Background and areas of interest?

My interdisciplinary research and teaching focus on Native American and Indigenous studies, United States, and international relations history in the twentieth century to the present, with an emphasis on sovereignty, self-determination, cultural heritage, global Indigenous rights, activism, and legal issues.

What brought you to the University of Oregon?

I’m originally from Eugene and after spending many years working on the East coast I wanted to come back to the Pacific Northwest to be close to home and family. I also previously worked in the archives and museum field and wanted to transition to a research and teaching position.

How did you get involved in your field?

I’ve always loved history and political science and knew I wanted to be involved in research, teaching, and service work in some way. I was very lucky to have had amazing history teachers in high school and college who inspired me to continue in the field. I’ve been able to work at some incredible jobs as a historian and archivist in Washington DC before coming back to Eugene and I value the different opportunities and paths my career has taken over the years. I love studying history because it is a way we can immerse ourselves in another time and try to understand what it must have been like for people during that period and how we can make the world better today for future generations.

What’s the best advice you have for a college student?

Be open to all the possibilities on campus, whether with classes, clubs or exploring the city. It’s such an amazing time to experience all that college life has to offer.

How can students contact you?

I can be reached via email (joneal@uoregon.edu). I will be holding regular weekly drop-in office hours in Unthank Hall 264. I look forward to connecting with you!