Jeremy Manyik

Program Director

 

Jeremy’s history with the Koshare Indian Museum began when he was eleven years old. He and his twin brother joined the Koshares as dancers at that time. He advanced through the Boy Scout program and the Koshare Indian Dancer program until he reached the level of Eagle Scout and was elected as Head Chief for two consecutive years. During his tenure as the Head Chief, he introduced girls into the program and changed the by-laws to make the program and regalia more authentic.

Jeremy’s knowledge of Native American culture extends beyond his time as a Koshare dancer. He and his family spent years visiting with Native Americans, attending ceremonies, and working with artists. Jeremy also has a background in fine art and studied with the famed artist Robert Bateman. In the last year, Jeremy has stepped up to assist with improving Museum displays and conducting tours when available.

His background and expertise in Native American culture, art, Boy Scout training, knowledge of Native American dances and regalia have taken the quality of the youth program to a higher level. His meticulous attention to detail brings quality to each performance and each performer’s regalia (costume).

Jeremy’s leadership and management training have served him well. He worked as an instructor at a Boy Scout camp in Texas for four years, served as a manager with Wal-Mart for many years, and has served as the Director of our Youth Program since 2002. He has reinstated education into each trip, bringing about a renewed appreciation of historic sites, national parks and nature, and art and artifacts by including more museums on the trips. In addition, he has added international cultural exchange to the program by participating in the Pan America 16th Annual Grass Roots Summit. The relationships built during this event have continued throughout the year.