Mahpiya Luta Graduate Jordan Derby: A Journey of Resilience, Community, and Achievement
Jordan Derby’s educational journey began in Porcupine, South Dakota, where she attended the Headstart immersion program and graduated from Kindergarten. Her formative years were spent at Our Lady of Lourdes (OLL) from 1st through 8th grade. Committed to providing her with a robust education, Jordan’s parents enrolled her at Mahpiya Luta for high school. This transition was smooth for Jordan, largely because she already had friends joining her at Mahpiya Luta, making it feel like a natural continuation of her academic journey.
Jordan’s high school years were marked by a significant personal challenge. She endured a painful condition where her toes would rub against her shoes, causing bleeding and discomfort. In the middle of her senior year (2020-2021), she made the difficult decision to unenroll from school to undergo surgery. Returning to school in the fall of 2021, Jordan completed her senior year and graduated in 2022. Although restarting her senior year was a tough decision that impacted her mental health, Jordan reflects that it was the right choice for her overall well-being.
One of the most meaningful aspects of Jordan’s time at Mahpiya Luta was the deep bond she formed with her younger sister. Staying in school longer allowed her to build a stronger relationship, with daily drives to school and shared experiences that brought them closer together. This experience helped Jordan appreciate her sister in a new light.
Jordan also discovered the power of community support during her time at Mahpiya Luta. She realized how many people were rooting for her success—family, friends, teachers, and community members. This support was especially evident when her college basketball signing ceremony was live-streamed, drawing over 1,000 viewers. The overwhelming support was a powerful reminder of the community’s excitement for her achievements as an indigenous student.
After graduating from Mahpiya Luta, Jordan attended Bismarck State College, where she played on the women’s basketball team and pursued a degree in Business Administration. The transition to college was manageable due to her strong support system. Jordan found the college environment similar to Mahpiya Luta, with smaller class sizes and personal interactions with professors, which eased her adjustment. Describing herself as a “turtle in a shell,” Jordan believes that if she could handle the transition, others could too.
Jordan’s college achievements include being on the President’s Honor Roll all four semesters and receiving the “Outstanding Student in the Major of Business Administration” award in her first year. She graduated with an Associate’s degree in Business Administration in May 2024, and her active involvement in the women’s basketball team was a significant part of her college experience. Jordan Derby’s journey is a testament to her resilience, determination, and the unwavering support of her community.