Tuesday, October 19, 2021
Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction American Indian Studies Consultant David O’Connor recently received a prestigious national honor for the outstanding work he does across the state and on the national level.
Last week, O’Connor received the National Indian Education Association’s (NIEA) Educator of the Year award at the organization’s 52nd Annual Convention and Trade Show in Omaha, Nebraska. The theme of this year’s conference was Native Control of Native Education: A Time to Lead. The organization presented the award to O’Connor for his work in changing the landscape for all students, with an emphasis on Native American studies and education, in Wisconsin and across the Midwest.
“This award is a testament to the partnerships and relationships I have developed and built throughout my time at DPI,” O’Connor said. “Although the award has my name on it, it should include all those I work with every single day both here at DPI and in the field. It represents the people of Wisconsin I serve and work with, and the folks every day who are involved in helping move this work forward.”
O’Connor has worked at the DPI for nearly a decade, assisting with the implementation of curriculum at schools across the state in the areas of American Indian histories, cultures, and tribal sovereignty, often referred to as Wisconsin Act 31. His work with schools, libraries and others aims to provide training opportunities, develop and disseminate materials, and provide consultation on issues related to American Indian Studies, and the education of Native American students.
In his award acceptance speech at the conference, O’Connor said, “This award humbles and lifts my spirit up both personally and professionally. But I must truly share this award with all my family, friends, colleagues, my nation (Bad River Band of Lake Superior Chippewa) and communities who have and continue to provide ongoing support. I also want to say miigwech (Ojibwe, meaning thank you) to my nominators, the NIEA selection committee and others involved in my work, your support has led me to receiving this amazing award.”
O’Connor dedicated the award to his two daughters Ava Marie and Ellie Ann, to his late parents Thomas F. O’Connor Sr. and Georgeann K. O’Connor, to his grandparents, sisters, brother, nieces, aunties, uncles, as well as to all his family, friends and colleagues. Lastly, he dedicates this award to those loved ones who are no longer here with us and those yet to come.
Congratulations to David on a much-deserved national award!