The Future of Work is Diverse, Inclusive, Just and Equitable

GlobalMindED closes the equity gap by creating a capable, diverse talent pipeline through connections to role models, mentors, internships for low-income students, returning adults, First Gen to college and inclusive leaders who teach them, work with them and hire them.
CEO of American Indian Science and Engineering Society is Indigenizing STEM: Meet Sarah EchoHawk

Sarah EchoHawk, a citizen of the Pawnee Nation of Oklahoma, has been working on behalf of Native people for over 20 years. She has been the Chief Executive Officer of AISES (American Indian Science and Engineering Society), an organization dedicated to Advancing Indigenous People in STEM, since 2013. Prior to joining in AISES, Ms. EchoHawk was the Executive Vice President at First Nations Development Institute. Previously, she also worked for the American Indian College Fund, and as an adjunct professor of Native American Studies at Metro State University of Denver. Ms. EchoHawk serves/has served on several boards and committees for multiple organizations and initiatives including the American Indian Policy Institute, Last Mile Education Fund, National Girls Collaborative, Native Americans in Philanthropy, Native Ways Federation, Red Feather Development Group, and Women of Color in Computing Research. She is also a member of the ad hoc committee at the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine for a project addressing the underrepresentation of women of color in tech and serves as PI/Co-PI on multiple National Science Foundation (NSF) grant funded projects. Previously, she served as an Ambassador for the U.S. Department of Energy’s Minorities in Energy Initiative. Ms. EchoHawk has a Master of Nonprofit Management from Regis University, and a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science and Native American Studies form Metropolitan State University of Denver.

What community-driven projects have you spearheaded/participated in that you
are proud of?

I build off my family legacy to bring attention to the matters and interests that are important to Indigenous peoples and their communities in supporting tribal sovereignty. A big part of my role as the AISES CEO is to indigenize STEM through the opportunities that are available at AISES and in other places. Not only is building pathways in STEM necessary for the future, but building networks and relationships are an important part of personal and professional growth. I enjoy talking about (and cheering on) changemakers and their examples of leadership in our rapidly unfolding future. Leadership can be transformative – for individuals, organizations, and entire communities.

The efforts that I am most proud of is bringing international attention to the educators, professionals, and organizations who represent Indigenous STEM. There is so much talent across Indian Country. The AISES family is so special! If I can impress upon others to see the world through a different lens that helps next generations succeed - then I have done my job. This is made possible by providing opportunities, strengthening connections, increasing investment in diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging, and helping others to advance on their personal STEM paths.

For example, AISES has the nation’s biggest College and Career Fair in Indian Country where careers have launched with a smile and a handshake. The College and Career Fair is a unique setting to witness the AISES mission in action – a dedicated community working for something we all believe in.

How do you connect with your ancestral roots professionally and personally?

I did not get to this position by a direct path. I am continually discovering myself on this journey. A critical part to being a leader is self-care. I do this by leaning into my family and elder network. It is a EchoHawk family tradition to visit Oklahoma for the annual Pawnee Indian Veterans Homecoming and Powwow celebration in summer. It is here that I reconnect with my cultural heritage and celebrate our nation’s rich history.

During the year, I regularly retreat to the Pacific Northwest. Washington and Oregon are places where I feel a strong connection with nature, water, and its people. They are powerful places of Native history and culture. The Pacific Ocean coastlines are stunning with a beauty in and of itself. It is here that power and elegance converge that wins my heart repeatedly.

As a leader, what motivates you to move forward in adversity?

At AISES, we work to increase the number of Indigenous peoples from North America and the Pacific Islands in STEM. Our work is so particularly important as one of the biggest challenges facing Indigenous people is invisibility. All too often, in conversations or initiatives about diversity, equity, and inclusion, Indigenous people are completely left out – as if we are invisible. We are relegated to the past in a romanticized version of what once was. Well, we are still here, and we must be visible. For those of you who want to be our allies, the most important thing you can do is to push for Indigenous people to be included in these conversations and initiatives. Therefore, I am thankful to organizations like GlobalMindED for including and recognizing our work at AISES. Thank you.

What do you see yourself doing in the future?

In the next five to 10 years, I see myself wholeheartedly supporting phenomenal Indigenous changemakers in my leadership role at AISES. My primary goal is to remain focused on turning the tides in Indian Country and meet the expectations that I find myself in when I am talking about STEM and the importance of diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging.

I see my ambition focused on the intersection of science and business and the importance of developing leadership in STEM because of technological advancements rooted in computer programs and applications. Other technologies like artificial intelligence, cloud computing, cybersecurity, and robotics over the next 10 year will continue to change our lives and workplaces. A skilled and educated workforce is needed to meet the robust growth in the digital economy. I see the Indigenous STEM workforce growing with access to world-class talent across major industries.
Sarah EchoHawk and Family
June 2022 Conference Summary in Photos and Videos
We had an inspiring conference in June after two years of virtual gatherings due to COVID. If you missed that, you can still be a part of the experience through the photos from the 2022 GlobalMindED conference, as well as seeing the complete program for connections and inspiration.



Video remarks:

Honoring the 2022 Inclusive Leader Award Winners. Please see their stories:

GlobalMindED | 303-327-5688 | contact@globalminded.org | www.globalminded.org
Stay Connected