Nike Executive Sam McCracken to Engage in Fireside Chat at UND

Sam McCracken, General Manager of Nike N7 Programs, to Speak with President Armacost on April 22

Join University of North Dakota (UND) President Andy Armacost for a fireside chat with business leader Sam McCracken, the visionary General Manager of Nike N7 programs. The engaging discussion will take place at 2 p.m. on Tuesday, April 22, in the Barry Auditorium of the Nistler College of Business & Public Administration at UND.

This event is sponsored by the UND Indigenous Student Center and the Nistler College of Business & Public Administration.

More About Sam McCracken

Sam McCracken is a proud member of the Sioux and Assiniboine tribes of Fort Peck Indian Reservation in northeastern Montana. Since joining Nike in 1997, McCracken has made significant contributions to the company, particularly in revitalizing Nike’s Native American Employee Network and advocating for Native American health initiatives.

In 2000, he spearheaded the creation of the Nike Air Native N7 shoe and the N7 Fund, aiming to promote access to sports and education for Native American communities. McCracken has led over 25 product collections and initiatives encouraging physical activity and wellness among Indigenous populations.

His leadership extends beyond product development; he has played a pivotal role in forging partnerships with health organizations to further Nike’s commitment to social justice and health for Native communities.

Recognitions

McCracken’s impactful work has garnered numerous accolades, including:

• Nike’s Bowerman Award in 2004.
• George Washington Honor Medal for his commitment to health promotion in native communities.
• Recognition as one of the world’s 20 most innovative intrapreneurs in 2007.
• Appointments to advisory councils by former President Barack Obama.
• 2020 induction into the Montana Indian Athletic Hall of Fame.
• 2022 award for Social Intrapreneur of the Year at the World Economic Forum.

This upcoming event at UND not only highlights McCracken’s professional journey but also illustrates the broader commitment to fostering health and opportunity within Indigenous communities.