Contact us at: whispernthunder1@gmail.com2024 WINDS SCHOLARSHIP WINNERS
~ Melody Gotwalt
There exists a wealth of research on how
educating individuals on culture leads to a
better state of understanding and inclusion
for our multi-cultured nation. Alternatively,
the acquisition of an education can lead
to growth for the whole nation as the
member shares what they have learned
with their community.
For this reason, each year Whisper N Thunder awards scholarship funds to three tribal members enrolled in higher education. Our scholars exhibited their outstanding potential through essays, extensive prior work in their communities, and noble goals for service in the future.
I am proud to introduce you to our 2024 scholarship winners.
Meucci Watchman Illunga - Bernard / Letica scholarship - $2,500.00
A member of the Navaho Nation, Meucci Watchman is in his first year as a doctoral student at Johns Hopkins University. He is pursing his PhD in Biostatistics.
As his education progressed, he has significantly contributed to his nation in many way worked at first as a medical technologists at the medical center on his reservation, and progressed to his work as a Wildlife Biologist for the Navajo Nation Climate Change Program under the Dept. of Fish and Wildlife. His goal upon graduation is to develop relationships with outside research firms, interfacing with his own program on the Navaho reservation to build policies that would include the needs of tribal nations.
“My time at the medical center, though challenging, was immensely rewarding. It enriched my life, provided invaluable experiences, and affirmed my commitment to improving the lives of all members of the Navajo Nation. My role allowed me to make a tangible impact on the lives of many, reinforcing my unbreakable commitment to the well-being of my community.” Meucci Watchman
Ariel Shirley - $1,000.00
A member of the Diné Nation, Ariel Shirley is in her second year pursuing a Masters degree at Dartmouth College. She is majoring in Public Health, and serves in the Indian Health Service Outreach of that institution.
She has put her education to work, serving in nutritional programs, obesity prevention, and as a case manager helping patients’ mental health, substance abuse and social roadblocks preventing their recovery. She also participates in the American Heart Association Heart Walks to raise funds for their work. After completing her education, she plans to work within her nations Health Policy developers to ensure make impactful changes in mental health care and creating an equitable health system to overcome barriers that have existed in the past.
“I hope to change the tribal health narrative by improving chronic disease prevalence and health outcomes. I want individuals to regain their power and control of their health.” Ariel Shirley
George Houle - Ferris Scholarship - $500.00
A member of the Whitefish Lake Cree Nation, George Houle is in his third year at the University of Alberta. He is pursuing a BA degree in Commerce and is the Honors Finance Program. He is president of the Indigenous Business Students Association, and plays recreational basketball in his spare time.
Back home during his younger years, he helped elders and provided food for the community through farming, hunting and fishing. Putting his college education to use, George now serves his community as a financial advisor, and is a member of the community finance committee. After graduation, he plans to establish a financial investment institution to help members of his community make it out of their financial hardships.
“Working hard will contribute positively to my future because without hard work I cannot move forward. If I am not willing to experience adversity and work towards my goals I will not accomplish much and I will have wasted my talents. And my talents can help my people.” George Houle
Needless to say, we are honored to be able to support our scholarship winners in their pursuits. We are also very excited for the difference they will make in the future. Of course, none of this would be possible without the generosity of our donors to the WINDS scholarship program. We thank you for your past and future support.