Archie Cantrell

Language Teacher

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Archie Cantrell was born and raised in Tacoma, WA and is a member of the Puyallup Tribe of Indians. He and his wife, Hope, have 3 children. Archie is a licensed foster parent, and holds a Master's Degree in Business Administration.

Archie graduated with honors from Puyallup High School in 2004 and became employed by the Puyallup Tribe shortly thereafter. Archie began working in Natural Resources at the Puyallup Tribal Fisheries as a Fisheries Sampler in 2004. In 2006, he changed positions and became a Fisheries Specialist. This work allowed him to participate and further his appreciation in all aspects of salmon culture, which is the Puyallup Tribe’s most valued natural resource.

Throughout his employment within the Puyallup Tribe, Archie has also been active with tribal youth. Archie served on the Puyallup Tribal Youth Committee from 2005-2015, serving as Chairman for eight years. Archie’s passion for assisting young tribal members lead him to change departments. In fall 2014, Archie transferred to the Puyallup Tribal Youth Center to work as a Youth Coordinator. This position allowed him to work closely and interact with tribal youth in the community, and also those attending Chief Leschi School.

Due to the Language Department office also being at the Youth Center, Archie began spending time with the language staff and learning introduction Lushootseed materials. This chance occurrence sparked his interest and he began pursuing personal Lushootseed instruction. After realizing he wanted to be a part of the Lushootseed movement on a full-time basis, Archie again transferred departments and began working for the Puyallup Tribal Language Program in summer 2016. This work allows him to work with tribal community members of all ages, and work directly with Chief Leschi Schools.

Archie is a very active member of the Puyallup Tribal Community. In addition to language, he enjoys participating in other cultural activities, such as singing and dancing in both coastal and plains styles. In his spare time, Archie is an active hunter, and commercial harvester of salmon, crab, shrimp, and geoduck.