Tucson Standard

Founded in 2023, the University of Arizona's 7 Generations American Indian and Alaska Native Behavioral Health Center of Excellence aims to integrate Indigenous knowledge with modern behavioral health practices. The center, also known as the 7 Generations CoE, seeks to support Native American and Alaska Native communities nationwide by providing culturally responsive training, technical assistance, and policy expertise.

"The 7 Generations CoE serves as a resource to behavioral health care providers, community-based and faith-based organizations, research institutions and federal entities," stated Teshia Solomon, co-principal investigator at the center. She emphasized that their role is not to deliver direct care but to support those who do by facilitating workforce development and informing policy.

The initiative was launched with a $7.5 million grant from the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration. It is co-directed by the university's American Indian Research Center for Health in collaboration with other departments within the College of Medicine – Tucson and the Southwest Institute for Research on Women.

Claudia Powell, principal investigator at 7 Generations CoE, highlighted that "the program is truly led by its national steering council," which consists of 18 tribal leaders who balance Indigenous healing approaches with western models. The council drafts strategies needed to achieve the center's goals.

"In our first year, the national steering council held several meetings," Solomon mentioned. They also established a Healer's Circle composed of members from various tribal nations to provide cultural insights into center activities.

Brenda Granillo directs leadership academy efforts while Courtney Waters leads training programs at the Southwest Institute for Research on Women. The first cohort from their leadership academy is expected to graduate in May 2026 after completing an 18-month mentorship-supported program.

The training program will feature online courses, multimedia spotlights on successful initiatives, a network of professionals nationwide, and opportunities for workforce development aimed at both Native and non-Native professionals serving these communities.

"A culturally responsive training...offers an expansive definition of behavioral health...where Indigenous knowledge...is centered," said Waters. This approach recognizes existing solutions within AIAN communities themselves.