Kaitlan Lyons

An enrolled member of the Turtle Mountain Band of Chippewa Indians, Kaitlan Lyons is the AISES Engagement Officer. In this role she will identify, develop, and engage top Indigenous STEM talent along with supporting AISES strategic initiatives, which involve both measuring engagement and sustaining connections with constituents.

Kaitlan is from Belcourt, N.D., or as she introduces herself in Anishanaabe, “Kaitlan Lyons nindizhinikaaz! Siipiising nindonjibaa!” (My name is Kaitlan Lyons. I am from Siipiising (creek that sings with life-giving water).

AISES has been an important part of Kaitlan’s life since she was a student, and she continued to participate in AISES events and STEM programs as a mentor and instructor. Prior to joining the AISES staff, she spent three years in public secondary schools as a mentor working with Indigenous youth to build achievement by engaging them in their studies, strengthening their resilience in the classroom, and involving parents in their children’s education.

Kaitlan earned an associate degree from Turtle Mountain Community College before transferring to North Dakota State University, where she majored in political science and benefited from an opportunity to study abroad. She graduated with honors and was inducted into the National Political Science Honor Society (Pi Sigma Alpha).

In her free time, Kaitlan enjoys travel, spending time with her dog, Lucy, and making Indigenous crafts. She has a passion for nature, learning about her cultural heritage, and supporting Indigenous youth.