In 1976 a minor course of study in American Indian Studies (AIS) was established that featured courses in:
- Anthropology
- Art History
- Education
- English
- Geography
- History
- Sociology
The response was enthusiastic, and almost immediately discussion turned to the development of an AIS major. The process involved needs and interest assessments, proposals to departmental and campus-wide committees and, finally, proposals to the UW Board of Regents. It was long and arduous process, but in April of 1996 the American Indian Studies Committee at UW-Eau Claire celebrated the establishment of the new major course of study. This program accepted students for the first time in the fall of 1996.
Veda Stone, UW-Eau Claire emeritus faculty, is remembered for her work in the development of this program.
