BOARD: Whitnee Coy, Ed.D

Dr. Whitnee Coy is an educator, author, and community advocate committed to advancing educational equity, strengthening communities, and expanding opportunities for children and families. She serves as the Graduate Studies Department Chair at Oglala Lakota College, where she prepares future educational leaders and works to advance culturally responsive and Indigenous-centered leadership.

Dr. Coy earned an Ed.D. in Education Policy, Organization, and Leadership with an emphasis in Diversity and Equity, an M.F.A. in Creative Writing, an M.A. in Teacher Leadership, and a B.A. in Communication Studies with double minors in English and Women's Studies. Her work bridges educational leadership, communication, equity, and community engagement, with a focus on creating systems that empower historically underserved communities.

Beyond her work in education, Dr. Coy believes that equity extends beyond classrooms and into communities. She and her family operate a mutual aid Little Free Pantry grounded in dignity, trust, and reciprocity. The pantry provides free food, hygiene products, household essentials, baby supplies, and pet food to anyone who needs them—no questions asked. In just six months, the pantry has distributed more than 20,000 items, reflecting the power of community believing in one another.

Dr. Coy has served on numerous local and state boards in a variety of leadership and advisory roles, supporting initiatives related to education, literacy, community development, and children and families. She is also an award-winning author whose writing explores resilience, healing, and the transformative power of storytelling.

As a member of the Board of Directors for Friends of the Children – He Sapa, Dr. Coy is honored to support the organization's mission of breaking the cycle of generational poverty through long-term, professional mentoring. She believes every child deserves equitable access to opportunity, a sense of belonging, and trusted adults who help them realize their full potential.

Dr. Coy and her husband, a local educator and coach, are raising their three children, Ben (14), Elouise (12), and Sadie Miller (2), in the Black Hills. Outside of her professional work, she enjoys writing, creating stick-and-poke tattoos with her husband, and spending time with her family.