Darnell Rides At The Door

Darnell Rides At The Door is a respected Pikunii (Blackfeet) woman, deeply committed to preserving and sharing the rich traditions and knowledge of her people. Apprenticed to the elders who came before her, she continues their legacy with dedication, striving to balance the best of both worlds—honoring the Pikunii worldview while navigating the present. She is a proud mother of five accomplished adults, grandmother to 14, and great-grandmother to two, all of whom uphold the values of stability, heritage, and equity in their daily lives.

As an Ookaan (Medicine Lodge), Thunder, and Beaver Medicine Woman, Darnell holds deep cultural knowledge and responsibilities. She is a Painted Lodge Owner and an active member of many core Pikunii groups, ensuring that the history and traditions of her people remain alive. Her expertise extends beyond ceremony—she is a consultant in education, culture, traditions, Pikunii herbology, and ethnobotany. Additionally, she is a licensed and certified massage therapist, Reiki Master Teacher, and cultural educator, embodying a holistic approach to healing and wellness.

Darnell and her husband, Smokey, reside west of Kipp’s Lake, near the historic Spring Hill Campsite, where their ancestors once traveled. Together, they operate a consulting business, offering guidance on Blackfeet culture, traditions, and history. Most recently, they contributed to the production of the book People Before the Park, furthering their efforts to educate and preserve the Pikunii way of life for future generations.

 

Sunday, March 9th

Travel day

Lodging at Petro Hall, check-in after 6pm

Monday, March 10th    

  • 10:00 AM: NAAC Office Hours & Campus tour
  • 10:30 AM: Dr. Felese Class Presentation
  • 11:50 AM: Walk to the Cafeteria for Lunch
  • 1:00 PM: NAAC Office Hours
  • 3:00 PM: Campus Presentation: People Before the Park: Understanding Blackfeet History & Land Stewardship
  • 6:00 PM: Dinner with All Nations, AI Dorm Students, & AIBL Club

Tuesday, March 11th  

  • 11:00 AM: NAAC Office Hours
  • 11:50 AM: Walk to the Cafeteria for Lunch
  • Break
  • 2PM-4PM: Visit with Big Sky Documentary

Wednesday, March 12th  

  • 11:00 AM: NAAC Office Hours
  • 11:45 AM: Walk to the Cafeteria for Lunch
  • Break
  • 2PM: Sacred Plants & Traditional Knowledge: Pikunii Herbology and Ethnobotany in Practice at the Native American Achievement Center
  • 6:00 PM: Dinner with All Nations & AI Dorm Students

Thursday, March 13th  

  • 9AM: City College, Nursing Program Presentation with Kelly Shumway in room 133.
  • 10:30 AM: Talking Circle at City College, NAAC Office (open to all)
  • 11:45 AM: Main Campus Lunch
  • Break
  • 2:00–4:00 PM: NAAC Office Hours

Friday, March 14th

  • 10:30–11:30 AM: Feedback Discussion (open to all)
  • 11:30 AM–1:00 PM: Lunch at NAAC, Gift Presentations from students and faculty (open to all)
  • 1:00 PM: Travel