Staff: Walt Swan, Jr.

Walt Swan, Jr. is a Mnicoujou Lakota, a proud member of the Cheyenne River Sioux Tribe. Walt’s career has been very rewarding working in education. He acquired his Bachelor of Science in Education from Black Hills State University, followed by a master’s degree in Educational Administration from Penn State University. His career in education includes performing in the roles of teacher, coach, principal, and superintendent. He has also served as a line officer on the eastern seaboard when he was responsible for the fiscal affairs of sixteen schools and programs from early childhood education to awarding college scholarships.

Walt is a cancer survivor. When Walt became ill, he started a company with his sons that has won state and national acclaim as one of the regions leading textile companies. Google, as well the South Dakota Small Business Administration, have recognized his company selecting them from over 58,000 businesses in South Dakota. Black Hills State University has recognized HeSapa Enterprises as an alumni-owned company. Walt has also kept himself busy by winning a seat on the Rapid City Area School District in his area by defeating four candidates. He continues to advocate for all children, with Indigenous students as his focus. He serves on several committees including the US Department of Education Office of Civil Rights Committee that deals directly with the manner in which the school district handles Indigenous students in truancy and student discipline.

Walt has also kept himself busy by winning a seat on the Rapid City Area School District in his area by
defeating four candidates. He continues to advocate for all children, with Indigenous students as his
focus. He serves on several committees including the US Department of Education Office of Civil Rights
Committee that deals directly with the manner in which the school district handles Indigenous students
in truancy and student discipline.