Wynette Whitegoat

I had the great honor of being named a Kathryn M. Buder Scholar in 2013.  Prior to the Brown School and becoming a Buder Scholar, I was uncertain of how I wanted to work with my people to make the most impact. Through courses and practicums in the Social and Economic Development concentration, my research interests grew in affordable housing, diabetes and obesity prevention, and mental health care in Indian Country.

While at the Brown School, I was a recipient of the Social Workers Advancing through Grounded Education (SAGE) grant. Through the SAGE grant, I completed my practicum field education requirements with the Washington University Center for Diabetes Translation Research (WU-CDTR), a center dedicated to working toward eliminating diabetes and obesity in low-income communities, including tribal communities. I had the opportunity to work with the National Congress of American Indians and Native researchers interested in diabetes and obesity research. At WU-CDTR, I supported staff in
developing policy briefs and was able to submit my first co-authored journal article.

In addition to being a SAGE recipient and Buder Scholar, I also co-chaired the annual
Washington University in St. Louis Pow Wow. My acceptance to the Brown School as a Buder Scholar created opportunities that will transfer into my career. For this, I am truly grateful to be affiliated with such amazing individuals who are working toward strengthening the well-being of our Native people.