Kelly Hall

Kelly Hall, a language specialist with her Samish tribe, participated in the Power Paddle to Puyallup, the annual tribal canoe journey that has grown from few canoes to more than 100 this year. While studying a class on myths, rituals, and symbols with her mentor — Suzanne Crawford O’Brien, professor of religion and culture at PLU — she embraced her culture more than ever before. She is the first Samish member to get college credit for studying her own language and has made a lifelong commitment to continuing cultural exchanges with other indigenous groups.

Learn more about her visit.