Native Issues
Higher education
Apr 23, 2025

Fort Lewis names first Indigenous president


April 23, 2025

Fort Lewis College has appointed Dr. Heather Shotton as its first Indigenous president, effective July 1. Shotton, a citizen of the Wichita and Affiliated Tribes and a descendant of the Kiowa and Cheyenne, was unanimously selected by the board of trustees. She brings more than 20 years of experience in education leadership and student advocacy. Fort Lewis, a former Indian boarding school, currently enrolls a student body that is 40% Native American and Alaska Native.

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