Guest Blog: Healing Ribbons Hires First Executive Director
This blog is guest-written by Kassie Mayo, Healing Ribbons
Two years ago, conversations amongst family and friends lead Tami Buffalohead McGill to start a small non-profit. Healing Ribbons is an Indigenous, women-led nonprofit that promotes healing, positive cultural identity, holistic wellness and connection among intergenerational Indigenous women and our families by sharing our collective wisdom, traditions, wellness practices and stories. Healing Ribbons focuses on healing by reclaiming our cultural heritages through sewing, beading, sharing circles, ceremonies and working together to create culturally significant clothing for use in traditional ceremonies, pow wows and community gatherings. Who knew that after two short years, we would already be hiring for an Executive Director! Healing Ribbons is delighted to announce the hiring of our very first Executive Director, Janelle Whipple, who officially began her role on August 26, 2024.
Janelle Whipple is a dedicated professional and scholar with a rich background in Native American education, leadership, and community service. Currently pursuing her PhD in Leadership Studies at Gonzaga University, Janelle holds a Master's degree in Tribal Administration and Governance from the University of Minnesota Duluth, a Bachelor's degree from the University of Nebraska Omaha, and an Associate’s degree from the Nebraska Indian Community College. Her academic journey reflects a deep commitment to Indigenous studies and leadership development, which she consistently applies in her professional endeavors.
As the former Native American Health Sciences Program & Student Services Coordinator at Washington State University, Janelle played a crucial role in developing and implementing programs that support Native American students in health sciences. Her responsibilities included creating budgets for programming events, running pathway programs, and advising future and current medical, undergraduate, and graduate students. Janelle's work extended to writing grants for student assistance, cultural events, and yearly programming, as well as collaborating with colleges to develop curricula that incorporate Indigenous medicine concepts.
Throughout her career, Janelle has demonstrated a strong commitment to empowering Indigenous communities. Her experience spans various roles, including management positions at the Ohiya Casino & Resort and leadership in educational programs such as the Santee Sioux Nation Head Start Program. Janelle's academic achievements are complemented by numerous honors and awards, including the Gates Millennium Scholarship, Shakopee Community Scholarship, and scholarships from Native Forward.
Her dedication is reflected in her accomplishments as Employee of the Year for Ohiya Casino & Resort in 2013 and 2014 and her recognition as Woman of the Year by the Santee Community in 2010. Active in professional organizations and community service, she continues to advocate for Native American education and cultural preservation, bringing a wealth of knowledge and experience to her role as the first Executive Director for Healing Ribbons. Welcome, Janelle!