Learn About SOIC
Our Mission
SOIC champions Native culture through events, education, and community gatherings that preserve tradition and foster intergenerational learning. We create nurturing spaces for Indigenous knowledge, identity, and community bonds to flourish.
Cultural & Community Events
Join SOIC's cultural gatherings, including Powwows and honoring veterans, fostering healing, expression, and tradition within our Native community.
Youth & Family Engagement
Empowering youth through culturally rich programs like the Multicultural Kids Camp, nurturing Indigenous values and community pride.
Cultural Education & Legacy
Accessible gatherings for storytelling, learning, and sharing resources that strengthen cultural bonds and community wellness.
Youth Justice & Support
Partnering with OYA, we offer culturally grounded programs for youth, promoting healing, identity, and positive growth.
Community Gatherings
Regular community gatherings throughout Southern Oregon to connect, share, and honor our cultural heritage.
Our Team
Nick Hall - Executive Director
Nick Hall is Comanche and Pacific Islander, born in Oklahoma and raised in Texas. As Founder and Executive Director of the Southern Oregon Indian Center, he has devoted his leadership to strengthening Native families, preserving cultural traditions, and fostering connection within the Southern Oregon community.
With steady, servant-hearted leadership, Nick remains committed to carrying culture forward and ensuring future generations have a strong foundation of identity, unity, and belonging.
Terese Hall - Board Member
Therese Hall is of Apache and Mexican descent and has supported the Southern Oregon Indian Center since 1997. She has served as both a board member and past secretary, contributing years of dedication to the organization and its mission.
She helps with powwow operations and enjoys sharing First Nations culture through regalia, beadwork, and community events.
Echo Miller - Vice President
Connie Saldana - Treasurer
Connie Saldana serves as Treasurer for SOIC and supports a variety of community efforts behind the scenes. She is actively involved with Multicultural Kids Camp and assists with the raffle booth at the Veterans Powwow.
She is excited to see SOIC bringing back memberships and looks forward to welcoming more community members to join and participate.
Don Senter-President
Don Senter has been involved with the Multicultural Association of Southern Oregon (MCASO) since 1995 and serves as Director of the Multicultural Kids Camp. Through this work, MCASO has partnered with the Southern Oregon Indian Center (SOIC) to support cultural events and promote Native and multicultural communities.
He has lived in Oregon for over 30 years and continues to serve on several boards, contributing his leadership and commitment to community connection and cultural awareness.
Sandi Wunische - Secretary
Sandi Wunische serves as the SOIC Secretary and has dedicated over 40 years to working with intellectually and developmentally delayed adults and children. Her lifelong commitment reflects a deep passion for helping others and strengthening her community.
She is a proud mother of three daughters and grandmother to seven grandchildren. Sandi enjoys spending time outdoors, especially appreciating wildlife and fishing.
Jim Prevatt - Board Member
A proud member of the Shasta Nation, he is a Vietnam War veteran who served two tours from 1964–1965 and 1966–1970. During his second tour, he was held as a prisoner of war. He served in the U.S. Army Special Forces as a Green Beret, trained in communications and as a medic.
Today, he is a respected elder in the community, known for his wisdom and connection to tradition. He enjoys attending social gatherings and powwows, helping carry forward cultural heritage for future generations.
Abigail Özkan - Board Member
Active Member
