ABSTRACT
This chapter introduces readers to relationships between Indigenous identities and leadership in diverse educational environments and institutions and will benefit policy makers in education, student affairs professionals, scholars, faculty and students. Melvin received both a BS in Elementary Education and an MS in Educational Leadership from the University of North Dakota. Over the years, American Indians developed voices when it comes to American Indian student issues as well as other issues of social justice. Within national organizations for student affairs professionals American Indian or Indigenous affinity groups developed and continue to grow. The transition from ignorant light-skinned Indian kid to self-actualized multifaceted individual is more than growth. Every life experience teaches him to balance work and leadership by meeting people where they are and contributing critical questions to conversations. That Elder taught him that people are not inherently oppositional; rather, they are merely acting out what they have learned. Open dialogues foster additional network opportunities for students and families.
