Norris Center Symposium: The Teachings of Plants

Honoring Our Relatives: The Teachings of Plants

Join the Norris Center for our 12th annual natural history symposium, "Honoring Our Relatives: The Teachings of Plants." Hosted at the historic UC Santa Cruz Hay Barn, this free gathering brings community members together to explore the deep connections between land, plants, and people.The afternoon features a keynote presentation by Sage LaPena, a renowned herbalist, healer, and teacher. Sage is mixed-blood Nomtipom and Nomsus Wintu and a certified Clinical Herbalist trained in both Traditional Native American and Western herbal protocols. Currently the Manager of the Healing Ways Department at the Sacramento Native American Health Center, Sage has spent 40 years teaching about plants, focusing on diabetes management and restoring traditional medicine to Native clinics.In addition to the keynote, attendees will enjoy a panel discussion with local Amah Mutsun tribal stewards, participate in an herbal tea-making workshop, and create their own plant-based artwork.

Student Workshop

University students are invited to arrive early for an environmental career mentoring workshop, which includes a free lunch, held immediately before the symposium from 10:30 AM – 12:30 PM.

FREE ENTRY!