CLASS DESCRIPTION
Class duration
1 hour, 20 seconds (1:00:20)
Estimated CEU credit
A common CEU convention is 0.1 CEU per contact hour (≈ 60 minutes of instruction). At ~60 minutes, this session is approximately 0.1 CEU (about 1.0 contact hour).
Final CEU value is ultimately determined by the student’s accrediting organization and how they define “contact hour” and allowable instructional time.
Class description (for CEU submission)
This online PRB+ University session explores practical, field-tested approaches for building respectful, productive relationships with Tribal Nations connected to state parks and historic sites. Drawing on real case examples from work in Oklahoma and Wyoming, participants will learn how interpretive and operations staff can collaborate with Tribal cultural experts to improve storytelling, visitor messaging, and program offerings—while honoring sacred places, traditional practices, and community protocols.
The presenters discuss lessons learned from partnering with Tribal offices and cultural centers, updating interpretive signs and language, co-creating visitor materials (including culturally informed “respect” guidance), and integrating Native voices into existing park events and programming (rather than creating separate “one-off” efforts). Emphasis is placed on relationship-building, obtaining appropriate review and approval, navigating timelines and differing perspectives, and using tools such as memoranda of understanding (MOUs) to clarify how agencies and Tribes will work together over time.
Five learning objectives
By the end of this session, participants will be able to:
- Identify common Tribal partners and points of contact (e.g., cultural centers and Tribal preservation/cultural offices) and explain why official channels matter for representation and approvals.
- Apply relationship-building practices that support trust and long-term collaboration, including respectful outreach, follow-through, and responsiveness to concerns.
- Evaluate park interpretation and visitor messaging for problematic framing or outdated language and describe an appropriate process to correct it.
- Describe how to co-develop visitor-facing products (e.g., brochures and signs) that respect traditional practices (such as offerings, plant gathering, and sacred sites) while aligning with park stewardship messages.
- Explain how tools like an MOU can help define shared expectations, project types, and communication practices between state parks and Tribal Nations.
ABOUT THE PRESENTERS
Angelina Stancampiano serves as District Interpretive Ranger for the Shoshone District in Wyoming State Parks with extensive experience developing partnerships with tribal nations including the Northern Arapaho and Eastern Shoshone Tribes on the Wind River Reservation. She has successfully integrated tribal perspectives into interpretive programs, collaborated on cultural site preservation, and facilitated meaningful dialogue between park staff and tribal communities. Angelina's work emphasizes respectful consultation and authentic storytelling that honors Indigenous voices.
Kyle Bernis, CPRE, brings over 20 years of progressive state park experience, including seven years as District Manager in Wyoming State Parks where he developed collaborative relationships with the Northern Arapaho and Eastern Shoshone Tribes as well as with the Southern Cheyenne Tribe in Oklahoma. As a Certified Parks and Recreation Executive, Kyle has led cultural resource initiatives, traditional ecological knowledge projects, and co-interpretive programming. He currently serves as Assistant Director of Kansas State Parks.