Lee Palma (Comanche), a Studio Arts major at Institute of American Indian Arts in Santa Fe, New Mexico, took part in the Artist Leadership Program of the National Museum of the American intending to focus on southeastern jewelry and metalwork in the museum's collections. A conversation with a museum historian inspired her to begin to reconstruct her family's lost history, as well—a much harder challenge. The NMAI and the IAIA together have developed this opportunity for IAIA students within the museum's larger Artist Leadership Program. Selection for the program is coordinated with the IAIA and is based on students’ proposed research, public art projects, academic presentations, digital portfolios, resumes, artist statements, and letters of support from IAIA faculty. Participating students receive credit for independent study. Video production: Mats Reiniusson Academic dean, IAIA: Charlene Teters