Velarde-Brandt Northern New Mexico Cultural Preservation Scholarship in Memory of Jennifer Kristen Brandt

I have deep ties not only to the land of New Mexico, but also to its culture and traditions. As a member of Taos Pueblo, this is the origin place of my people, where we have lived for thousands of years. The land is not just where I am from, it is part of who I am. Much of the knowledge I carry today has been passed down from my parents and grandparents, continuing a tradition of learning that stretches back generations. These teachings have shaped my values, my identity, and my sense of responsibility to my community. My great-grandfather, Paul Bernal, is my greatest role model and someone I strive to be like. He dedicated his life to the return of our sacred Blue Lake, sacrificing greatly for his people. As one of the few men who could speak both English and our native language, Tiwa, he served as a tribal interpreter. Because of this, he was able to travel to Washington, D.C. many times to meet with government leaders and advocate for our community. He carried the voices of our people into spaces where they were often ignored. Through his persistence, courage, and determination, he helped secure the return of Blue Lake. He was not only a political leader, but also a cultural leader who represented the strength, resilience, and traditions of our people. Because of his sacrifices and his commitment to serving others, he has inspired me to follow a similar path. His story reminds me that one person can make a lasting difference when they are willing to stand up for what is right. I want to give back to my community, which is the main reason I am pursuing a college education. I aspire to become a lawyer so I can represent and defend my people. Too often, Native communities face discrimination and lack proper representation in legal systems that affect their lives. I want to be a voice for those who are unheard and stand up for the rights of my community. Beyond Taos, I hope to extend my efforts to support other Native communities that are also underrepresented and taken advantage of. I want to use my education not just for personal success, but as a tool to create change and protect the rights of others. No matter where life takes me, Taos will always be my home. It is where my roots are, where my family is, and where my purpose begins. At the end of the day, I will always find ways to give back and support my community in any way I can.