Roanhorse makes mark with summer internship

By Sararesa Begay
Diné Bureau

TSE BONITO — Olivia Roanhorse, daughter of Window Rock residents Roxanne and Leonard Gorman, got a reality check when she completed a Morris K. Udall Congressional Internship in Washington, D.C. this past summer.

"Thrown into the real world of politics and the legislative process was eye-opening," Roanhorse said, adding that there are numerous challenges when a bill becomes law. "It's daunting, but incredibly encouraging to see that effective change is possible and is happening for Native Americans."

The internships are established to provide Native American and Alaska Native students with experience in federal government legislative processes and decision-making.

From May to August 2006, Roanhorse served as an intern for the Senate Committee on Indian Affairs. She assisted staff with work relating to the Indian Health Care Reorganization and Improvement Act.

She also completed independent research titled, "Methamphetamine and Small Toxic Labs in Indian Country."

During 2005, Roanhorse received the prestigious Albert Schweitzer Fellowship, a community service fellowship for graduate students in health-related fields.

During her fellowship, Roanhorse gave information and referral services about breast health education and domestic violence to Native Americans in the Chicago area.

In addition to her numerous achievements, Roanhorse studied abroad attending the University of Dar Salaam In Tanzania.

She is currently a master's candidate in health policy and administration at the University of Illinois at Chicago. Roanhorse is planning a career in public health policy.

Roanhorse is To'ahanii, born for Todich'iinii. Her grandparents are Ruby and Daniel Damon Sr. of Window Rock. She earned a bachelor's degree in environmental science with an emphasis in biology from Colorado College in Colorado Springs, Colo. during 2000.

Sararesa Begay can be reached at venisondine@hotmail.com or by calling 505-371-5443.