The Curt & Catherine Locklear American Indian Heritage Center (AIHC) at UNC Pembroke
is a vibrant hub where culture, community and success come together. The AIHC empowers
students with dedicated cultural, social and academic programs and fosters campus-wide
cultural understanding through educational initiatives. At the AIHC, heritage is honored,
futures are shaped and leadership begins.
Supporting Our Students
The AIHC is here to strengthen your academic experience with scholarships, career
resources and community connections. From funding opportunities to career mentorship,
the AIHC offers a range of programs.
Explore AIHC’s signature programs that connect you with indigenous heritage and career-building
opportunities. Join us for cultural events, conferences and networking designed to
enrich your academic experience and honor Native traditions.
Southeast Native Studies Conference
Join the Southeast Native Studies Conference to engage with scholars, students and
community members to discuss the cultures, histories and contemporary experiences
of Native Americans in the Southeast United States. This annual event fosters dialogue
and learning that honors Southeast American Indian cultures and histories.
The Southeast Native Studies Conference is more than just a scholarly gathering —
it’s a celebration of our resilience, our voices and our shared story as Native peoples
of the Southeast. It creates space for meaningful dialogue between tribal communities,
students and researchers, and helps ensure that our histories and cultures are studied
with the respect and depth they deserve.
John Lowery
Lumbee Tribal Chairman
BraveNation Powwow & Gathering
Celebrate with us at the BraveNation Powwow & Gathering! Experience the rich traditions
of music, dance and ceremony as we honor Native American heritage. Open to students,
families and community members, this event offers an incredible look into the spirit
and vibrancy of American Indian culture.
The BraveNation Powow is a moment where tradition comes alive through vibrant regalia,
the rhythm of the drum, and the strength of our shared heritage. This gathering is
more than an event—it’s a space for honoring the past, embracing the present, and
inspiring future generations."
Asa Locklear
Native Speakers Series
Hear from respected Native speakers and leaders as they share their stories, insights
and cultural wisdom. The Native Speakers Series offers a unique opportunity to engage
directly with voices from the indigenous community.
Despite everything that Native communities have endured and lost, we are still here,
and we are proud of who we are.
Quannah Chasinghorse
International Model and Indigenous Activist
Honoring Native Foodways
This special gathering brings together dedicated elders and volunteers to prepare
and share traditional dishes, showcasing Indigenous ingredients and cooking methods
inspired by Native cultures. It’s a powerful celebration of heritage, community, and
the rich culinary traditions of Indigenous peoples.
Getting to experience traditional Indigenous foods isn’t just about tasting something
new, but really understanding the deep cultural roots and health benefits of these
ingredients. Food can connect us to history, community and even wellness.
Ahelayous Oxouzidis
Indigenous Power Hour
The Indigenous Power Hour workshops are one-hour sessions that provide a space for
students to discuss a variety of topics related to college life, culture, health and
more. Please email james.rudd@uncp.edu for more information.
Southeast Native Studies Conference
Join the Southeast Native Studies Conference to engage with scholars, students and
community members to discuss the cultures, histories and contemporary experiences
of Native Americans in the Southeast United States. This annual event fosters dialogue
and learning that honors Southeast American Indian cultures and histories.
The Southeast Native Studies Conference is more than just a scholarly gathering —
it’s a celebration of our resilience, our voices and our shared story as Native peoples
of the Southeast. It creates space for meaningful dialogue between tribal communities,
students and researchers, and helps ensure that our histories and cultures are studied
with the respect and depth they deserve.
John Lowery
Lumbee Tribal Chairman
BraveNation Powwow & Gathering
Celebrate with us at the BraveNation Powwow & Gathering! Experience the rich traditions
of music, dance and ceremony as we honor Native American heritage. Open to students,
families and community members, this event offers an incredible look into the spirit
and vibrancy of American Indian culture.
The BraveNation Powow is a moment where tradition comes alive through vibrant regalia,
the rhythm of the drum, and the strength of our shared heritage. This gathering is
more than an event—it’s a space for honoring the past, embracing the present, and
inspiring future generations."
Asa Locklear
Native Speakers Series
Hear from respected Native speakers and leaders as they share their stories, insights
and cultural wisdom. The Native Speakers Series offers a unique opportunity to engage
directly with voices from the indigenous community.
Despite everything that Native communities have endured and lost, we are still here,
and we are proud of who we are.
Quannah Chasinghorse
International Model and Indigenous Activist
Honoring Native Foodways
This special gathering brings together dedicated elders and volunteers to prepare
and share traditional dishes, showcasing Indigenous ingredients and cooking methods
inspired by Native cultures. It’s a powerful celebration of heritage, community, and
the rich culinary traditions of Indigenous peoples.
Getting to experience traditional Indigenous foods isn’t just about tasting something
new, but really understanding the deep cultural roots and health benefits of these
ingredients. Food can connect us to history, community and even wellness.
Ahelayous Oxouzidis
Indigenous Power Hour
The Indigenous Power Hour workshops are one-hour sessions that provide a space for
students to discuss a variety of topics related to college life, culture, health and
more. Please email james.rudd@uncp.edu for more information.
The AIHC provided me with so many opportunities to connect with classmates, meet new
people and participate in activities that connected me to the campus and my culture.
Located on the first floor of Old Main, the museum offers a rich collection of authentic
American Indian artifacts, handicrafts, art, books, cassettes, record albums and filmstrips
about Native Americans, with emphasis on the Lumbee Indians of Robeson County. An
exciting variety of exhibits is on display, including prehistoric tools and weapons,
19th century Lumbee household and farm equipment and contemporary Indian art.
As a center for research, tribal engagement and student support, SAIS offers unique
opportunities for you to explore topics relevant to Southeast American Indian communities
— from environmental issues to health challenges. Find opportunities for academic
and community-focused initiatives, including collaborative research and service-learning
projects with local tribes.
Planning for college?
The Native Pathways Guidebook from the American Indian College Fund is a free, must-read resource for high school
students exploring their path to higher education.
Be sure to watch the video below and hear from students for even more tools, tips
and opportunities designed to support your success.
Visit Us
The newly renovated American Indian Heritage Center offers a welcoming space for students
to gather, learn and find support. We have quiet study spaces, meeting rooms and a
kitchenette for all of your needs. From resources to social events, the AIHC is here
for you.
Location: Old Main 240 PO Box 1510 Pembroke, NC 28372
The curtain is again rising on Strike at the Wind!, the iconic outdoor drama that tells the story of Lumbee hero Henry Berry Lowrie.
As the summer season returns to the Lumbee Tribe's cultural center amphitheater, audiences can expect powerful storytelling, community collaboration and a few exciting changes — both on and off the stage.
Bridging generations through storytelling and art, a group of English and art students at UNC Pembroke joined forces to capture the lives of senior members of the Lumbee community in a unique intergenerational project.