Denise Juneau, Jd Email and Phone Number

I have witnessed firsthand the powerful impact that quality education and political activism can make in historically resilient communities. My storied career in public service has focused on a central mission: combatting the tragedy of educational injustice, investing in opportunities for institutionally underserved peoples, and tearing down the pillars of systemic inequality. My family history is steeped in public education and public service. My father and grandparents worked in public school systems, and my mother founded the first alternative school and tribal college in our community. They brought home stories of students who suffered from lack of resources, funding, or understanding. More importantly, they advocated on those students’ behalf as representatives on the Blackfeet Tribal Council and the Montana State Senate. My parents instilled in me a lifelong commitment to blazing trails, claiming my seat at the table, making equitable decisions, and inviting new voices to the national conversation. Like my family, I taught in a rural reservation school, then I pursued a law degree so I could advocate for Indian tribes and tribal corporations. Finally, I devoted more than a decade to serving the public as a national education leader and big-city superintendent. My career includes many historic “firsts”: I am the first Native woman elected to statewide executive office, the first Native superintendent in Seattle, and the first “out” LGBTQIA federal candidate in Montana. I believe that the first step in driving change is sharing a compelling vision for our future. As a seasoned leader and motivator, I motivate teams to coalesce around that vision and align our strategy to overcome any obstacles in our path. I have been recognized with more than a dozen national awards. I am also a frequent keynote speaker, published author, and member of many organizations dedicated to improving the American public education system.