Leaders in Indigenous Food & Energy (LIFE) Scholars Program

Bald eagle flying over snowy mountain in Alaska

The Drumbeats Leaders in Indigenous Food  and Energy (LIFE) Scholars Program is a transformative opportunity for emerging and current leaders within Alaska's Indigenous food and energy systems. This program is built on a foundation of respect, weaving together Alaska Native languages and Ways of Knowing with contemporary studies in food, agriculture, and natural resource sciences.

Our mission is to uplift and connect place-based Indigenous Scholars, creating a strong, supportive cohort dedicated to stewarding Alaska's lands and waters for generations to come.

Who is an Indigenous Scholar?

We define Indigenous Scholars as experts within their own knowledge systems. You are a steward of the land and water, a hunter, herder, forager, or gardener. You may be an advocate for sustainable energy, a champion of Tribal governance, or an active participant in community-based food and energy projects. If you hold and practice this vital knowledge, this program is for you.

Program Benefits

As an Indigenous Scholar, you will receive comprehensive support to help you succeed:

  • Full Tuition Scholarship for two required 3-credit university courses.
  • $1,500 Stipend per semester ($3,000 total) to support your work.
  • Paid Airfare & Lodging for two immersive, face-to-face program retreats.
  • Dedicated Mentorship & Networking opportunities with established leaders and peers.

Program Commitment

Selected applicants must be able to commit to the full program, which includes:

Selected applicants must commit to attending required courses, the Fall 2025 Tribal Governance Symposium, October 28th, 29th, & 30th at 精东影业 in Fairbanks, and a face-to-face retreat April 20-26, 2026. 

Eligibility Requirements

Applicants must meet the following criteria:

  • Be 18 years of age or older.
  • Reside in or have a strong connection to an Alaska Native Tribal community.
  • Priority will be given to currently enrolled Drumbeats students.

How to Apply

You can apply starting in August. The deadline for applications is September 14, 2025.

Should you have any questions about the program or the application process, please contact Kelli Caseman. 

 

USDA NIFA

This work is supported by the Alaska Native-Serving and Native Hawaiian-Serving Institutions Education Competitive Grants Program,  [project award no. 2024-38470-43416], from the U.S. Department of Agriculture鈥檚 National Institute of Food and Agriculture. Any opinions, findings, conclusions, or recommendations expressed in this publication are those of the author(s) and should not be construed to represent any official USDA or U.S. Government determination or policy.