The Society for American Archaeology (SAA) aims to empower its members to understand humanity’s past through ethically-based scientific and humanistic investigation. Its mission is to promote the preservation of archaeological resources and cultural heritage through support of legislation and education, create collaboration between the profession and descendant communities, and assist in the professional growth of its members. SAA strives to champion archaeologists in their efforts to advance knowledge and protect the past for society, aiming to build a more ethical, just, and equitable future for the profession.
The grant program aims to foster a sense of shared purpose and positive interaction between archaeologists and Native Americans through the establishment of the Native American Scholarships Fund (NASF). Additionally, it includes the Bertha Parker Cody Award for Native American Women, which supports undergraduate and graduate studies for Native American, Alaska Native, and Native Hawaiian women, including gender non-conforming individuals, in the fields of archaeology and museum studies. This award seeks to encourage the involvement of Native American women in these fields, with funding partially provided by the Autry Museum of the American West. One scholarship is available annually.