INTACHÃBI
BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Jessee is the chair of Nakona University.  She is a graduate Brown University in Rhode Island.  She is a descendent of He Wetsit and Redstone.  Jesse leads with great love for the Assiniboine language.  Her passion is to bring the language into the hearts and minds for the world through her expertise of media and performance art.  

Sharon's dedication to the Nakona language is truly admirable. As a retired high school Nakona language teacher, she has a wealth of knowledge and experience to offer. Her willingness to support and edit language lessons is a valuable asset to the community. Despite her Finnish descent, her commitment to the preservation of the Nakona language is enduring.

Carolyn Rusche is an enrolled member of the Fort Peck Tribes.  She is the second daughter of Edmund and Loretta Walton.  She is married with three children and five grandchild.  Carolyn has served Native American communities in Montana for over 30 years.  She has worked as classroom teacher, interventionist, and an Indigenous Education for All coach.  She has served in rural and urban areas.  She is a licensed administrator and teacher.

Sylvia's work as a counselor for the Fort Peck Tribes is truly remarkable. She understands the importance of bridging spirituality and wellness, and recognizes that there is no separation between spirituality, culture, and language. Sylvia's works to ensure Nakona University offers a balanced curriculum that blends intelectual, physical, emotional, and spiritual development of our learners.

Patricia Sue Payne is an enrolled member of the Fort Peck Assiniboine & Sioux Tribes.  She is the daughter of Bernadine Cleo Payne and Harold Adams. She has three children and one grandchild. Patricia has served as a teacher in both the regular and special education setting for the past 16 years.Patricia earned her two-year Nakona University Certification and is teaching Nakona Language to 4-6th grade for Wolf Point Public Schools After School Program. Patricia is licensed as a Professional Teacher and Administrator in the State of Montana.

Mikel is the mother of three and a lifelong resident of Fort Peck.  She has served the community as an IHS employee.  She has recently retired and is now committed to re-instilling cultural community connections and fostering a stronger sense of identity and purpose for our youth. Mikel is a passionate advocate and learner of our culture and language.

Dori Rush is an enrolled member of the Fort Peck Tribes.  She is a lifetime community member.  She is a descendent of Iye Yaxpa (He Wets it) and Īyā Sha (Redstone), the chiefs of the Assiniboine.  She is the first-born daughter of Edmund and Loretta Walton.  As a child, she was surrounded by the language.  She carries the dialect of the old people.  She is married with four children and seven grandchildren.  She is a rancher and has spent her life working with the earth.