Summary
Gaylene Williams is Numu-Kooyooe Tukadu (Pyramid Lake Paiute), from Pyramid Lake, Nevada. She earned her undergraduate degree in Elementary Education from the University of Nevada, Reno and master’s degree in Language, Literacy, and Sociocultural Studies from the University of New Mexico. Upon returning to Nevada, she taught multiple grade levels at a public school situated within the boundaries of a reservation.
Prior to her current role as Tribal Academy Program Coordinator, Gaylene served as a Youth Coordinator for UNR Extension Tribal Programs. She also worked as a Program Coordinator with the Nevada First-Gen Network where she collaboratively supported 27 stakeholders across the state to expand access and support for first-generation college students. Additionally, she contributed to the Native American Enhancement Project for the Nevada Department of Education, which sought to enrich students’ understanding of Nevada’s tribal communities. During her time with the Reno-Sparks Indian Colony Education Department, she supported community members through comprehensive wrap-around services which promoted success in education, training, and workforce development.
Currently a Ph.D. candidate in Educational Leadership, Gaylene maintains strong ties to her language and culture. She believes education is essential for Indigenous communities to sustain their sovereignty and right to self-determination.