Michelle Jacob

Michelle Jacob is Professor of Indigenous Studies and Director of the Sapsik’ʷałá (Teacher) Education Program in the Department of Education Studies at the University of Oregon's College of Arts and Sciences. She also serves as Affiliated Faculty in the Department of Indigenous, Race, and Ethnic Studies and the Environmental Studies Program.

• Education:
  • Ph.D. in Sociology (Human Development), University of California, Santa Barbara (2004)
  • M.A. in Sociological Practice, California State University, San Marcos (2001)
  • B.A. in Liberal Studies (Interdisciplinary Program), California State University, San Marcos (1998)

Her research focuses on Indigenous methodologies, spirituality, health, education, Indigenous feminisms, and decolonization. She has received grant funding from the U.S. Department of Education, National Endowment for the Humanities, Spencer Foundation, and National Science Foundation.

Michelle’s scholarly work intersects with her activism in promoting Indigenous knowledge systems and health equity. Her publications span social science, education, and health science research journals, forming a cohesive body of work centered on Indigenous sovereignty and educational transformation.

Prior to joining the University of Oregon, she served as Founding Director of the Center for Native Health & Culture at Heritage University on the Yakama Reservation and as Professor of Ethnic Studies at the University of San Diego.