July 28-30, 2026
The Westin La Paloma Resort & Spa, Tucson, AZ
Eric Michael Hernandez
Our keynote presenter, Eric Michael Hernandez, is deeply dedicated to community outreach and the vital relationship between people and the natural world, making him uniquely qualified to engage today’s public lands leaders and guide attendees through a unique interactive experience.
We invite you to connect with Eric at TerraSync, where he will inspire us all!
Cultural Heritage and Artistic Expression
Eric Michael Hernandez is a renowned Native American hoop dancer, filmmaker, and public speaker, known for blending his Lumbee heritage with artistic expression. He grew up learning hoop dance under the guidance of his uncle, Terry Godel, a nine-time world champion hoop dancer, mastering intricate hoop manipulations and incorporating personal flair into his performances. His unique style emphasizes smooth transitions and storytelling through dance, allowing him to share the cultural richness of his Lumbee roots while captivating audiences globally.
Career Achievements
Hernandez rose to prominence with his performances in Cirque du Soleil’s Totem, where he showcased his skills on an international stage, delivering over 5,000 performances to more than 10 million people. A career highlight includes his performance at the 91st Academy Awards in 2019, contributing to a powerful display of Native American culture. He has ventured into filmmaking with his recent short film titled Courage, chronicling his journey of self-discovery and embracing his Native identity through dance. Additionally, he delivered an impactful TEDx talk in 2023, The Modern Native American Story, focusing on breaking stereotypes and encouraging audiences to connect with Native teachings.
Cultural Ambassador
As a cultural ambassador, Eric strives to inspire others to embrace movement, culture, and spirituality as vital components of life. Through various creative mediums, he uplifts Indigenous stories and traditions, fostering cultural understanding and appreciation. Collaborating with industry giants like Cirque du Soleil, Red Bull, Virgin Voyages, Deloitte, and Nike, he shares the richness of Native traditions and the artistry of hoop dance, inspiring audiences to navigate life with grace and beauty.
