River Webb (Nimíipuu/Sac and Fox, they/she)
Graduate Student,
River Webb is graduating with a Masters degree in Geology from Cornell University’s Earth and Atmospheric Sciences Department. River’s work examines the volcanic cycles of their tribal homelands in and around Yellowstone National Park. They have also studied the petrology of the Juan de Fuca ridge off the Washington coast, and gathered data on river systems affected by mining projects throughout the Americas.
River was named a traditional scientist and knowledge keeper in 2022 for their preservation efforts in titóoqatimt, their Native tongue. The National Park Service named River a Tribal Heritage Fellow in 2023. They hold the title of International Two Spirit Ambassador from the International Two Spirit Council, and Wabanaki Two Spirit Alliance based in Nova Scotia, Canada. River is a fifth generation seamstress and women’s powwow dancer, dancing traditional styles such as Basket Hat/short fringe, as well as women’s applique/scrub dance.
As a student River received the David A. Call Award from the American Indian and Indigenous Studies Program in 2024. This award recognizes an Indigenous graduate or professional student who displays outstanding leadership, service, and commitment in pursuit of a graduate or a professional degree. It honors Dean Emeritus David L. Call, Dean of the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences (1978-1995). As dean, he provided tireless and loyal support for Indigenous students in higher education and remains a beloved friend of the American Indian and Indigenous Studies Program.
A photograph of River's traditional Meskwaki bandolier bag was selected in 2023 to be on display on the Olin Library elevator doors, from the year's theme of "backstory".
“…I decided to share this bandolier bag I made recently in the traditional colors of our Meskwaki people…The colors represent my ancestors before me, my backstory, yet this design will become someone else’s backstory, as this bag and these symbols will live on within our family and tribe for generations to come.”