Meet Mato Hinton, a dedicated advocate for youth mental health and a proud Mahpiya Luta graduate, who is now in his senior year at Oglala Lakota College (OLC), pursuing a Bachelor of Social Work. Mato’s journey to Mahpiya Luta High School in 2010-2011 began when he passed a critical entrance test, an opportunity that would shape his future both academically and personally. Mato’s journey to Mahpiya Luta began in Oglala, SD, where he attended Loneman School. His academic success led him to Mahpiya Luta High School in 2010, where he not only excelled in the classroom but also found a supportive community. “I chose Mahpiya Luta because of my love for basketball and the guidance of the staff who encouraged me to take this step,” Mato recalls.
His time at Mahpiya Luta, however, wasn’t without hardship. During his sophomore year, his parents divorced, and tragically, he lost his brother to suicide just weeks before his junior year began. Despite these challenges, Mato found an incredible support system within the Mahpiya Luta community, including teachers, staff, and fellow students who were there for him during his grief — helping him navigate these challenges and grow stronger. “The football team sang me a song and prayed for me while I was grieving. The counseling department was always there for me. It was a place where I knew I wasn’t alone,” he reflects.
Mato credits his resilience to the strong relationships he built at Mahpiya Luta. Teachers like Susan Daniels, Russell Cournoyer, and Brad Held provided not just academic guidance, but also emotional support. These bonds, formed in the classroom, on the basketball court, and through shared adversity, have remained strong throughout his life.
After high school, Mato pursued a degree in Sports and Recreation Management at Chadron State College, but decided to take a gap year and transfer to OLC. At OLC, Mato discovered his passion for social work, motivated by a desire to advocate for the mental health and well-being of youth. Now, as a senior, Mato is also a counselor intern at Mahpiya Luta High School, where he’s giving back to the community that supported him.
Mato’s leadership extends beyond academics. He serves as the student president of Oglala College Center and as a student representative on the local board. He is also the JV boys’ basketball coach at Mahpiya Luta, mentoring the next generation of students both on and off the court. “I want to help the youth of the Pine Ridge Reservation overcome mental health challenges, and use basketball as a way to build confidence and resilience,” he says.
Mato’s journey has not been linear—he faced academic challenges, took breaks, and persevered, but his resilience has always driven him toward his goal of helping others. In his own words, “You can do anything you want to, there just has to be an everlasting driving force behind what you do.” Mato’s advice to students? “If you ever have to bet on someone, always bet on yourself.” He also emphasizes that everyone’s journey is different and to remember, “not immediately, but eventually.” His story is a powerful reminder that perseverance, community support, and following your passion can lead to incredible things.
Mato is on track to graduate in June 2025 with his Bachelor of Social Work. He is focused on his passion for mental health advocacy and his ultimate goal is to return to his community as both a head basketball coach and a social worker, helping guide youth through their own mental health journeys. We couldn’t be more proud of the impact he’s making and the future he’s building!