Angela Gonzales

My public work and community engagement are grounded in long-standing, reciprocal relationships with Indigenous communities and organizations and reflect ASU’s commitment to being socially embedded and responsive to community needs. I approach public scholarship as a collaborative and accountable practice, focused on translating research into action, policy, and community-defined outcomes.

As Director of American Indian Studies, my public engagement centers on strengthening partnerships with tribal nations, Indigenous community organizations, and campus units to expand access to Indigenous Studies, support student pathways, and align academic programs with community and workforce priorities. This work emphasizes institution-building and systems change, including the development of Indigenous-centered microcertificate programs, community-engaged curricula, and sustainable academic pathways that generate public value beyond individual projects.

In my role as Interim Director of the Center for Indian Education, I work closely with Indigenous educators, schools, and education leaders to advance Indigenous education research, leadership development, and culturally grounded teaching and learning. Through CIE, I support applied research, grant development, and partnerships that connect ASU’s resources to Indigenous education priorities across diverse contexts.

Beyond the university, I am deeply engaged in Indigenous nonprofit and community leadership. I currently serve as President of the Board of the Colorado Plateau Foundation and have held long-term leadership roles with the Hopi Education Endowment Fund. I also contribute to national public scholarship and professional leadership, including service as President-Elect of the Native American and Indigenous Studies Association. Across these roles, I understand public work as a relational and structural practice—one rooted in reciprocity, responsibility, and a commitment to paying forward opportunities for Indigenous communities and future generations.