My Anishinaabe name is Nodaway Benaise, and I am Sturgeon Clan. I am enrolled in the Oneida Tribe of Wisconsin, and my ancestry includes Menominee, Mille Lacs Ojibwe, Stockbridge-Munsee, French, and English. I have been involved in public education programming for over 40 years. My journey has spanned from my time as a student at Marquette University to serving as an adjunct lecturer at UW-Milwaukee. I previously served as Director of Southeast Oneida Tribal Services and have extensive past service with the Indian Community School in Milwaukee, where I contributed in several capacities, including Former Executive Director, Past Chairman of the Board, and Former Board Member. More recently, I was honored to be named a 'River Hero' by the Milwaukee Riverkeeper organization—a recognition of my dedication to our region's vital waterways. I am also a Sturgeon Protector, lacrosse coach, and proud father.

To learn more about me and my work, you can click on these links: Mark Denning Cultural Speaker & Educator and Sturgeon Protectors.