Marlee: From Maȟpíya Lúta to a Bright Future
Marlee’s academic journey is a powerful narrative of perseverance, community, and transformative growth. With a deep family connection to Holy Rosary/Red Cloud School, now known as Maȟpíya Luta, Marlee’s path was shaped by a legacy of educational commitment that spans generations. Her grandmother was a student when it was still Holy Rosary, and Marlee’s mother and aunties followed in her footsteps, creating a rich family tradition at Maȟpíya Lúta.
Marlee’s time at Maȟpíya Lúta High School was marked by both triumphs and challenges. One significant hurdle came during the college application process when she faced rejection from a major scholarship she had been counting on. This setback, while initially disheartening, ultimately redirected Marlee toward prestigious institutions she might not have considered otherwise. The challenge proved to be a catalyst for growth, steering her toward new opportunities and experiences.
Throughout her years at Maȟpíya Lúta, Marlee built impactful relationships with teachers who played a crucial role in her development. From elementary through high school, these educators helped shape her self-confidence and academic skills, providing guidance on everything from college essays to personal growth. Many of these connections remain strong today, with Marlee staying in touch and valuing their continued support.
Marlee’s transition from Maȟpíya Lúta to Yale University was a significant leap, both academically and personally. The rigorous coursework at Yale presented challenges that were more intense than anything she had previously encountered. Despite initial struggles with grades, Marlee leveraged the strong support systems available to her, including family, friends, and university resources, to navigate her way through these difficulties successfully.
Recently, Marlee completed her third year of teaching at Maȟpíya Lúta Middle School, a role she has cherished deeply. Her passion for education and her desire to be a role model for students who once sat in her seat have been at the heart of her teaching career. Her experiences at Maȟpíya Lúta have come full circle as she now imparts knowledge and inspiration to the next generation.
Additionally, Marlee was actively involved in various extracurricular activities during her college years. She found fulfillment in her role as a mentor, working with first-year students at the Native American Cultural Center and helping them adjust to college life. Her involvement in the Yale Center for British Art and the theatre, provided her with a well-rounded college experience.
Marlee’s passion for community, which was nurtured during her time at Maȟpíya Lúta, became even more apparent during her college years. Her sense of belonging and support was profoundly
meaningful, reinforcing the importance of community in her life. Looking ahead, Marlee is currently in a PhD program at the University of Washington in Seattle this Fall, focusing on Indigenous literatures. Her research will build on the foundations laid at Yale, continuing her commitment to exploring and preserving her cultural heritage.
Alumni Wisdom
Reflecting on her journey, Marlee advises her past self to seek help when needed and to embrace the support offered by others. For current Maȟpíya Lúta students, she encourages them to pursue their ambitions boldly, reminding them that they are more capable than they might realize. A helping hand and a supportive word can make all the difference in achieving their goals.
Marlee’s story is a testament to the strength of community, the power of perseverance, and the impact of educational support. Her journey from Maȟpíya Lúta to her current path in academia exemplifies the transformative power of resilience and connection.