Crystal Lepscier
Indigenous Education Activist/Artist
As an Indigenous Scholar in the field of education, I have gained a deeper understanding of the 4R's (Respect, Responsibility, Reciprocity, and Relationships) which help to serve as a guide for practices grounded in cultural pedagogy.
My Story
Little Shell/Menominee/Stockbridge-Munsee
Since starting in the field of Indigenous education (K-16), I have gained valuable insight through connections and experiences within professional, volunteer, and personal experiences. The culmination of these opportunities has led me to understand education as a prominent means of advancing the dialogue for Indigenous communities.
Past Experience
Past Roles
First Nations Student Success Coordinator, University of Wisconsin - Green Bay
May 2020 - June 2023
In this role, I work to serve all self-identified American Indian students on campus. This work ranges from one-on-one holistic advising to helping guide training for Faculty around Indigenous centric topics.
Associate Lecturer, University of Wisconsin - Green Bay
May 2018 - January 2022
I am responsible to instruct various First Nations Studies courses online as needed by the department. I have been honored to teach both Introduction to First Nations Studies: The Tribal World and Introduction to First Nations Studies: Social Justice offered online.
HR Training/Compensation Specialist, Menominee Indian Tribe of Wisconsin
May 2018 - May 2020
My primary responsibilities included employee training and engagement, title review and compensation. My most impactful project included connecting with local tribal Human Resources groups, visioning and facilitating the 'HR Intertribal' group
Academic Experience
My Studies
A good education is a well-rounded one. When it comes to learning, I know that this is not just restricted to traditional academic institutions. As a professional in my field, I have had the opportunity to learn from all kinds of sources, including mentors, colleagues and even from those who are not in my field at all. All of this has helped me become the person I am today, which is why I hold it in such high regard. Want to know more? Get in touch with me today.
Education Doctorate, University of Wisconsin - Green Bay
Fall 2018 - Spring 2022
I completed my doctoral studies in the First Nations Education Doctorate (FNED) program at University of Wisconsin - Green Bay. My dissertation proposal focused on the development of a model to combat Racial Battle Fatigue in our Indigenous student population.
Master of Science, University of Wisconsin - Madison
Fall 2009 - Spring 2011
Through the renowned School of Education at UW-Madison, I earned my M.S. in Educational Leadership and Policy Analysis (ELPA). My research focus for my capstone project was the retention and recruitment of native students at a Predominantly White Institution (PWI).
Bachelor of Fine Arts, University of Wisconsin - Madison
Fall 2000 - Spring 2005
I earned my Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) degree in Studio Art with a focus on painting. In this program, I learned many different art practices and honed my understanding of imagery impact and constructive critique.
My Skillset
Competence & Aptitude
Respect
I find that respect is a vital skill on all accounts, and at it's base helps me to make important connections with individuals.
Responsibility
I find that I have a heightened sense of responsibility when it comes to social justice, education, and Indigenous issues. I consistently work to uphold these responsibilities in the spaces where I can make a difference.
Relationships
Paramount in the space of Indian Education, we must center relationships and keep them at the forefront of this work. They are what connect and inspire us to continue pushing for justice.
Reciprocity
As an Indigenous person, giving is an intrinsic cultural value. I seek to give more times than I would take, and reciprocate anything that is shared through community.
Vine Deloria, Jr.
“Every society needs educated people, but the primary responsibility of educated people is to bring wisdom back into the community and make it available to others so that the lives they are leading make sense.”