Pauline Turner Strong is an American anthropologist and museum professional known for her research in archaeology, Indigenous studies, and museum ethics. She is a professor in the Department of Anthropology at the University of Colorado Boulder, where she teaches and conducts research on the archaeology of the North American Great Plains and the cultural heritage of Indigenous peoples.
Education and Career
Strong received her undergraduate degree in anthropology before completing a Ph.D. in anthropology with a specialization in archaeology. Following her doctoral work, she held academic positions at several institutions, ultimately joining the faculty of the University of Colorado Boulder. In addition to her university responsibilities, Strong has served in leadership roles within museum organizations, including positions on advisory boards and committees that address the representation and inclusion of Native American perspectives in museum collections and exhibitions.
Research Focus
Strong’s scholarly contributions concentrate on:
- The material culture and settlement patterns of Plains Indigenous groups, particularly during the pre-contact and early contact periods.
- Collaborative and community-engaged approaches to archaeology that prioritize Indigenous voices and knowledge systems.
- Ethical considerations surrounding the curation, interpretation, and repatriation of Native American artifacts within museum contexts.
Her work frequently emphasizes the importance of integrating archaeological findings with oral histories and ethnographic data to produce more nuanced understandings of Indigenous histories.
Publications and Projects
Strong has authored and co‑authored numerous peer‑reviewed articles, book chapters, and monographs. Notable publications include studies on site formation processes in the Plains, analyses of trade networks among Indigenous societies, and discussions of museum practices that promote decolonization and equity. She has also contributed to collaborative research projects that involve Indigenous communities in the planning and execution of archaeological investigations.
Professional Service
She has been active in professional organizations such as the Society for American Archaeology and the American Anthropological Association, serving on committees related to ethics, public archaeology, and Indigenous affairs. Strong has participated in workshops, conferences, and public outreach initiatives aimed at fostering dialogue between scholars, museum professionals, and Indigenous stakeholders.
Recognition
Strong’s contributions to anthropology and museum studies have been recognized through research grants, invited lectures, and awards from academic and cultural heritage institutions. Her efforts toward inclusive and ethically responsible scholarship have positioned her as a leading figure in contemporary discussions about the role of archaeology and museums in representing Indigenous cultures.