On March 7, 2025 UC Davis’ Grand Challenges Reimagining the Land-grant University, UC Berkeley Native American Thriving Initiative, and the Joseph A. Myers Center for Research on Native American Issues hosted this event that held a keynote address, panel presentations, and meaningful dialogue regarding the University of California’s role as a land-grant university and its relationship with and responsibilities to Native Nations and individuals.
Keynote Speakers

TRISTAN AHTONE
Journalist & Co-Author of Land-Grab Universities
UC Davis Grand Challenges
ROBERT LEE
Associate Professor of History, University of Cambridge; Co-Author of Land-Grab Universities
UC Davis Grand Challenges
KAREN BIESTMAN
Assistant Vice Chancellor for Student Equity and Inclusion, UC San Diego
UC Davis Grand Challenges
GREG SARRIS
University of California Regent and Chairman of the Federated Indians of Graton Rancheria
UC Davis Grand ChallengesSymposium Recordings
- The University of California Land Grab: Accounting for the Past and Actions Towards Justice (Part 1)
– Welcome by Campus Leaders
– UC Land Grant History by Phenocia Bauerle
– Land Grab Universities: Past, Present and Future Keynote Address by Tristan Ahtone and Robert Lee
- The University of California Land Grab: Accounting for the Past and Actions Towards Justice (Part 2)
– Introduction by Campus Leaders
– Keynote Address by U.C. Regent and Chairman Greg Sarris
– Indigenous Peacemaking as Conflict Resolution by Karen Biestman
– Breakout Groups Facilitated by Merri Lopez-Keifer




