Shoshone Nation leader honored with inaugural ‘Schnitzer Prize of the West’

BEND, Ore. (KTVZ) -- A new prize honoring innovative solutions to challenges across the American West was awarded Sunday evening at the High Desert Museum in Bend.

Brad Parry, vice chairman of the Northwestern Band of the Shoshone Nation, was named the inaugural winner of the Schnitzer Prize of the West. The $50,000 award was established in partnership with Jordan D. Schnitzer and the Harold & Arlene Schnitzer CARE Foundation.

Parry was recognized for his leadership of the Wuda Ogwa Cultural and Land Restoration Project at the site of the 1863 Bear River Massacre. Organizers say the project has become a national model for ecological healing, cultural preservation, and collaboration between Tribal members, local farmers, and government agencies.

“We’re weaving together our cultural history with modern climate practices,” Parry said.

“We started just because it’s our cultural belief. And to be recognized for kind of pushing that forward is extremely important to us. It tells our story. And to me, it’s the most humbling thing that literally has ever happened. And so it’s a great honor to be there,” Parry explained.

Jordan Schnitzer spoke of the award’s creation, saying its intention is to honor those working on long-standing Western issues through uncommon collaborations and thoughtful protection — both environmental and cultural.

“We should have a new prize that focuses on the unsung heroes that are working on fire issues, water rights, tribal issues, fishing issues, best ranching practices,” Schnitzer said.

“People with different opinions can come together, work together, compromise a bit here and there, and come up with solutions for the betterment of all of us,” Schnitzer added.

Sunday’s reception also recognized four finalists for the prize.

Organizers say the goal is to continue highlighting leaders whose work brings communities together and strengthens the future of the West.