Submitted Photo Student ambassadors, from left, are: Elena Rodriguez of Mandan, Hidatsa, and Arikara Nation, Nykesha Nez of Navajo Nation, Kianna Pete of Navajo Nation, Alton Byrd of Yakama, Ashley Balletto of Big Valley Band of Pomo Indians, Major Elliott of Wampanoag Tribe of Gay Head, Niagara Rockbird of Navajo Nation, Aiyanna Tanyan of Seminole Nation of Oklahoma, Joseph Morales of Tohono O’odham Nation, Sasha Derenoff of Tlingit, Christopher Eagleton of Karuk Tribe and Memory Long Chase of Standing Rock Sioux Tribe.

DENVER – The American Indian College Fund announced it has named Elena Rodriguez with the Mandan, Hidatsa and Arikara Nation among its 12 student ambassadors for 2025-26.

Student ambassadors are Native scholars and rising leaders who use the education and opportunities they’ve gained to give back to their communities. The newly selected student ambassadors will use their skills to help their home communities and raise awareness and understanding of American Indians and Alaska Natives and cultures during Native American Heritage Month and year-round.

Rodriguez earned a bachelor’s degree in environmental studies from Sitting Bull College, Fort Yates, and is attending the University of North Dakota in Grand Forks to pursue a master’s degree in geological engineering. According to the College Fund, Rodriguez hopes her work as a student ambassador will give her stronger presentation and public speaking skills to share the importance of tribal education, scholarships and other valuable resources that help Native youth grow into successful community leaders.

Student ambassadors will attend a multi-day training program in Denver, where they learn about leadership development, public speaking, interviews, writing and social media to speak on issues impacting Native communities.