Michelle M. Jacob

Michelle M. Jacob, an enrolled member of the Yakama Nation, serves as Professor in the Department of Education Studies at the University of Oregon's College of Education. She also holds affiliated faculty appointments in the Department of Indigenous, Race, and Ethnic Studies and the Environmental Studies Program, and directs the Sapsik’ʷałá (Teacher) Education Program.

Her educational background:

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

Dr. Jacob's research centers on Indigenous methodologies, spirituality, health, education, Indigenous feminisms, and decolonization, focusing on holistic well-being in Indigenous communities. She is author of influential works including 'Yakama Rising: Indigenous Cultural Revitalization, Activism, and Healing', 'Indian Pilgrims: Indigenous Journeys of Activism and Healing with Saint Kateri Tekakwitha', and co-edited 'On Indian Ground: A Return to Indigenous Knowledge-Generating Hope, Leadership and Sovereignty through Education in the Northwest', with recent publications 'The Auntie Way: Stories Celebrating Kindness, Fierceness, and Creativity' and 'Huckleberries and Coyotes: Lessons from Our More than Human Relations'.

Her scholarly impact is recognized through major research grants from the U.S. Department of Education, National Endowment for the Humanities, Spencer Foundation, and National Science Foundation. As Director of the Sapsik’ʷałá program, she mentors Indigenous teacher candidates and guides community-based research initiatives.

Dr. Jacob leads the Sapsik’ʷałá (Teacher) Education Program dedicated to preparing Indigenous educators for community service, maintaining deep collaborations with Indigenous communities across the Columbia River basin where she actively engages in land-based activism and knowledge revitalization.