When did you start working at UMD/with CEHSP?
August 2020 as a community trainer. December 2021 in my current role.
Why did you choose to work at UMD?
I believe in the work of the TTCP. I fully believe that training and education will produce better outcomes for our Indigenous families in Minnesota. I have always admired the people at the Center for Regional and Tribal Child Welfare Studies. I looked up to them and all the work they’ve done throughout the years and feel honored to work alongside them now. I appreciate the people and the support that the department and college provide also.
What do you like most about your job?
Training. I love working with people who have the same drive and the same mission of bettering outcomes for Indigenous families and children in Minnesota. I love the dynamics of being in a training classroom and seeing the ‘click’ in people learning new things for the first time. I also like feeling like a change is being made—and being supported in that change is great too.
What advice do you have for students?
No change is ever too little, big changes can be made with small dreams.
This is literally my dream job and it started with an idea and people willing to put in the work.
What do you like to do in your free time?
I don’t have a lot of free time. I work a lot and I am a mom of three. My kids are what drive my heart for this work. They deserve the best in their communities and families, they should never have to worry about being a part of the system that’s based on racial and systemic bias. My kids have pushed me to be a better person, cousin, auntie, relative and community member. I like showing them what the world has to offer and watching them grow.