MCA, SLC, & SUNY Potsdam Embark in Unique Cross-Border Agreement– “The MCA is proud to partner with SLC and SUNY Potsdam in order to provide more opportunities for members to further pursue their post-secondary education.”

Akwesasne Mohawk Nation- August 30^th, 2016, the Mohawk Council of Akwesasne issued a press release informing the community of a unique partnership and cross-border agreement with the State University of New York at Potsdam and Iohahi:io Adult Education. The student must first obtain their General Arts & Sciences Diploma at Iohahi:io in Akwesasne, a program guided by St. Lawrence College, and will have the opportunity to transfer to SUNY Potsdam as a Junior to continue on for a Bachelor of Arts in Archeological Studies.  This partnership will facilitate the successful transfer for eligible Mohawk students attending Iohahi:io, who’re interested in obtaining a Bachelor of Arts in Archeological Studies.

Mohawk Council Grand Chief Abram Benedict indicated that there is a need for archeological specialists in the region, as this is an interdisciplinary and in-demand career opportunity.  The St. Lawrence Seaway Valley holds centuries of buried history, and is an opportune region for archeological studies.

Grand Chief Benedict stated, “The unique, cross-border agreement between Iohahi:io, St. Lawrence College, and SUNY Potsdam is an exciting initiative that will benefit the community of Akwesasne.  The MCA is proud to partner with SLC and SUNY Potsdam in order to provide more opportunities for members to further pursue their post-secondary education.  We are so pleased that this partnership has become a reality and we hope that similar partnerships like this will be made in the future to further the education and skill-set of community members.  This will give those students the opportunity to gain experience and leadership skills from the talented and knowledgeable teachers at Iohahi:io to prepare them for post-secondary education at a larger University.”

President and CEO of St. Lawrence College stated, “This agreement will provide a seamless transfer opportunity, [and] we are pleased to be able to offer this with our partners at the Mohawk Council of Akwesasne and SUNY Potsdam, it is truly a unique dual credential offering that goes across borders.”

With this partnership students will be prepared to become leaders in the field of archeology through SUNY Potsdam’s unique program, which regularly conducts field work in this region that’s rich in indigenous history. SUNY Potsdam President, Kristin Esterberg stated, “SUNY Potsdam is proud to partner with the Mohawk Council of Akwesasne and St. Lawrence College on this exciting initiative.”

This agreement is a milestone partnership between these organizations that will enhance the education of Mohawk students within Akwesasne.  Good Luck to all students in the 2016 – 2017 School year, and to those in consideration of this unique opportunity.

BY: Ohseraseia:hawi