In celebration of Native American Heritage Month, the MSU Museum in collaboration with the MSU Native American Institute and the Nokomis Cultural Heritage Center will present a two-day program honoring the cultural and spiritual significance of Native American drumming.
The series begins with Echoes of the Earth: Native American Drumming Traditions, a conversation with Daniel Jackson, moderated by Dr. Kevin Leonard, at WKAR Studios (Room 145, Communication Arts & Sciences Building) on Wednesday, November 19, 2025, from 5:00–7:00 PM.
Jackson, whose spirit name is Nimkee and who is Bear Clan, is a proud member of the Saginaw Chippewa Indian Tribe of Michigan. A lifelong resident of Mount Pleasant, Jackson has dedicated more than 25 years to cultural education and community work with the tribe. He currently serves at the 7th Generation Elijah Elk Cultural Center, where he leads programs on language, traditional arts, and community drumming. Having begun learning about the Deweigan (drum) at age ten, Jackson has spent decades traveling across North America sharing songs and teachings with other tribal nations.
“For me, the drum is more than an instrument it’s a living heartbeat that connects us to each other and to creation,” shared Jackson. “It’s an honor to share these teachings and stories that have guided my life and community.”
The conversation will be moderated by Dr. Kevin P. Leonard (Waabshka Mai’ingan, or White Wolf), Director of the MSU Native American Institute within the Office of University Outreach and Engagement. A member of the Sault Ste. Marie Tribe of Chippewa Indians and the Migizi Doodem (Eagle Clan), Leonard has spent over two decades advancing equity, inclusion, and Native student success across Michigan State University. Before leading the Institute, he held key roles in the College of Veterinary Medicine and the Broad College of Business and continues to serve on the Native American Advisory Council for the Michigan Diversity Council.
“Drumming is one of our oldest forms of communication it carries our stories, prayers, and connections to the earth,” said Leonard. “Through this program, we invite the campus and community to experience the rhythms, teachings, and relationships that continue to sustain Native peoples today.”
The program continues on Saturday, November 22, 2025, with a Hand Drum Building Workshop led by Lee Smith, a cultural educator and craftsman affiliated with the Nokomis Cultural Heritage Center in Okemos. Smith’s workshops focus on cultural revitalization through hands-on learning, inviting participants to explore the deep significance of traditional hand drum making.
Two sessions are available: 8:00 AM–12:00 PM and 1:00–5:00 PM, with limited space and advance registration required.
“The MSU Museum is honored to present this program in collaboration with our campus and community partners,” said Devon Akmon, Director of the MSU Museum. “Together, we celebrate living cultural traditions and create space for dialogue, creativity, and learning.”
The MSU Museum and the MSU Native American Institute invite the public to continue their exploration of Native drumming traditions or begin a new creative journey through this unique two-day experience honoring Indigenous artistry, community, and connection.