In this episode of "Behind the Mitten," hosts John Gonzalez and Amy Sherman celebrate a decade of exploring Michigan, focusing on Mount Pleasant and Central Michigan University. They discuss the community's growth, the importance of Indigenous culture, and the upcoming 36th annual Celebrating Life Pow wow. The conversation highlights local attractions, culinary experiences, and the vibrant campus life at CMU, emphasizing the welcoming nature of the community and the diverse opportunities available for visitors and students alike.

Guests include:

Segment 1 - Chris Rowley, Executive Director of the Mt. Pleasant Area Convention and Visitors Bureau and Cassandra Chippeway, Content and Communications Coordinator for the Mt. Pleasant CVB, who talk about the city's relationship to Central Michigan University and Saginaw Chippewa Tribe.

Segment 2 - Kasey Perez, Director for the Office of Indigenous Affairs at Central Michigan University, who joins the podcast to discuss details about the 36th annual Celebrating Life Pow wow March 29 and 30. Perez is a tribal member of the Hannahville Potawatomi Community and former student at CMU.

Segment 3 - Dr. Paula Lancaster, Provost and Executive VP at CMU, who fills us in on academics, enrollment and why this is a great time be a Chippewa. Prior to serving as the university’s lead academic officer, she was Dean of the CMU College of Education and Human Services and a professor of teacher education, and she has more than 20 years of higher education experience. 

Segment 4 - Chris and Cassandra of the Mt. Pleasant CVB, who rejoin the show to talk about the local food scene, as well as the things to do like hiking, tubing and golfing.

Chapters

00:00 - Celebrating a Decade of Michigan Adventures
01:14 - Returning to Mount Pleasant: A Homecoming
02:27 - Exploring Mount Pleasant's Community and Culture
04:51 - Indigenous Heritage and Culinary Delights
09:10 - The Upcoming Celebrating Life Powwow
21:06 - Central Michigan University: A Hub of Learning
25:05 - Transformative Experiences at CMU
33:10 - Mount Pleasant: A Destination for All Seasons

Learn more about Central Michigan University at cmich.edu.

Learn more about Behind the Mitten at amyandgonzo.com.