My core values are community, connection, respect, and service. These values have been shaped by my experiences as a Kiowa woman, a student at Fort Lewis College, a leader within my campus community, and someone pursuing a career in Adventure Education with a Wilderness Therapy Certificate. They guide the way I interact with others and influence the impact I hope to make through my future work in the mental health field. Growing up, I learned that healing and wellness are not individual journeys but community responsibilities. In many Indigenous communities, well-being is connected to relationships, culture, family, and the natural world. These teachings have influenced my understanding of mental health and inspired me to pursue Wilderness Therapy. I believe that healing can happen through meaningful connections with others, time spent in nature, and opportunities for personal growth. My goal is to help individuals build resilience, confidence, and a stronger sense of self through therapeutic outdoor experiences. Another value that drives me is creating spaces of belonging. Throughout my college experience, I have worked to build community for others. As the founder and Circle Head of the Fort Lewis Powwow Circle, I created a space where students could connect through culture, dance, and shared experiences. Through this role, I learned that people thrive when they feel welcomed, supported, and valued. This lesson directly applies to mental health work, where trust and connection are essential to helping others grow and heal. Leadership is also an important value in my life. As a Hozhoni Ambassador at Fort Lewis College, I have had the opportunity to represent my college while promoting balance, respect, and community engagement. The concept of Hozhoni, which emphasizes harmony and beauty, aligns closely with my approach to leadership and mental health. I strive to lead with compassion, empathy, and a commitment to serving others. In the future, I hope to use Wilderness Therapy to support young people who may be struggling with mental health challenges, self-confidence, or feelings of isolation. I want to create opportunities for individuals to discover their strengths, reconnect with themselves, and develop healthy coping skills through experiences in nature. I am particularly interested in making mental health resources more accessible to Indigenous youth and other underserved communities that may face barriers to receiving support. My values will continue to shape my future work by reminding me that every person deserves to feel seen, heard, and supported. Through a career in Wilderness Therapy, I hope to combine my passion for mental health, leadership, and community-building to help others heal, grow, and recognize their own potential. By staying rooted in these values, I believe I can make a meaningful and lasting difference in the lives of those I serve.

As a member of the Kiowa Tribe, my Native identity is one of the most important parts of who I am. It influences the way I view community, leadership, education, and my responsibility to others. Growing up, I learned the importance of respecting my culture, honoring my family, and carrying forward the teachings of those who came before me. While there have been challenges that come with being Native American in spaces where Indigenous people are often underrepresented, those experiences have strengthened my determination to be a leader and advocate for my community. One of the most meaningful parts of my life has been participating in powwow culture. Powwows are more than events; they are places where families reunite, traditions are celebrated, and communities come together. Through dancing, traveling, and spending time with Native communities across the country, I have developed a strong sense of belonging and cultural pride. Powwows have taught me confidence, discipline, and respect while helping me stay connected to my roots. Some of my favorite memories involve traveling with family and friends to powwows, supporting one another, and sharing in the joy of our traditions. My passion for culture and community inspired me to create the Fort Lewis Powwow Circle, a student organization dedicated to providing a welcoming space for students interested in powwow dancing and Native culture. As the founder and Circle Head, I have worked to organize practices, workshops, and cultural events that bring students together. This experience has taught me valuable leadership skills and shown me the impact that one person can have when they are willing to create opportunities for others. Seeing students gain confidence, learn about Native traditions, and find community through the organization has been one of my greatest successes. Another significant milestone in my journey was being selected as a Hozhoni Ambassador candidate at Fort Lewis College. Hozhoni is often understood as balance, beauty, and harmony, values that closely align with my own goals and beliefs. Through this opportunity, I have been able to represent not only myself but also my culture, community, and college. The experience has challenged me to grow as a leader, public speaker, and role model while encouraging me to think deeply about how I can serve others. Being Native American has shaped my life by teaching me resilience, humility, and the importance of community. It has given me a strong sense of purpose and a desire to uplift others wherever I can. Whether through powwow dancing, cultural leadership, or serving as a Hozhoni Ambassador, I strive to create spaces where people feel welcome, respected, and connected. I am proud of where I come from, and I carry my culture with me in everything I do. As I continue my education and pursue my future goals, I hope to use what I have learned from my community to make a positive impact on the lives of others and to help strengthen Indigenous representation for future generations.