The AISES team is made up of passionate people striving to provide Turtle Island with Indigenous STEM knowledge, resources, programming, and events. Every individual contributes their skills and expertise to support the advancement of Indigenous students and professionals in STEM studies and careers. Meet one valuable team player who is focused on supporting student members, like you.

Shelly Dreadfulwater, Director, Chapter Engagement

What is your role at AISES and how does it impact members?

My role at AISES centers on building and nurturing meaningful relationships across a diverse range of stakeholders, including students, professionals, tribal communities, and PK–12 institutions. A key part of this work is serving as a bridge between these groups, fostering connections that strengthen the broader AISES community.

The entire Chapter Engagement team understands that a strong sense of community is fundamental to the success of our members. Over the past year, our team has taken on additional grants that directly support our members, creating opportunities that might not otherwise be available. These initiatives have expanded the resources, programs, and experiences we can offer, further empowering our members to thrive academically, professionally, and personally.

Above all, my primary responsibility is to support my team, ensuring they have the guidance, tools, and resources necessary to continue growing and advancing Chapter Engagement. Together, we strengthen our collective capacity to serve AISES members and propel the organization forward.

As college students continue to settle into their home away from home, what are some ways they can combat loneliness and homesickness?

I spent 18 years working on a college campus supporting students in exactly this way. Native students thrive when they feel connected to place, to community, and to one another. It’s important to have spaces where they can share laughter, build memories, and feel a sense of belonging. One of the most valuable steps a student can take is to “find their people” when they arrive on campus. For some, that community may be through Native student organizations like NASA or AISES. For others, it might be the drama club, the college band, or their athletic team. What matters most is having a space outside the classroom to continue growing personally and culturally. Within these supportive communities, students naturally develop as leaders whether through volunteerism, collaborating on student projects, or organizing events. These experiences not only strengthen their leadership skills but also nurture the sense of belonging that is so vital to student success.