LEARNING: Nate Crowe, an EBCI tribal member, participates in the Judaculla Camp this summer, a partnership between Western Carolina University and the Eastern Band of Cherokee Education and Training program. (WCU photo)
After two years in the making, Western Carolina University and Eastern Band of Cherokee Education and Training program partnered this summer to host the very first Judaculla Camp. The camp was named after a significant Cherokee Legend and immortal being that roamed the mountains of Cullowhee at one time. This week long camp was designed specifically for Eastern Band of Cherokee rising sophomores, juniors and seniors as WCU pulled together many departments and collaborators to mark this amazing milestone between the EBCI and WCU communities.
The group had the opportunity to experience college life by living on campus and visiting the many fabulous career paths offered at WCU. Some of the topics included engineering, Cherokee studies, cultural diversity, archeology, and health sciences. The students experienced hands on learning and team building exercises that they could take with them after high school. The group was also able to meet with current EBCI students and EBCI alumni during the special week which allowed them to gain some advice about college life.
Sky Sampson, WCU Cherokee Center director, says, “We want our EBCI students to find a connection at WCU. It is our responsibility to show these students all that WCU can offer them throughout their education and that WCU is striving to connect with our communities daily.”
She added, “The Cherokee Center staff would like to thank the EBCI Education and Training staff, the Educational Outreach staff, EBCI alumni, current EBCI students and WCU higher administration for their efforts and support towards the planning and implementation of Judaculla Week.”
– WCU
