Native Women in Education

In the past 10 years, the number of Native Americans with a bachelor’s degree has increased from less than 11% to more than 15.4%. Over half of our scholars are women, and they are putting in the work to continue to increase that number -women like College Fund ambassador, Mahpiya, an Indigenous scholar who is truly making a difference:

Being a mother is one of the biggest and most important jobs one could have, as parents are our first educators. For College Fund ambassador Mahpiya (Rosebud Sioux Tribe of the Rosebud Indian Reservation), her children are her biggest motivation, and her education is what gives her the power and strength to make positive change in her tribal community. Covid seriously harmed her community, as it led to the loss of many of their elders who were the primary holders of their language and culture. Identity is the backbone of one’s sense of self, as when you know where you come from you can confidently move forward to where you want to go.

Not wanting her son to grow up with part of himself missing, Mahpiya plans to use her degree to teach at a Lakota immersion school on her reservation. Sharing the stories of their ancestors with her son and others helps them balance both worlds by standing proud as Lakota people.