Nursing's Barb Anderson receives North Dakota Indian Education award Barb Anderson, assistant program coordinator of the Recruitment and Retention of American Indians into Nursing (RAIN) program at the UND College of Nursing, was recently recognized for her dedication to American Indian programs. Anderson received the 2009 Community Service Award from the North Dakota Indian Education Association (NDIEA). The honor recognizes her many years of community service to tribal youth via the UND Indians into Medicine (INMED) Summer Institute. Anderson administered the INMED Summer Institute Program for 14 years prior to her current role at the College of Nursing. The INMED Summer Institute brings a large group of 90 or so American Indian high school students from a wide variety of tribes who are interested in pursuing health-related careers to the UND campus for academic enrichment activities. “Overseeing the activities and well-being of that many high school students for so many years is worthy of recognition,” said Leigh Jeanotte, Anderson’s nominator. “That Barb did it so very well speaks volumes about her character and commitment to the American Indian youth of the communities.” “This recognition is so well deserved. How many people do you know willing to give up their summers for all those years to work with students 24/7?” said Deb Wilson, coordinator of the RAIN Program. “The impact is seen when the RAIN Program is out recruiting locally, regionally, and nationally,” Wilson said. “So many individuals in healthcare and education we meet know Barb because she had worked with them when they were in junior high or high school. Anderson has much to be proud of. Indian country can be very proud of the continued impact Barb has with American Indian people.” NDIEA annually recognizes outstanding individuals who have demonstrated exemplary support to American Indian students (K-12 and college). The award is based on the following: integrity, dedication, commitment, work experience, and impact or influence on the education of American Indian students. Ten awards are made annually by NDIEA.