Marina Hawkins’ story begins on the Pine Ridge Indian Reservation, rooted in family, culture, and the steady strength of the women who raised her. She spent much of her childhood at her Unci’s home, a place filled with Lakota language, teachings, shared meals, laughter, and relatives coming and going. “She was a huge pillar in my life,” Marina shares. Surrounded by cousins, aunties, and grandmothers, she learned more than everyday life skills—she learned kinship. She learned what it meant to be a good cousin, sister, granddaughter, daughter, aunty, and friend.
Marina spent much of her upbringing in Wanblee, where another one of her grandmothers is from. Being in Wanblee created many memorable adventures: always being outside, making mud pies, riding bikes with cousins, and collecting the scrapes and scars of childhood. Through challenges and struggles, there was always joy, love, and humor. Above all, the women in her family shaped her identity and strength. “I love the women in my family,” she says. “They helped shape a lot of who I am.”
After attending Wolf Creek for elementary and middle school, Marina’s mother encouraged her to attend Maȟpíya Lúta for high school, where some of her siblings were already enrolled. It was a pivotal decision—one she now describes as something she is “eternally grateful for.”
The transition to high school brought academic challenges. Moving into a more rigorous environment, she sometimes felt unprepared, especially in math and science. There were moments when keeping up felt overwhelming. What made the difference, she says, were teachers who were “open and kind and patient and wanting the best outcome for you.” Although asking questions did not always come easily, she learned the importance of advocating for herself. “I am always glad I did,” she reflects. “It always saved me.” She also found refuge in the school library, a quiet and safe space where she could focus and complete her work. Through perseverance and support, she gained not only academic skills but also confidence.
During her time at Maȟpíya Lúta, Marina built meaningful friendships filled with laughter and connection. She cherished visiting with teachers and mentors, knowing their classrooms were safe spaces for guidance and encouragement. One relationship that stands out in particular was her connection with Sr. Connie. “She was someone I could go to for a good visit, questions, inspiration, and unique candies,” she remembers. Sr. Connie’s presence left a lasting impression.
Maȟpíya Lúta also offered opportunities for growth beyond the classroom. Marina stepped outside her comfort zone by playing volleyball, joining the Spiritual Formation team, serving on committees, participating in community projects, and studying Lakota language for four years. “There was always something to be a part of,” she says. Through these experiences, she learned how to manage stress, be part of a community, engage with peers, and most importantly, be a good relative.
After graduation, Marina took a bold step and attended the University of South Dakota. Leaving the reservation was intimidating. “This transition was scary, if I am honest,” she shares. Yet that challenge led to growth. She built friendships, explored new opportunities, and joined the Theatre Club, helping build stage sets for productions. She credits Maȟpíya Lúta for preparing her to step into a larger world with confidence and resilience.
One of the most significant gifts Maȟpíya Lúta gave her was a deep connection to Lakota language and culture. Four years of language study strengthened her identity and set her on a path she continues today. She graciously credits Unci Philomine Lakota for that influence. After high school, she continued her language journey in college and later became a Lakota language teacher at Rural America Initiatives in Rapid City. Teaching toddlers their language, she says, was “heart work.”
She later transitioned to working with at-risk youth and adults in a suicide prevention program at Great Plains Tribal Leaders Health Board, where culture is used as healing. Today, she serves as a Program Manager for a suicide prevention initiative in Rapid City, supporting Indigenous relatives in the He Sapa area. Marina was also a 2015 recipient of the Cassandra Jade Pine Memorial Scholarship, recognizing her commitment to mental health and community support.
Through her work, Marina continues to teach language, share traditional teachings, and help others. She recalls a teaching shared by a Dakota relative: “If you take care of the language, the language will take care of you.” Her life reflects that belief. She has also been selected to serve on committees focused on strengthening behavioral health systems in Native communities.
Marina’s journey was not linear, but it led her to meaningful work rooted in purpose. “I truly feel I am doing what I am here for when I get to be around Lakota language and speakers and my people, and when I get to help relatives and make someone’s life a little easier,” she says.
Outside of work, she enjoys running, hiking, harvesting, learning to garden, and exploring new hobbies. She is nearing completion of her Bachelor’s degree in Social Work and plans to continue her education while serving her community and strengthening her language.
When asked what advice she would give, Marina’s message is grounded in trust and hope. “Trust Creator’s plan, because things will always work out the way they are supposed to. I look at where I am now and could not be any happier and more grateful for the path I am on. I just know I am right where I am supposed to be. But also, do what will create the happiest version of you.”
From Lakota language learner to teacher, from student to leader in behavioral health, Marina Hawkins’ journey reflects the heart of Maȟpíya Lúta—rooted in culture, guided by community, and committed to caring for others.