Bio

Patrick Freeland (Wind Clan of the Muscogee Nation of Oklahoma) serves as the Senior Tribal Climate Resilience Liaison for the Affiliated Tribes of Northwest Indians (ATNI) and the Northwest Climate Adaptation Science Center (NW CASC), where his primary focus is on fostering partnerships and facilitating effective science and resource opportunity communication to address the challenges posed by climate change within Tribal Nations. Central to this work is partnership building based on Honor, Pride and Respect. Along with a stellar team with the ATNI Climate Resilience program, Patrick serves to strengthen connections with ATNI member Tribal Nations, affiliates, NW CASC partners, and key allies.

A first-generation college graduate from Haskell Indian Nations University and Purdue University, Patrick’s journey through creative writing, Indigenous studies, and ecological sciences and engineering, has shaped his multifaceted approach to climate adaptation science and serving Indigenous Nations. Patrick’s interdisciplinary expertise in science, arts and engineering drives his mission to advance human and environmental well-being. Patrick has dedicated nearly two decades to the convergence of climate change adaptation, higher education, and the advancement of Indigenous Peoples, steadfast in his commitment to research ethics, data sovereignty and the healing of intergenerational trauma.

As a liaison, Patrick also engages in research activities aimed at enhancing climate adaptation science services for ATNI member tribes. By participating in panels, committees, and workshops, contributing to manuscripts, and presenting research findings, Patrick serves as a “boundary spanner,” bridging the gap between scientific research and Tribal communities and ensuring that research is conducted ethically and with respect to Tribal sovereignty. Through his multifaceted approach, Patrick Freeland plays a pivotal role in driving forward climate resilience efforts and fostering partnerships that empower Tribal communities’ self-determination to adapt and thrive within the reality of a rapidly changing climate.