The National Congress of American Indians (NCAI) Policy Research Center is currently inviting researchers, practitioners, tribal members, and organizations conducting research in areas that have or could have real impacts for tribal communities to submit a proposal to make a presentation at the 5th Annual Tribal Leader/Scholar Forum on Tuesday, June 22, 2010 at the NCAI Mid-Year Session in Rapid City, South Dakota.

The NCAI Policy Research Center welcomes proposals from all scholars (both Native and non-Native), academic institutions, and organizations. However, proposals from tribal colleges, Native graduate students, and tribal communities are especially encouraged. In addition, those proposals that include student presenters or youth, tribal leaders and citizens, and feature collaborative partnerships are preferred. Both completed and on-going research (with preliminary findings) will be considered.

Research from all disciplines and fields are encouraged, but this year preference will be given to research proposals that address law enforcement/public safety, health care reform, natural resources and energy development, and strategies for strengthening tribal governance.

The Tribal Leader/Scholar Forum provides an opportunity for eight selected researchers to share their work with tribal leaders, policymakers, and tribal citizens during NCAI’s Mid-Year Session.  The purpose of the Forum is to offer a space for dialogue between tribal representatives and researchers regarding their work.  Tribal policymakers offer feedback to researchers about the implications, impact, and potential next steps of their work.  During the presentations and discussion, emphasis should be place on practical, real-life implications of the research.

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