Cedric Woods
About Cedric Woods
Cedric Woods serves as the Director of the Institute for New England Native American Studies at UMass Boston, a position he has held since 2009. He has a PhD in Anthropology from the University of Connecticut and has worked to strengthen relationships with regional tribes and organizations to enhance the lives of Native Peoples in the area.
Work at UMass Boston
Cedric Woods has served as the Director of the Institute for New England Native American Studies at UMass Boston since 2009. In this role, he has focused on enhancing the understanding and visibility of Native American issues in New England. Under his leadership, the Institute has engaged in various initiatives aimed at fostering collaboration among regional tribes, Native non-profits, state agencies, and academic institutions. His work emphasizes building capacity and strengthening relationships to improve the quality of life for Native Peoples in the region.
Education and Expertise
Cedric Woods holds a PhD in Anthropology from the University of Connecticut, where he studied from 1997 to 2007. Prior to that, he earned a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, completing his studies from 1987 to 1992. He furthered his education with a Master of Arts in Political Science from the University of Arizona, studying from 1992 to 1995. His academic background provides a strong foundation for his work in Native American studies and community engagement.
Background
Cedric Woods has a diverse educational background that informs his professional focus. He began his studies in Political Science, which he pursued at two prominent universities before transitioning to Anthropology for his doctoral studies. This combination of disciplines supports his understanding of the socio-political dynamics affecting Native American communities. His extensive academic training spans over a decade, equipping him with the knowledge necessary for his current role.
Achievements
Cedric Woods founded the Institute for New England Native American Studies at UMass Boston, establishing a dedicated platform for research and advocacy related to Native American issues in the region. His efforts have included collaboration with various stakeholders, including regional tribes and non-profit organizations, to enhance the lives of Native Peoples. Through these initiatives, he has contributed to the development of programs aimed at addressing the unique challenges faced by these communities.