Shabrie Perico

Fort Sill Apache Tribe

Project manager | Travois

As a project manager, I work with Native communities to secure resources for safe and affordable housing. My strengths include attention to detail and a results-oriented drive to help others. I strive to use these skills to assist our clients in developing homes for their members. I find inspiration in those who help others, and the mission of Travois aligns with my values.

It's also always been important for me to recognize the accomplishments, sacrifices, and dedication of those who came before me. They paved a path for me to follow and helped guide me to where I am today. I am most proud of being a good sister, daughter, auntie, and relative.

Next, I'm most proud of my education, how I have used it and my lived experience as an Indigenous woman to serve Native communities. I earned my associate's degree in natural resources and a bachelor's degree in Indigenous and American Indian studies from Haskell Indian Nations University, followed by a master's degree in Native American studies from the University of Oklahoma.

Some quick facts: Only about 5% of Native Americans have attained a graduate degree, and fewer than 1% of individuals from foster care backgrounds achieve a master's degree. I beat the odds and am grateful for everything I have accomplished. Now, I hope to help others have even more opportunities than I had.

In the past, I served on the executive board of the Lawrence Community Shelter and worked with Big Brothers Big Sisters. I look forward to getting involved with the community again after recently returning to the area.