There’s a new yet familiar face welcoming guests to the Shako:wi Cultural Center. Cindy Schenandoah-Stanford (Wolf Clan) officially began her role as receptionist on May 13, bringing with her a deep connection to Oneida culture, a strong educational background, and genuine enthusiasm for her new role.

“I love it here because of the sense of community,” Cindy shared. “It’s so serene. I’m really glad to be a part of the culture and history.”

For Cindy, joining the Shako:wi team, which is managed by Ron Patterson (Wolf Clan), feels like a homecoming. Along with her experience in education and retail, she brings decades of memories of the center — from its construction in 1993 to the present day. She’s honored to put her skills to use in ways that feel both meaningful and personally fulfilling.

But her responsibilities go far beyond the front desk. Cindy welcomes guests, leads tours and cultural presentations, and manages the center’s gift shop — a task she embraces with care and creativity.

“It’s like my own little gift shop. I do everything from ordering to arranging,” she said proudly.

Cindy’s passion for education has always shaped her career, from her time at Verona Collective to her new post at Shako:wi.

“Educating the public was always my favorite part. That’s something me and my family have always done,” she said. “So when I saw this position open, I thought it was a perfect fit.”

Growing up in the area, Cindy has long felt connected to Shako:wi. She fondly remembers watching the building go up and dreaming about it as a child.

“I was here when they built it. I used to pretend it was my house — the most beautiful house I’d ever seen. I still love log cabins,” she said with a laugh.

Now, that childhood dream has come full circle. Working at Shako:wi feels like home, and Cindy hopes every visitor leaves with a sense of pride in knowing the history and feeling how deeply the culture can touch the heart.

Whether she’s helping students make corn husk dolls or guiding international guests through the exhibits, Cindy is committed to making every visit meaningful. She sees the Shako:wi Cultural Center as a living space for cultural exchange, healing, and identity — and her role within it as both a responsibility and a privilege.

She also honors the legacy of her great uncle, Richard Chrisjohn (Wolf Clan), for whom the center is named. Already, Cindy has become a vibrant part of Shako:wi’s welcoming spirit.

“This isn’t just a job for me,” she said. “It’s an honor.”