Higher academic participants honored for their achievements

Sarah Cummins

7/9/2001 12:00:00 AM

As a Saginaw Chippewa Tribal member completes her degree, she reminds her peers that educational paths may change in order to stay on course for academic goals.

Christine Pego-Murray recently obtained her doctorate from the University of Oklahoma-College of Medicine. She studied at several different institutions to complete her undergraduate work, including Dartmouth College, Oklahoma City University and the University of Oklahoma.

"There have been some key things along the way that haven't changed," she explained at the 2001 Higher Education/Eagle Spirit Awards Banquet on June 22 at the Soaring Eagle Casino & Resort. "I've always known I wanted to be a doctor. However, your plan can change a little bit; your path can change to achieve your goal."

The annual event honors Tribal members who have graduated from college degree programs or earned high grade point averages. The High Spirit Singers provided song for the luncheon, and Elder Maria Meyers gave the blessing.

"I really enjoy this event as a great opportunity to get together and celebrate what our students can do," stated Higher Education Coordinator Sharon Skutt.

This year, there were about 200 students in the Scholarship, Leadership or Youth Leadership programs. A total of 83 students were honored at the event for their academic success. Twelve students graduated from various degree programs, and 24 students were awarded the Outstanding Academic Achievement Award for achieving a 3.5 grade point average or higher. Students who achieved a 3.0 in their classes received Academic Incentive Awards.

The students who received the Outstanding Academic Achievement Award, included Sharon Avery, Terry Bonnau, Mary Bukowiec, David Charles, Kayle Crampton, Carmen DeLosSantos, Eleanor Ebright, Kari Ellis, Glenna Halliwill, Ronald Johansen, Daniel Kirby, Tracy Kopke, Gloria Larson, Timothy Nelson, Kandy Ojeda, Alexis Pelcher, Brian Peters, LeeAnn Ruffino, Michael Schramm, Amy Shawboose, Christopher Sineway, Joshua VanHorn, Carol Wheaton and Janice Wilcox.

Pego-Murray, who served as the event's keynote speaker, has shown dedication and commitment in order to achieve her career goals, according to Skutt.

"Christina is an incredible role model and asset to the Tribe," stated Skutt. "She plans to return here and practice at the Nimkee Memorial Wellness Center."

Pego-Murray gave three points of advice to Native people interested in higher education.

"Use the tools that are available to you," she stated. She said one of the easiest and best resources available to students is the Tribe. She cited per capita, Scholarship Program and Leadership Program as accessible through the Tribe.

She also encouraged current students to take college preparatory classes and tests.

A college student's peer group may also be a great resource, according to Pego-Murray. She suggested that students can study together. She also said if a student needs help, he or she should not be afraid to get a tutor.

The second part of her advice for those pursuing degrees included Native American groups on the student campus. Pego-Murray felt that "staying close to your roots;" learning about Native American history, law and culture; and keeping in touch with family, friends and the Tribe all helped her with college life. She also enjoyed being friends with other Native American students and felt a connection because many of them were there on scholarships and were from small communities.

The young doctor's third point was about delaying gratification or, essentially, being patient. Whether students choose 4 to 14 years of post-secondary education, Pego-Murray said they will feel a great pride in their accomplishments.

"Honor yourself and those who have come before you along the way," stated Pego-Murray. "Realize your potential."