BOARD: Ruth Cedar Face

Ruth Cedar Face is an enrolled member of the Oglala Lakota Tribe. Her Lakota name is Nagi Ksapa Win, which means Wise Spirit Woman. She has 32 years of experience working in substance abuse and mental health, serving adolescents, adults, and families.

Ruth began her career in 1993 as a Family Resource Supervisor with the tribal substance abuse program. In 1995, she earned her bachelor’s degree in human services from Oglala Lakota College and also received her Certified Addictions Counselor credential. Ruth has consistently worked in the field, providing direct services to her community. She has served on numerous boards representing the Native community and grassroots organizations. In 2012, she earned her master’s degree in Addictions Counseling from Grand Canyon University, following her practicum with IHS Behavioral Health. Ruth owns a private practice, Mahpiya Sinakiya Win Services (Cloud Robe Woman), and works full-time at Little Wound School as an addiction counselor. She is also certified as an ACE’s master trainer, among many other credentials. Ruth lives with her two sons, Sam and LJ, and her partner Sean in her hometown of Porcupine, SD, on the Pine Ridge Reservation.