WSU Spokane

OLD WAYS

Summer Learning Opportunity
Native American Health SciencesPathway ProgramsOLD WAYS

Indigenous Health Learning Opportunity

OLD WAYS is a summer program for first and second-year WSU medical, nursing, and pharmaceutical students designed to build their practice with Indigenous and Traditional Knowledge and increase their understanding of the history of American Indian/Alaska Native people.

In OLD WAYS, you will have an opportunity to gain an understanding of Western medicine and Traditional Knowledge parallels, historical and generational trauma, cultural humility, and Indigenous concepts in the healthcare field. OLD WAYS also includes:

  • Travel/lodging support for students in need
  • Stipends for students (upon completion)
  • Certificate (upon completion)

Contact

Jerry Crowshoe at gerald.crowshoe@wsu.edu or 509-368-6844.

Registration Details

  • Registration for this program is free.
  • Students must be able to fully attend all portions of the program.
  • Fifteen spots are available for WSU students on a first-come, first-served basis.

Registration for Summer 2026 is now closed.

I am extremely grateful for this opportunity that the OLD WAYS program provided students. Through this, I gained a deeper understanding of Indigenous traditions, culture, and values that we, as healthcare providers, can implement in their care to foster more holistic approaches. This experience has enriched my perspective, enabling me to contribute more meaningfully to the well-being of Indigenous communities.

OLD WAYS Program Participant
Old ways program members at the Spokane Triabl Longhouse

2026 Class Schedule

Virtual Classes (Zoom)

Ethical Space of Respect
(Part 1)

  • Day: Tuesday, July 7, 2026
  • Time: 4:00 PM – 6:00 PM (PDT)
  • Speaker: Dr. Reggie Crow Shoe

Ethical Space of Respect
(Part 2)

  • Day: Thursday, July 9, 2026
  • Time: 4:00 PM – 6:00 PM (PDT)
  • Speaker: Dr. Reggie Crow Shoe

Cultural Safety

  • Day: Tuesday, July 14, 2026
  • Time: 4:00 PM – 6:00 PM (PDT)
  • Speaker: Heather Crowshoe

Cultural Safety (Part 2)

  • Day: Thursday, July 16, 2026
  • Time: 4:00 PM – 6:00 PM (PDT)
  • Speaker: Heather Crowshoe

Cultural Humility
(Part 1)

  • Day: Tuesday, July 21, 2026
  • Time: 4:00 PM – 6:00 PM (PDT)
  • Speaker: Dr. Iris PrettyPaint

Cultural Humility
(Part 2)

  • Day: Thursday, July 23, 2026
  • Time: 4:00 PM – 6:00 PM (PDT)
  • Speaker: Dr. Iris PrettyPaint

In-Person Classes (WSU Spokane)

History of the Spokane Tribe of Indians

  • Day: Tuesday, July 28, 2026
  • Time: 8:30 AM – 12:00 PM (PDT)
  • Speaker: Warren Seyler

Fort Spokane Tour and Presentation

  • Day: Tuesday, July 28, 2026
  • Time: 1:45 PM – 4:00 PM (PDT)
  • Speaker: Warren Seyler

Cycles of Life, Circles of Meaning  

  • Day: Wednesday, July 29, 2026
  • Time: 8:30 AM – 12:00 PM (PDT)
  • Speaker: Alan Basham

Traditional Plants and Medicines

  • Day: Wednesday, July 29, 2026
  • Time: 1:45 PM – 5:00 PM (PDT)
  • Speaker: Annette Peone