Before obtaining three advanced degrees in theology and religion, his original college major was anthropology and archeology, specializing in Native American ethnology. Even more, he not only studied, but was directly involved with Native Americans in clubs, on reservations, participating in their powwows, and even helping their revival of traditional culture and dances that had been stripped from them by harsh public agencies. He advocated and lobbied for Native American rights, traditional way of life, and self-governance on different state and federal levels, including in Washington, D.C. 
   
Among the numerous gifts and honors he received from Native American persons - from ancient basket-weaving works of art, to ceremonial sash, to the award of a registered name among them - there are none he treasures more than the stories and legends.