Conservation Science Center at New Mexico Highlands University
Conservation Science Center at New Mexico Highlands University
The mission of the Conservation Science Center at Highlands University is to build the capacity of Hispanic and Native students to actively lead the stewardship of local landscapes. New Mexico's stewardship of natural resources often does not represent the cultural and intrinsic values of local communities. Yet these same communities are disproportionately affected by climate change degradation.
The place-based programs of NMHU combine cultural relevancy, leadership, and socio-emotional development to increase persistence in STEM while building resilience in our youth as they navigate enriching and challenging interactions in the diversification of of the STEM workforce.
Last year, the Santa Fe Community Foundation awarded a grant to the Conservation Science Center at Highlands University to support equitable and accessible pathways to STEM for Native and hispanic youth.
"Initially, we focused on increasing engagement in immersive science programming, such as ChemXchange, where NMHU undergraduates led lab experiments and practiced near-peer mentoring with Mesa Vista high schoolers," said Shantini Ramakrishnan , Conservation & Restoration Education Program Manager at the Conservation Science Center. "Then, the largest fire in New Mexico history happened."
The Hermit’s Peak/Calf Canyon fire redefined our landscape and our focus as we considered our displaced population and the multitude of challenges ahead. We quickly pivoted and used SFCF funds to support “Querencia in Action” workshops designed to build community capacity in post-fire land restoration. The flexibility of Santa Fe Community Foundation funds allowed us to respond quickly to meet an urgent community need.
Santa Fe Indigenous Center
The Santa Fe Indigenous Center is a Native-led nonprofit serving Indigenous families across Santa Fe County. Through biweekly food drives, cultural events, community programs, emergency financial assistance, and a robust network of referral resources, SFIC supports the diverse needs of the local Indigenous community. Each year, the organization hosts its signature event — the Honoring Native Nations Powwow on Indigenous Peoples’ Day — bringing dancers, drummers, Tribal Dignitaries, artists, and community members together to celebrate Indigenous culture, joy, and resilience. This year’s powwow was a vibrant success, and SFIC looks forward to continuing this tradition in 2026.
Wheelwright Museum of the American Indian
Last year, the Wheelwright Museum of the American Indian opened Carved Stories by Hopi artist Mavasta Honyouti. Featuring all sixteen low-relief carvings from the Coming Home series — created in tandem with Honyouti’s children’s book Coming Home: A Hopi Resistance Story — the exhibit recounts his grandfather Clyde Honyouti’s experience at an off-reservation federal boarding school. This Indigenous-led project offers a powerful and visually compelling reflection on Hopi life, culture, and history. As Brian Vallo notes, “Carved Stories… is both powerful and beautiful.”
Kha'p'o Community School
With support from the Native American Advised Fund, sixth-grade students at Kha’p’o Community School embarked on Our Voice, Our Stories — a year-long documentary project blending traditional Tewa arts and modern digital storytelling. Through pottery, weaving, sewing, and film, students explored their cultural identity and celebrated their voices as young Tewa people.
