A rising junior at Willamette University, Keelin Rice is studying for her bachelor's degree in Politics, Policy, Law, and Ethics with a minor in Environmental Science. Keelin's passion for Indigenous rights and the recent Indigenous Land Back movement have inspired her to seek a career practicing environmental law after she graduates.
"With every election, the land that the nation once fought so hard to protect continues to be auctioned off to the highest paying lumber or oil company. Since I am interested in law, I have a natural calling to do something about it", says Keelin.
As one of this year's awarded Koniag Angayuk Intern and Scholarship recipients, Keelin has shared her excitement about traveling to Anchorage and Kodiak to start her internship in May. She plans to learn as much as possible and spend time with her Kodiak family, which has been on the island for many years. Keelin shared that her great-grandfather, August Heitman established a fox farm on Long Island following the Katmai Eruption. As a tribal citizen of the Sun'aq Tribe, she continues to strengthen her immediate family's relationship with the island.
Keelin's advice for fellow students?
"Do your best, even if it doesn't result in a perfect score. As long as you do your best, you have every right to be proud in your work and of yourself."
KEF is inspired by Keelin's passion for advocacy and can't wait to see what she accomplishes next.
