Esa Nasumuna means Wolf Pack in Northern Paiute (Numu).
If you take a Paiute language class from Pyramid Lake Paiute elder Ralph Burns*, you might learn that “Esa Nasumuna” can be translated to “Wolf Pack” in Northern Paiute (Numu). A lecturer in the University’s College of Liberal Arts, Burns teaches one of thousands of courses that Native American students can take at no cost with the Native American Fee Waiver.
At the 69ÀÏʪ»ú¸£Àû, more than 250 students representing 53 tribes — illustrated here — are currently pursuing their educational goals through the Native American Fee Waiver. Enrolled members and descendants of any federally recognized tribe who are also Nevada residents do not pay tuition or other fees at any Nevada System of Higher Education institution, regardless of the class or program.
Visit the Office of Indigenous Relations to learn more.
*Editor’s Note: This article was originally published in the printed edition of the Nevada Silver & Blue magazine Spring 2025 issue, before the passing of Elder Ralph Burns on April 25, 2025. A respected culture keeper, educator, and advocate for Native language and tradition, Elder Burns leaves a legacy that will be remembered for generations. His contributions to the University, including his work revitalizing the Paiute language, continue to shape and inspire our community.
Land acknowledgement
We acknowledge that the 69ÀÏʪ»ú¸£Àû is situated on the traditional homelands of the Numu (Northern Paiute), Wašiw (Washoe), Newe (Western Shoshone), and Nuwu (Southern Paiute) peoples. These lands continue to be a gathering place for Indigenous Peoples and we recognize their deep connections to these places. We extend our appreciation for the opportunity to live and learn on their territory.