CENTER FOR NATIVE AMERICAN AND INDIGENOUS RESEARCH

Jennifer Michals

Program Assistant

Phone number: 847-491-4133
Office location: 515 Clark
E-mail: jennifer.michals@northwestern.edu

Jennifer Michals  holds a B.A. and M.A. in Sociology from De Paul University. She brings with her over 15 years experience in higher education in areas such as teaching, advising, research, and administration. She is committed to increasing the visibility and voice of Native American and Indigenous scholarship, as well as enriching the experience for Native and Indigenous students in higher education. She is looking forward to building community partnerships and supporting Native and Indigenous research. In her spare time she enjoys reading, cooking, and spending time with her family.

Pamala M. Silas, CAE

Associate DIrector, Community Outreach and Engagement

Phone number: 847-467-3183
Office location: 515 Clark
E-mail: pamala.silas@northwestern.edu

Pamala has been a recognized leader for over 25 years addressing issues of equity, leadership, community development, housing and education in under-represented communities.  She has successfully lead regional and national non-profit organizations as well as served on boards, councils, taskforces and advisory addressing these issues.

Pamala has a B.S. in Economics from DePaul University and is a Certified Association Executive (CAE).  She is an enrolled member of the Menominee Tribe of Wisconsin and descendant of the Oneida Tribe of Wisconsin. 

Her former positions include; Executive Director for National American Indian Housing Council, Native American Journalists Association and prior to forming her own Association Management & Consulting Company, Pam served 8 years as CEO of American Indian Science & Engineering Society’s national operation.  In Chicago, she served as Executive Director for Metropolitan Tenants Organization, leading housing campaigns and aggressive direct organizing efforts with low-income tenants.