Leadership Rooted in Vision and Community
Since stepping into her role as Executive Director, Sarah White has been a driving force behind the South Dakota Education Equity Coalition’s growth, impact, and unwavering commitment to Indigenous youth. Her leadership has not only strengthened our collective voice but also deepened our roots in community, culture, and justice. Through her vision, SDEEC continues to thrive as a powerful movement for educational equity across South Dakota.
National Recognition: Sarah White Named 2025 Native American 40 Under 40 Honoree
Sarah White’s leadership has not only left a deep impact here in South Dakota—it’s also been recognized nationally. In 2025, Sarah was named one of the Native American 40 Under 40 by the National Center for American Indian Enterprise Development, an honor given to emerging Indigenous leaders who are making powerful contributions to their communities and professions.
This recognition reflects the heart of Sarah’s work: bold, community-rooted, and committed to creating a future where Indigenous youth are empowered, seen, and celebrated. Her inclusion among this dynamic class of changemakers is a reminder that the movement we’re building together at SDEEC is part of something much larger—shaping the future of Indian Country with strength, vision, and purpose.
Fueling Change: Sarah White Named 2025
Boulder Fund Recipient
In 2025, Sarah White, Founder and Executive Director of the South Dakota Education Equity Coalition, was honored as a recipient of the Boulder Fund by Education Leaders of Color (EdLoC)—a national recognition awarded to visionary leaders working to disrupt inequity and transform education.
Sarah’s leadership has always centered the voices, strengths, and rights of Indigenous youth and families in South Dakota. This recognition from EdLoC is a powerful affirmation of the work being done at SDEEC to advance culturally affirming education grounded in the Oceti Sakowin Essential Understandings and Indigenous ways of knowing.
With support from the Boulder Fund, SDEEC is expanding its reach—deepening our advocacy, growing community partnerships, and creating spaces where Indigenous students are seen, heard, and honored.