arbor sketch

 

American Indian Hall was constructed in 2021 after a long design process. The arbor was intended to be in the original construction timeline, however, due to funding constraints it was unable to be completed. Thanks to the generous contributions to our donors, the Elouise Cobell Garden Arbor installation is underway and near completion. 

Elouise Cobell Arbor at MSU was intentionally designed with Native students in mind. The concept for the space was rooted in the original design plans, which emphasized creating a welcoming, culturally resonant environment that reflects and honors Native heritage. Every element was considered to support community, connection, and the journey of students as they navigate both academic and personal growth.

Who is the Arbor Named After

Elouise Cobell (1945–2011), a member of the Blackfeet Nation, was a pioneering Native American activist and banker best known for leading the historic class-action lawsuit Cobell v. Salazar, which resulted in a $3.4 billion settlement over federal mismanagement of Native trust funds. She founded the first Native-owned national bank and received numerous honors, including a MacArthur “Genius” Grant and the Presidential Medal of Freedom (posthumously). Her legacy lives on through the Cobell Scholarship and her enduring impact on Native rights, financial justice, and education.

In the instilation of this arbor, we honor the legagy of Elouise Cobell - her vision, leadership, and tireless advocacy for native communities. 

Grand Reveal - October 2025

The arbor is set to be complete Fall 2025. In alignment with MSU's commitment to Indigenious People's Day, we invite our MSU and broader community to celebrate the Grand Reveal of the arbor. 

Events:

Tours of AIH

Dedication, remarks, and blessing

Art Exhibit - Winold Reiss

Door prizes

Food and refreshments

Information:

Date: October 13th - Indigenous People's Day

Time: 11am - 2pm

Location: American Indian Hall, MSU-Bozeman Campus

Parking: MSU Parking Garage (paid) Code: GRA25

Agenda: Due to weather, we will be holding most of the events indoors. We will be going outside for the blessing and smudge. Please dress appropriately. 

11:00am - Self-guided tours and Winhold Reiss Art Display

11:00am - Buffet food services and mingling

12:00pm - Welcome from current Department Head of Native American Studies, Dr. Meredith Hecker and President Tessman 

12:10pm - Background and intention of arbor build - Elizabeth Prichard (MSU Project Manager) and Dr. Walter Fleming (Former Department Head of Native American Studies) 

12:25pm - Honoring various people who have been involved in the arbor project and Elousie Cobell's family

12:40pm - American Indian Council (Student Organization) Leadership

12:45pm - Move out to arbor

12:50pm - Blessing my Darnell and Robert Rides At The Door (Blackfeet Elders) & Smudge

01:00pm - Honor our Elders

01:00pm - Door prize drawings

 

Livestream will be available, see our Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/groups/55238552270 

 

 

For more information, please contact nas@montana.edu