Due to the uncertainty and health concerns related to the COVID-19 pandemic, the 2021 Potawatomi Leadership Program (PLP) will be held virtually. Accepted students must commit to at least three virtual evening sessions per week, which will feature cultural teachings from Cultural Heritage Center Director Dr. Kelli Mosteller, panel sessions from tribal leaders and program directors, and talking circles with their fellow PLP students. Students will be expected to complete some reading and writing assignments between sessions. To support cultural growth, students will also receive materials for some traditional art and craft classes. Upon completion of all sessions, students will receive an $1,800 scholarship. Failure to attend sessions will reduce the participant's final scholarship. The program will take place from Sunday, June 13 – Friday, July 23, 2021.
In light of the virtual format, some of the program's eligibility requirements have been expanded for this year only. To be eligible, students must be aged 18-21, demonstrate at least a 3.0 grade point average (GPA), have graduated high school by the program's start date, and be enrolled in college or vocational school at any level.
The online PLP application will open on Monday, February 8 at 8:00 a.m. Central Time and close on Wednesday, March 10 at 5:00 p.m. Central Time. Please direct any questions to the Citizen Potawatomi Nation Department of Education at college@potawatomi.org or 405-695-6028.