Although East Carolina University School of Dental Medicine student Madisyn French is far from her hometown of Cherokee, N.C., she is eager to establish her role in the clinical environment of Ross Hall.

ᏗᏓᏂᏏᏍᎩ ᎦᏓᏆᏟ Didanisisgi Gadagwatli: A Showcase of Pottery from the Mud Dauber Community Workshop opens at the Museum of the Cherokee People on Thursday, May 29. On view through May 2026, the exhibition features works by students of Tara McCoy (Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians) handcrafted during an intensive three-month workshop.

“The language we were forbidden to speak is the same language that helped save the United States of America”

May is National Arthritis Awareness Month, bringing attention to one of the most common chronic health conditions affecting adults in the United States. For many, arthritis can make everyday activities – like getting dressed, cooking, or even holding a cup – more difficult and sometimes painful. While there is no cure, there are ways to manage symptoms and maintain independence, and one important resource is Occupational Therapy (OT).

Michell Hicks, Ugvwiyuhi (Principal Chief) of the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians, has been named the recipient of Southwestern Community College’s 2025 Distinguished Alumni Award.

The Ray Kinsland Leadership Institute (RKLI) is proud to share two exciting updates that reflect their continued commitment to culturally based leadership development for the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians (EBCI).

Jeff Helpman, pastor of The Grove Church on Franklin Grove in Bryson City, heads a Code Purple warming center at his church with the help of his wife, Jodi Helpman, who is graduating this May from Western Carolina University’s Master of Social Work program.