I am a wife, mother, grandmother, & great grandmother. I am an enrolled member of the Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation (CTUIR). I chose the MA in Cultural Studies program for its attention to power, privilege, and the historical aspects of culture, all critical factors to understanding people and politics. Cultural Studies allowed me to enhance my communication and collaboration abilities, skills which I use every day. I am passionate about social justice and ensuring access to education, and have dedicated my career to serving the needs of underrepresented populations, especially American Indian/Alaska Native students.