Blackfeet Community College Celebrates 32 Years as a Land-Grant College

October 19, 2026

Blackfeet Community College will celebrate 32 years as a Land-Grant College on Wednesday, October 21, 2026, with Iitoomsapi – First Charging Out, a day honoring the history, knowledge, and community partnerships that continue to shape the college's Land-Grant programs.

The anniversary celebration will take place from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., beginning in the Student Commons and continuing with program showcases and activities across campus. Students, staff, and community members are invited to participate in a day of learning, recognition, and connection.

Land Grant Day Schedule

10:00–10:10 a.m. | Opening Ceremony

The celebration will begin with an acknowledgment of the animals, an opening prayer, and smudge led by Marvin Weatherwax Sr.

10:10–10:20 a.m. | Welcome and Opening Remarks

BFCC President Brad Hall will provide welcome and anniversary remarks recognizing 32 years as a Land-Grant College.

10:30–10:50 a.m. | Keynote Presentation: History of the Land Grant

Terry Tatsey, Blackfeet Tribal Business Council Chairman and Knowledge Carrier, will present on the history of the Land Grant and its significance.

10:50–11:30 a.m. | Land Grant Team Introductions

Attendees will meet members of the Land Grant team and learn how their programs connect with Iinii through a discussion centered on the question, “What Is the Relationship of Iinii to Your Program?”

Presenting team members include:

  • Felix Nez, USDA Tribal College Extension Program

  • Warren Juneau, USDA Equity

  • Melissa Weatherwax, Institutional Development

  • Cheryl Madman, Workforce Development

  • Alicia Yellowowl, Meat Processing

  • Helen Augare, Native Science Field Center

  • Angel LittlePlume, Piikani Studies

  • Aaron LaFromboise, Medicine Spring Library

The session will also include Ohkanipstaki.

11:30–11:40 a.m. | Student and Staff Honor Song

The program will include the BFCC Honor Song, honorable mentions, and recognition of individuals and their contributions.

11:45 a.m.–12:00 p.m. | Buffalo Partnership Video and Panel Introduction

Attendees will have the opportunity to view the release of the buffalo partnership video, highlighting an important part of the college's partnerships and work.

12:00–1:00 p.m. | Community Gut Feed

Everyone is invited to gather for the Community Gut Feed, a time to share a meal and connect with students, staff, and community members.

The gathering will also feature a Knowledge Carrier Healthy Harvesting presentation by Liza England, highlighting traditional knowledge and healthy harvesting practices.

Land Grant Program Showcases Across Campus

1:35–3:00 p.m. | Program Showcases and Breakout Sessions

The afternoon will feature Land Grant program showcases throughout campus. Attendees can visit program stations, learn about current projects, and connect directly with the teams supporting these programs.

Breakout sessions will run for 20 minutes each, with 10-minute transitions between sessions.

Program locations include:

  • USDA Extension: BPL Student Commons

  • USDA Equity: Ashes Chief Building

  • Institutional Development and Blackfeet Energy Knowledge Institute: YBW 135

  • Workforce Development and Meat Processing Certificate: YBW 134

  • Native Science Field Center: BPL 123

  • Piikani Studies: BPL 122

  • Medicine Spring Library: Medicine Spring Library

Iitoomsapi Iinii tours will also be available. Tour groups are limited to 10 participants, and sign-up is required.

Celebrating Our Land-Grant Legacy

For 32 years, Blackfeet Community College's Land-Grant programs have supported education, community engagement, and opportunities connected to the needs and knowledge of the Blackfeet Nation. The anniversary celebration provides an opportunity to recognize this history while learning about the people, partnerships, and programs continuing this work today.

Through presentations, program showcases, traditional knowledge sharing, and community gathering, Iitoomsapi – First Charging Out brings together the many ways BFCC's Land-Grant programs contribute to learning and community well-being.

Event Details

  • Event: Iitoomsapi – First Charging Out, 32nd Land Grant Anniversary Celebration

  • Date: Wednesday, October 21, 2026

  • Time: 10 a.m.–3 p.m.

  • Location: BFCC Student Commons and program stations across campus

Blackfeet Community College invites students, staff, and community members to join the celebration and recognize 32 years as a Land-Grant College. Everyone is welcome.