When we go to a class and take an interest in the professor’s accomplishments, it makes going to class a lot easier and we gain more respect for the wise owl in front of the room.
At Lewis and Clark College, Robert Miller brings more than just teaching experience to the campus in Portland.
Miller is an enrolled citizen of the Eastern Shawnee Tribe of Oklahoma. He is also the Chief Justice of the Court of Appeals for the Grande Ronde tribe, which follows federal Indian law like all tribes on reservations. In addition, he sits in as a judge for other tribes.
Miller divides his time between the reservation, Lewis and Clark College and traveling to present his research.
Miller teaches Civil Procedure, Federal Indian Law, and Cultural Resources Protection at Lewis and Clark. Furthermore, he is an accomplished author of just under two dozen published writings on American Indian studies, Lewis and Clark’s expedition, economic development of Native Americans, and Manifest Destiny.
Most recently, Robert Miller wrote and published a book entitled Native America, Discovered and Conquered: Thomas Jefferson, Lewis and Clark, and Manifest Destiny.
Although the book has only recently been published, it is already considered to be a breakthrough publication with new research on Manifest Destiny.
His research provides a foundation for understanding laws and actions that created modern legal systems that control American Indians. Miller links the “Doctrine of Discovery,” a document that was used by colonial powers that had laid claim on newly “discovered” lands during the Age of Discovery, with the birth of Manifest Destiny.
“Most professors consider that part of their job is to continue researching and writing throughout their careers. In fact, researching and exploring new facets of your teaching subject enhances and improves one’s classroom teaching. Most academics no doubt became teachers because they are curious and interested in their chosen fields so they want to continue that exploration,” Miller said.
Barbara Weatherall, a COCC student and member of the Grand Ronde Tribe will be introducing Miller.
Since his book was released, he has had even more on his plate with colleges around the northwest fighting for his presence and presentations.
On January 21, 2010, Professor Miller is is scheduled to speak in Willie Hall, in the Campus Center Building. The presentation is from 4pm until 6pm.
During the Season of Non-Violence, students are encouraged to take in this timely and important discussion from this well-respected professor, author and citizen.