American Indian Cultural House

One of only a few programs of its kind in the nation

About

American Indian Cultural House LLC - icon of a turquoise-colored dreamcatcher

Established in 2003, this community for first-year students with American Indian heritage or who are interested in learning more about American Indian culture. We aim to provide a supportive community where the academic experiences of students are nurtured and enriched, as well as help in making friends and finding their niche on campus. Participants will have the opportunity to live, study, and participate in curricular activities together.

The American Indian Cultural House provides opportunities for students to explore their own identity as well as opportunities for students who want to reach beyond their own cultural background and learn about the experiences of others.

Our residents have the opportunity to gain leadership experience and help organize the AICH Film Series, participate in U of M American Indian student organizations, and get involved in special events such as the Annual Fall Round Dance, Spring Powwow, traditional storytelling, guest speakers, and monthly Frybread Fridays.

This community is open to first-year residents.
 

Benefits

  • Individualized academic coaching and holistic support from MCAE staff
  • Academic grade checks at the midpoint and end of each semester
  • Wellbeing programming including MCAE group fitness classes and stress management
  • Ongoing social and community-based events and regular study nights with MCAE peer tutors
  • MCAE LLC Alumni Engagement
  • Intentional connections with various on-campus resources

Details

Contact

For more information on opportunities and programs for current or future American Indian Cultural House residents, contact the Living Learning Community sponsor:

Louisa Harstad
American Indian Outreach & Engagement Student Specialist | Circle of Indigenous Nations

Email
[email protected]

Additional Information

Programming is sponsored and organized in connection with the Multicultural Center for Academic Excellence (MCAE) and the Community Advisors (CAs) on the floor who are excited about enhancing your living experience.

Community Size

MCAE Living Learning Community has a limit of 100 students.

Roommates

Students are given the option to room with members of their individual community or with a member of another community. For example, you are welcome to participate in the Huntley House for Black and African American men and request to live with someone from CASA SOL.

Second-Year Internships

Students who participate in one of the MCAE Living Learning Communities will be eligible to apply for one of MCAE’s second-year internship opportunities. The application process to become an intern begins in the spring semester. Your level of participation in the MCAE LLCs may serve as part of the criteria for being selected as an intern.

MCAE Living Learning Community Requirements

Students who select one of the MCAE LLC communities on their housing application will receive a follow-up email with application details.

Interested students should consider the following requirements:

  • Must be a first-year student
  • Must share an identity as a first-generation student, American Indian, and/or a student of color
  • Must submit a completed MCAE LLC application. Students who select one of the MCAE LLC communities on their housing application will receive a follw-up email with application details.
  • Must commit to participate in academic coaching and holistic support from MCAE staff
  • Must commit to attending regular community meetings and events
  • Must be fully present at MCAE LLC events, remain open to new ideas and experiences, and make an effort to get to know other members of the MCAE LLC community