American Indian Studies Chair Receives National Honor

Joely Proudfit, the founding chair of the American Indian studies department at CSUSM, recently received the 2024 educator of the year award, presented by the National Indian Education Association’s Lifetime Achievement and Cultural Freedom Awards.  The awards recognize and honor individuals and organizations who have made significant contributions to the education of American Indian, Alaska Native and Native Hawaiian people.

Proudfit was recognized due to her influence on the K-16 education system. As the founding department chair of American Indian studies at CSUSM, she helped create a space celebrating Indigenous knowledge and traditions. She was a founding member of California Indian Education for All (CIEFA), which has led to culturally responsive materials that enrich Native students' experiences and foster understanding among non-Native learners. She also has taught and developed more than 50 American Indian studies courses. 

In addition to her teaching accolades, Proudfit is the co-editor of a 10-book series, “On Indian Ground: A Return to Indigenous Knowledge," which discusses American Indian education across U.S. regions. The books spread helpful information to educators and policymakers and help develop curriculums. Her upcoming book, “Beyond the American Indian Stereotype: There's More to Me Than What You See,” promises to further challenge misconceptions and promote a more nuanced understanding of Indigenous identities.

Proudfit is a part of the National Advisory Council on Indian Education and the California Commission on the Status of Women and Girls. Through this work, she has helped influence policy at the state and national levels, advising the state superintendent of public instruction on American Indian education programs.

Proudfit created CSUSM’s Beyond the Stereotype poster campaign, which educates communities about cultural appropriation and stereotypes. Her students' collaborative work led to the passing of significant legislation such as Assembly Bill 233 (2017), which ensures the right to wear cultural adornments at graduation ceremonies, and AB 30 (2015), which eliminates racially derogatory mascots in California public schools.

Proudfit founded the California's American Indian & Indigenous Film Festival, has helped consult and produce for major networks, and helped develop educational curriculum for the shows. 

Media Contact

Eric Breier, Interim assistant director of editorial and external affairs
ebreier@csusm.edu | Office: 760-750-7314