Amplifying Indigenous Excellence
[Photo Credit: University of Utah Native Excellence and Tribal Engagement]
The University of Utah recently presented their second annual Native American Excellence Gala on June 28, 2024.
IHAWC recently had the incredible opportunity to attend the Native Excellence Gala hosted by the University of Utah Center of Native Excellence and Tribal Engagement [formerly known as the University of Utah American Indian Recourse Center] and we wanted to share our experience with all of you. The Native Excellence Gala is an annual event that celebrates and honors the rich and diverse cultures of Indigenous communities.
Prior to the Gala, a VIP reception in which attendees had the opportunity to meet awardees, Tribal leaders, singers, community members, and University of Utah representatives.
The Gala kicked off with a traditional blessing, and was immediately struck by the sense of unity and pride that filled the room. The evening was filled with performances by the talented Native American musician, showcasing hand drum music and round dance of native traditions.
[Photo Credit: Ute Bulletin]
It was a night filled with inspiring stories and impactful speeches. The highlight of the evening the the IHAWC was the award for Native Excellence in the Community, IHAWC’s own Executive Director, Shelby Chapoose.
Shelby’s work is recognized through the Indigenous community, her work impacts the Indigenous Community throughout the state of Utah and surround states.
"When I stepped into the position of Executive Director for Indigenous Health and Wellness connections, or IHAWC for short, the acting board of directors and I had the opportunity to re-write the mission and vision. We wanted to convey to those outside of an indigenous community, that health and wellness for us, doesn’t necessarily mean the same as the westernized definition. Health and wellness is about finding your personal balance. For some, finding this personal balance is focusing physical health and nutrition. For others it means participating in ceremony, or connecting with the land.
`After agreeing to the mission statement, it was now my job to fulfill it. So with no funding I decided to pull on a strength that was instilled in me by my family and was fostered through example by my own community growing up on the U&O. This strength is collaboration.
Through events and actives in collaboration with likely minded organizations, IHAWC has been able to assist individuals in finding their personal balance through connecting with others. These connections lead to empowered and strong communities.
With the work I do, I hope to assist in healing and balances seeking. I am driven by a personal and very obtainable vision that I will see my family and our communities thrive. I consider myself an advocate and I genuinely love the work I do and the communities I serve.
I am Shelby Chapoose. I am Uncompahre Ute; the daughter of Michelle Chapoose; the granddaughter of the late Judge Sherrie Dixon Chapoose Woodland and the late Haskell Chapoose; I serve as the Executive Director of Indigenous Health and Wellness Connections and it is an honor to be recognized tonight."
However, what truly made the evening unforgettable were the other award recipients of the University of Utah Native Excellence Awards. Each individual's personal accomplishments and impact on the Indigenous communities presented their resilience, strength, and unwavering commitment to preserving their heritage left a lasting impact on everyone in attendance. It was a profound reminder of the challenges that Indigenous communities continue to face, and the importance of supporting and uplifting their voices.
Overall, the Native American Gala was an appealing celebration of culture, tradition, and community. It was a powerful reminder of the affluence and diversity of Indigenous heritage and the importance of honoring and preserving it for future generations to come.
IHAWC is incredibly grateful to have been a part of such a meaningful and inspiring event, and we look forward to continuing to learn from and support Native American communities in any way IHAWC can.
To support IHAWC in our mission and vision, please consider donating to IHAWC by visiting
Comments