Melanie Johnson, a proud member of the Sac and Fox Nation, serves as the Director of the Whole Child Initiative, a groundbreaking department within the National Indian Education Association dedicated to enhancing the well-being of Native students. Deeply committed to fostering collaboration, engagement, creativity, and innovation, Melanie brings extensive experience and passion to her role.
Beyond her work at NIEA, Melanie has been a dedicated advocate for nearly a decade, actively addressing critical issues such as underage drinking, non-medical prescription drug use, and suicide in American Indian communities. She serves as a mentor for AI/AN professionals, contributes to CADCA’s Indigenous Peoples Advisory Council, and is an active member of the Opioid Response Network Indigenous Communities Workgroup. Melanie also conducts training on SAMHSA’s Prevention Core Competencies, sharing her expertise to further support wellness and resilience in Indigenous communities.
In addition to her advocacy work, Melanie is a member of the Compassionate School Leadership Advisory Board and has co-authored a chapter entitled "Reclaiming the Brilliance of Native Youth" in the book "Leading with Vitality and Hope." Her contributions reflect her dedication to uplifting Indigenous voices and promoting positive change within educational settings. Melanie holds a Master of Education degree from the University of Oklahoma and is certified as a Substance Abuse Prevention Specialist (CPS), exemplifying her commitment to supporting wellness and resilience in Indigenous communities.
Raquel Ramos, a proud member of the Comanche Nation and descendant of Quanah Parker, the last chief of the Comanches, is an esteemed Prevention Specialist within the National Indian Education Association's Whole Child Initiative. With nearly a decade of dedicated service in the field, Raquel has emerged as a prominent leader in substance abuse prevention among tribal communities and Native youth.
Raquel's journey in prevention work began with the co-founding of the Community Anti-Drug Coalitions of America (CADCA) Indigenous People’s Advisory Council (IPAC), where she currently holds a position on the Steering Committee. Her unwavering commitment to innovative approaches has garnered her numerous accolades, including the prestigious 2019 "Preventionist of the Year" award at the Heartland Alcohol Substance Abuse conference.
Recognized for her groundbreaking programs that emphasize "Culture as Prevention," Raquel tirelessly strives to address the unique challenges faced by Native communities with culturally relevant solutions. Her collaborative efforts have forged partnerships with esteemed organizations such as the Southern Plains Tribal Health Board, leading to the receipt of the esteemed 2017 "National Exemplary Award for Innovative Substance Abuse Prevention Programs, Practices, and Policies."
In addition to these significant honors, Raquel's impactful work has been celebrated with the 2015 Oklahoma Drug and Alcohol Professional Counselors Association (ODAPCA) "Prevention Program of the Year Award." Through her tireless advocacy and unwavering dedication, she endeavors to bridge the gap between education and prevention, fostering holistic approaches that empower communities and promote wellness.
Furthermore, Raquel's commitment extends to her involvement with the Opioid Response Network DEI & Equity and Criminal Justice Video Project. She generously shares her expertise by providing training to CADCA and the National Coalition Institute, further amplifying her dedication to fostering positive change and resilience within Native communities nationwide.
Raquel Ramos remains a beacon of inspiration, steadfastly leading the way towards positive change and resilience within Native communities across the nation.