Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians partners with George Washington University
Hikers of all abilities took to the trails this morning in support of the Richard Milanovich Legacy Hike.
This year the hike is benefiting the newly created fellowship with George Washington University’s Native American Political Leadership Program.
“He was a great leader and he was a great teacher as well. As far as continuing his leadership, I don’t think anyone will be able to fill those shoes. But I think he’s taught a lot of us to continue in his footsteps and carry out those important qualities that were important to him and in a way he’s still leading us,” said Tribal Council Member Reid Milanovich.
A new partnership with George Washington University is doing just that.
The fellowship program will provide full scholarships for Native American, Alaska Native and Native Hawaiian students who want to spend a semester in Washington, D.C.
“An opportunity for students to come from here to spend time in Washington, doing academic work, internships, professional internships on the hill probably and other places in Washington and get an opportunity to really develop some networks and learn about the people who make a difference in Washington with issues that affect Native Americans,” said program director Greg Lebel.
Carrying on a legacy of great character and courage Milanovich embodied.
“The focus point of this partnership is to help some Native American students who wouldn’t otherwise have an opportunity for higher education to explore these paths,” Milanovich said.
The university is already in the process of reviewing applications.
They said this program will hopefully pick up where Milanovich left off.
“He was someone who really understood how Washington worked and how national politics and policy worked and understanding that makes a huge difference in making things happen,” Lebel said.
A long day in the canyons, ended with a celebration of life and new partnerships.
“It’s very humbling to see all these people to come out and support something that he stood so proudly for,” Milanovich said.
