2024 NPTEC Candidate – SEAT 3: Nikesa Aubertin
Name: Nikesa Jo Aubertin (Ellenwood)
Children: Huntyr Aubertin, Klayton Aubertin, and Aaren Aubertin
Parents: Kevin “Kub” Ellenwood Sr. and Susie Ellenwood (Penney)
Siblings: Kevin “Littlefoot” Ellenwood Jr. (Late), Ira Ellenwood, and Rachel “Chedda” Wilson
Grandparents: Steven Ellenwood and Rachel Jackson, Ira Penney, and Fred and Josephine “Joann” Jose (Samuels) (all Late)
Education: High School Diploma- Lapwai High School 2010, Associate of Arts and Sciences- Northwest Indian College 2019, and Bachelor of Native Environmental Science 2022. Some coursework in Master of Environmental and Natural Resource Sciences- Washington State University 2023 and 2024.
Experience: I have experience working with children as a teacher at the formerly Early Childhood Development Program, oncology patient care at SJRMC, Assistant Civil Officer and Administrative Assistant at the Nez Perce Tribal Police Department, and recent internship experience with the Nez Perce Tribe Executive Direction Office and Nimiipuu Energy. Throughout my work experiences and education, I have gained leadership skills, ability to research and read materials, preparedness, and importance of systemic change.
What do you hope to bring to the NPTEC Table: I hope to represent all tribal members and maintain an openness to issues and solutions that will benefit our membership. I hope to be a collaborative individual while maintaining a voice for our membership. I will also support the process of change to bring our tribe forward. I also hope to be a protector of the Nez Perce Tribe, our Treaty Rights and voice concerns for any injustices. I also hope to bring fresh insight on issues from the present and past that haven’t been resolved or should be revisited.
What issues are important to you: Important issues to me, include environmental sustainability, enrollment solutions and the future of the Nez Perce Tribe’s membership, and seek solutions to create financial stability to all tribal members. Another issue important for me includes moving the tribe forward as technologies have improved and gives opportunity for growth.