Dr. Wilkie directs the Center for Indigenous People, Health and Nursing of North America at the School of Nursing. This Center serves as a regional (and national) hub for connections with Tribal Nations, government agencies, foundations, healthcare systems, and educational institutions. It supports and fosters research led or directed by AI/ANs to enhance health outcomes, and it collaborates and partners with urban and rural organizations and institutions to secure grant funding to support the mission and values of the center and stakeholders. Dr. Wilke is the first director of the Center, and in this role, she leads the development of the Center’s strategies and promotes the Center to the public. 

Dr. Wilkie also directs the Doctoral Education Pathway for American Indian/Alaska Native Nurses in the School of Nursing at the University of Minnesota. Under Dr. Wilkie’s leadership, the program has grown from 3 students to 19 students, leading the nation in enrollment of Native nurses. Once they earn their DNP, these nurses will lead health care institutions, provide services to Native patients, and teach in colleges and universities. 

Dr. Wilkie has brought national attention to Native American health disparities, the role of Native nurse leaders, and the School of Nursing’s commitment to minimizing health disparities to improve health outcomes for AI/AN individuals, families, and communities.