Written by Ryan Crawford, Oglala Lakota College, 2024-2025 Native Student Veteran Fellow
As I reflect on my experience attending the Naabaahii Ółta’í: Native Student Veterans Peer-to-Peer Program Convening in Tulsa, Oklahoma, on February 25-26, 2025, I am filled with a sense of deep gratitude and admiration for the connections made and the insights shared. This was a rare and meaningful opportunity that I will forever cherish, as it allowed me to meet fellow Native veteran students, our inspiring mentor, Dr. Randall, and our wonderful Program Officer, Bridget.
Over the course of these two days, I experienced something truly unique. We shared more than just our military experiences; we also connected personally, relating to one another’s journeys through higher education. For many of us, this was a space where we could truly be ourselves, share our challenges, and find strength in one another’s stories.
One of the highlights of the convening was our tour of the beautiful College of the Muscogee Nation campus. Walking through the halls of this institution, which is deeply rooted in Native culture, gave me a profound sense of pride and inspiration. We were also fortunate to hear from honorable guest speakers whose words were both uplifting and motivational, pushing us to think about the bigger picture of our roles as Native veterans in both our communities and the wider world.
Our visit to the Muscogee Nation’s Veteran Affairs Offices and Museum and the Philbrook Museum of Art offered us further opportunities to connect with our heritage and reflect on the legacies of those who came before us. These enriching cultural experiences grounded our conversations in a shared history and vision for the future.
The convening itself was therapeutic in many ways. Sharing personal stories, offering support, and gaining valuable advice from fellow students and mentors created a safe and nurturing space for all of us. It felt like a place where we could be vulnerable and strong simultaneously, knowing that everyone in the room truly understood our experiences.
This was more than just a gathering—it was a chance for growth, healing, and empowerment. Opportunities like this are invaluable for Native veteran students like myself, and I sincerely wish every Native veteran student could have access to such a powerful experience. I am beyond grateful for the opportunity to participate in this convening and look forward to future gatherings for current fellows and alumni.
In closing, I am inspired to continue my educational journey with the lessons learned, the connections made, and the support of my fellow Native veteran students. The Naabaahii Ółta’í: Native Student Veterans Peer-to-Peer Program convening has helped shape my academic path and reaffirmed the importance of community, culture, and service.
