by University Communications
October 6th 2023
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Portland State University is pleased to announce the hiring of Modesta Minthorn, PSU’s first Executive Director of Tribal Relations.
As PSU’s Tribal Liaison, Minthorn will work with President Ann Cudd and departments across campus to not only maximize opportunities to engage with regional Tribes, but also to better support the university’s Indigenous students.
“I am honored to be chosen for this position,” Minthorn said. “I am excited to begin this new journey at Portland State University and begin building a strong foundation between Tribes, Tribal communities and PSU.”
Minthorn has an M.A. in Linguistics, Phonology and Sahaptian Languages from the University of Oregon, where she also earned a B.S. in Political Science, State and Local Government. She is the daughter of Antone Minthorn and Zelma Greene Minthorn, and the granddaughter of William Minthorn, Mami Patawa, and Joseph Greene and Cecelia Raymond. Minthorn is an enrolled member of the Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation and a descendant of the Wallowa Band of Nez Perces. She previously served as Director of Education for the Confederated Tribes of Umatilla.
“I am proud of the progress we have made as a university community toward fulfilling our responsibility to build authentic relationships with our Indigenous community members and support the thriving of Native students,” said PSU President Ann Cudd. “But I also know there is more to be done and we all have much to learn from our Tribal neighbors. My hope is that this new position helps PSU continue on this path in celebrating and supporting our Indigenous community.”
In this new position, Minthorn will build relationships with tribal nations, communities and peoples in Oregon, the Pacific Northwest and beyond. Minthorn will also work closely with campus leaders and groups focused on Native American and Indigenous communities, including the Indigenous Nations Studies Department; the Institute for Tribal Government; the staff of the Native American Student and Community Center; and the Center for Internships, Mentorship & Research.
Minthorn will join PSU in November.