Cecelia Fire Thunder
Cecelia Fire Thunder is the Executive Director of Truth and Healing. She comes with a wealth of leadership experience as a nurse, artist, writer, and strong advocate for health and education in Indian Country, and made history as the first female President elected to the Oglala Sioux Tribe in 2004.
Cecelia brings a deep understanding of Maȟpíya Lúta's Truth and Healing initiative, having been involved as a member of the Community Advisory Committee from the early stages and having contributed to the collection of testimonies from former classmates and alumni. She holds a personal connection to her new role. "As a former student here, this is an opportunity for me to give back," she shared. Since assuming her position, she eagerly looks ahead, saying, "I am excited to delve further into our history, to continue learning from the archives, and, most importantly, to listen to more individuals who attended this school and learn from their diverse experiences—the good, the bad, and the ugly."