we talked about indigenous health disparities the last time.”

On Oct. 10, they hosted Fry Bread Night, which garnered a large turnout.

“I made fry bread,” said Stripedwolf, “I leaked my recipe. I explained the cultural significance and the history behind it.”

On Nov. 14, the ISA had Dr. Naomi Bender, who is the inaugural director of tribal relations for Spokane colleges, come speak on learning ways of holistic healing through trauma.

Stripedwolf emphasized how grateful she was for all the support the ISA has received from the Whitworth staff.

“I feel like I’ve been very seen and heard by staff, and I feel very supported,” said Stripedwolf, “I feel like […] this club means a lot, not just because I started it, but just because it means a lot to have indigenous representation on campus.”

Stripedwolf already has more events she plans on having for the ISA.

“My big goal […] is to have an end-of-year powwow, similar formatting to the luau that the Polynesian club puts on,” she said, “I’m also working on some huckleberry picking trips and also some food drives to tribes in the area that’s accessible in Washington.”

In addition to those events, Stripedwolf is working to have a traditional indigenous medicine course implemented in the Whitworth curriculum.

For more updates and information on the ISA’s events, follow them on Instagram at @indigenousstudentassociation.