Abenaki culture bearer, master artist, educator and activist Vera Longtoe Sheehan serves her community as director of the Vermont Abenaki Artists Association, a multi-arts services organization. Her BA in Museum Studies and Native American Studies and MA in Heritage Preservation from SUNY Empire State allows her to bridge the gap between the Abenaki community and the mainstream world in creating museum exhibitions, educational programs, and events that promote the vibrant culture of her people and she provides consulting services to museums.
Her extensive research of archaeology and other primary resources relating to Abenaki textiles and clothing in Wabanaki territory informs her textile-making process. Currently, Vera serves as a member of the Vermont Coalition for Ethnic Studies and Social Equity in Schools and the founder of the Abenaki Arts & Education Center Open Education Resource (OER). Vera was awarded the Dean’s Medal (2020) and the Foner Fellowship in Work, Culture, and Social Change (2017 and 2018) for her social justice and decolonization work.
