The Center for American Indian Research and Studies (CAIRS) facilitates partnerships between the faculty of Southern Miss and regional tribal governments in order to better serve the needs of the American Indian people in our area. CAIRS collaborations involve education, research, service provisions, and cultural exchanges that enhance the cultural diversity of our university and provide much needed opportunities for joint ventures between the university community and members of American Indian tribes within our area. Projects from CAIRS, developed in partnership with the tribes in this area, are designed so that they enhance the quality of life of Indian people and further the mission of this university by providing quality education, economic opportunities, opportunities for research on environmental, cultural, health, and education topics that are relevant in American Indian Country and are respectful of the diversity and rich culture of American Indians. In these ways, and many others, the Center for American Indian Research and Studies demonstrate to the American Indian community that Southern Miss is interested in participating in the next era of American Indian history.