Big Spirit Inc. is proud to share that Founder and CEO Shanne Soulier has been recognized with the Stellar Award from the University of Minnesota’s Office for Supplier Diversity. This honor celebrates businesses that exemplify diversity, inclusion, and meaningful community impact, which are values that have guided Big Spirit from the very beginning 13 years ago.
A Recognition of Values in Action
The Stellar Award honors business leaders from underrepresented communities, like people of color, women, and individuals with disabilities, who are dedicated to creating inclusive opportunities both within their organizations and throughout the communities they serve. For Shanne Soulier, this recognition is not just a professional milestone; it’s a reflection of a lifelong mission to bring people together through shared purpose and understanding.
“This award is deeply meaningful because it represents the values that guide Big Spirit every day,” said Soulier. “We believe that business can be a force for connection, understanding, and empowerment. Receiving this recognition from the University of Minnesota affirms that the work we do matters—not only to our clients but also to the broader community we aim to uplift.”
Nominated by a Fellow Advocate for Diversity
Shanne was nominated for the Stellar Award by Luiza Dreasher, founder of Mastering Cultural Differences, an organization that provides diversity, equity, and inclusion training to help workplaces become more culturally aware and socially responsible. The nomination itself reflects the spirit of partnership and mutual respect that drives Big Spirit’s work.
“Luiza’s belief in our mission and commitment to building bridges across cultures means so much,” Shanne shared. “Our collaboration reinforces how powerful community-driven relationships can be when they’re rooted in shared values.”
Leading with Purpose and Cultural Pride
As a citizen of the Red Cliff Band of Lake Superior Chippewa, Shanne brings his heritage and cultural understanding into the heart of his business. His vision for Big Spirit has always been to balance professional excellence with social responsibility and cultural respect.
Through his leadership, Big Spirit has grown into a company that helps organizations tell their stories through branded promotional products and custom printed solutions. With concierge consulting to make sure marketing goals are met, the work Big Spirit collaborates on with clients also strengthens cultural awareness and inclusion across many industries and organizations. The types of these industries and organizations Big Spirit collaborates with include major non-profits, educational institutions, government agencies, and tribal entities.
Big Spirit’s Mission and Impact
Founded on the belief that every organization has a story worth telling, Big Spirit Inc. helps clients across the U.S. execute their vision through strategic marketing, graphic design, branded promotional products, printing, and fulfillment.
Every project Big Spirit takes on reflects the company’s broader mission which is to foster prosperity, build awareness, promote culture, and contribute to the success of others. This approach ensures that diversity and inclusion aren’t just aspirational ideas but everyday practices embedded in the work they do.
Honoring Collective Spirit
The recognition from the University of Minnesota’s Office for Supplier Diversity highlights what makes Big Spirit truly special: a deep respect for culture, a dedication to excellence, and a passion for helping others succeed.
Big Spirit is highly honored to receive this award because it shows that others recognize what’s remained important to Big Spirit for 13 years: lifting up community. Shanne looks forward to continuing the work of uplifting stories, building connections, and celebrating culture across all communities.
About Big Spirit, Inc.
Big Spirit Inc. is a Native-owned marketing company based in Minneapolis, Minnesota. The firm helps organizations bring their visions to life through culturally conscious marketing solutions, including creative design, branded promotional products, print, and fulfillment services. Big Spirit’s work empowers clients to stand out, connect authentically with their audiences, and make a lasting, positive impact in communities across the U.S.
To learn more about Big Spirit’s work or connect with Shanne Soulier, visit bigspiritinc.com.
