AJRCCC Smudge Room To Hold Grand Opening Thursday, May 13
This effort was driven by Oneida Comprehensive Health Division (OCHD) interns during the summer pof 2025. Through collaboration with the Human Resources Department and the Higher Education Department, the pilot prioritized current Oneida Higher Education healthcare students and placed them directly within OCHD settings. This approach created opportunities for students to apply their education while contributing to initiatives that reflect Oneida values and community needs.
As part of this work, interns Margie Stevens, Donavin LaLuzerne, McKenna Metoxen, and Kaya Danforth were assigned a summer project focused on one of the AJRCCC’s Cultural Growth Initiatives. Their task was to bring forward a thoughtful and informed Smudge Room Recommendation, examining how such a space could support cultural, spiritual, and emotional wellness for residents, families, and staff.
The interns’ work underscored an important truth: culture is not separate from care. By listening, learning, and engaging with residents and care teams, they helped reaffirm the importance of having a space that honors traditional practices such as smudging, while also serving as a quiet and respectful wellness space for all individuals.
Their efforts reflect the strength of investing in Oneida students and empowering them to lead with knowledge, respect, and purpose. The Smudge Room now stands not only as a place for reflection and healing, but also as a reminder of the impact that emerging healthcare professionals can have when they are entrusted with meaningful work that supports cultural continuity.
OCHD is proud of Margie Stevens, Donavin LaLuzerne, McKenna Metoxen, and Kaya Danforth. Their work supported a vision of holistic, inclusive, and culturally grounded care, ensuring that the AJRCCC remains a place where residents are fully seen, respected, and supported.
