Mole Lake Leaders Collaborate for a Brighter Future
MOLE LAKE RESERVATION, Wis. — Last week, the Sokaogon Chippewa Tribe brought together local and international leaders to brainstorm solutions for improving life in rural Wisconsin.
The Tribe hosted representatives from fields like education, healthcare, and technology to discuss ways to enhance social conditions in the region. Notable participants included Microsoft, UW Health, GE Healthcare, and Nicolet College. Chairman Robert VanZile, Jr. expressed the Tribe’s main aim: “To improve the health, wealth, and wellbeing of our people, paving the way for a stronger future for rural Wisconsin.”
Currently, Forest County ranks as the fifth poorest county in Wisconsin, with ten percent of families living below the poverty line. Reports from the University of Wisconsin indicate that the area suffers from lower life expectancy and higher child poverty rates compared to state averages.
“We see these challenges as opportunities for teamwork and new ideas,” stated VanZile, Jr. Earlier this year, the Tribe secured a significant federal grant for broadband access, totaling $72 million when combined with their contributions, to support this collaboration.
Kurt Zimmerman, Senior Director of the UW-Madison Office of Biohealth Industry Partnerships, highlighted the importance of improving healthcare access and research. He mentioned that the initial programs at the Tribe’s public clinic will focus on early medical screenings, aiming to detect diseases like diabetes sooner for more effective treatment.
Much of the project’s budget will support expanding telehealth services, allowing local hospitals to connect patients with specialists.
Additionally, Mac Quig, Director of Cloud and AI Platforms for tribes at Microsoft, shared plans to establish a language preservation and education program. He emphasized the importance of the Chippewa language to their identity and the need for innovative solutions to preserve it.
Kate Ferrel, President of Nicolet College, announced an upcoming broadband technician program set to start this fall. This initiative aims to train workers to install more than 900 miles of fiber optics in Forest and Florence Counties, which she believes will bring transformative changes for generations.
The Sokaogon Tribe aims to extend high-speed internet access to over 4,600 homes and businesses, both tribal and non-tribal. Chairman VanZile, Jr. noted that the gathering exemplifies the Tribe’s dedication to its culture and future.
“We are fostering relationships that will lead to better healthcare outcomes, improved career opportunities, and greater economic growth for both tribal and non-tribal communities,” he said.
