On September 8th, 2025, Agwadeyësta’ Do:gë:h— a nonprofit dedicated to preserving the Onön:dowa’ga:’ Gawënö’ (Seneca language) — hosted its second annual golf tournament fundraiser in Salamanca, NY. The event brought together Seneca Nation community members, supporters, and sponsors to connect and celebrate the importance of language preservation.
The recently acquired Rochester Knighthawks kindly donated a signed jersey from team member Zed Williams, a Seneca wolf clan member, to the event. Agwadeyësta’ Do:gë:h then donated the proceeds from the jersey auction to the family of Noah Snyder, a beloved lacrosse standout who unexpectedly passed away earlier this month.
Noah, a notable former player of the Rochester Junior Knighthawks and of the Haudenosaunee Nationals U-20 team, was one of two Marquette University lacrosse students who tragically passed in a car accident, both of whom were recently named to the Big East All-men’s lacrosse team. Seneca Holdings extends its deepest condolences to the families and friends of Noah and Scott Michaud. We recognize the profound loss felt across the lacrosse world; our hearts are with all who are grieving during this difficult time.
Seneca Holdings, the economic development arm of the Seneca Nation, continued its sponsorship of the tournament, reinforcing its commitment to investing in initiatives that strengthen cultural identity and community well-being. Together, Agwadeyësta’ Do:gë:h, the Rochester Knighthawks, and Seneca Holdings exemplify the power of collaboration in uplifting Indigenous language, culture, and community.
Agwadeyësta’ Do:gë:h, which translates to “We learn together,” is a 501(c)3 organization committed to producing fluent Onöndowa’ga:’ (Seneca) speakers through collaborating, connecting, and supporting current language and cultural programs for the Seneca Nation. They have been able to fund the certification of Montessori instructors, provide classroom equipment and resources, sponsor language teachers to attend professional development seminars, co-sponsor two comprehensive language conferences, and more.
Enterprise Mobility Foundation™ Grant Support
In addition to the funds raised through the golf tournament, the Agwadeyęsta’ Do:gë:h language program also received a grant donation through the Enterprise Mobility Foundation™, made possible by Seneca Holdings’ partnership with Enterprise|National.
This marks the third consecutive year the Seneca Holdings team has secured this funding, which is designed to support initiatives in community improvement, education, and environmental stewardship.
Thank you to SNI Media for capturing this photo.
