Native Issues
Higher education
Apr 23, 2025

Fort Lewis names first Indigenous president

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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