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What year did you get your Sequoyah Fellow medal?
In 2018, I was gifted my Sequoyah Medal at the AISES National Conference in Oklahoma City, Okla. Receiving a Sequoyah Fellowship made me feel happy because my family give me my medal. There was an emotion that cannot be explained, but more felt. My grandparents, Cecelia, and the late Stanley Lucero, were the ones who gifted my medal on behalf of my entire family. I am grateful for an amazing family that supports my antics which includes my love for music, photography, film, science, or anything my mind decides to pursue.
How did you feel when becoming a Sequoyah Fellow?
Becoming a Sequoyah Fellow made me feel like I was accepted in a large extended family. It felt different because the other Sequoyah members – from all races – were there to accept me. AISES is very accepting of people. AISES has always been in my life especially with my family being so involved with AISES through the years. My grandparents are on the AISES Council of Elders and my mom, Shayai, began her own AISES journey in 1988.
Do you have any advice for young persons like you who are interested in learning more about AISES or who have an interest in becoming a Sequoyah Fellow?
My advice for pre-college students who are interested in AISES is – JOIN! Even if you aren’t completely interested in STEM (science, technology, engineering, math) fields, you can find American Indian/Indigenous people like you with similar interests who will help guide you on your AISES journey. Then, if you really enjoy AISES you can take the next step and become a permanent family member as a Sequoyah Fellow – like me.
Where do you live and what grade are you in school?
I am currently a junior at the Native American Community Academy in Albuquerque. Pre-COVID-19, I commuted daily from my home at the Pueblo of Laguna where I live. I am currently doing remote learning for the fall 2020 semester.
Are you focused on science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) in your pre-college studies?
I am currently not focused on a STEM career. While I do greatly enjoy chemistry, I am more focused on a music career. I would love to teach music, work as a guitar tech, or even have my own band. During the spring 2020 semester at NACA, I was a teaching assistant to the “NACA Rock” teacher. In this role I helped younger students practice their music. I also enjoy film and photography and I would love to also pursue these areas as I grow and focus on my future career.
Who is the biggest influence in your life?
The biggest influence is me. I believe that you must figure out who you want to become and to “do it shraamii” (Keres language meaning “correct”). We only live once. Discover what you are passionate about and push yourself towards your goals in life.
The Lucero-Fry family are AISES Sequoyah Fellows and you too, can join as a lifetime member! Visit www.aises.org/membership/life-time for more information.
To read about other Sequoyah Fellow Profiles in Leadership, visit: https://www.aises.org/profiles-in-leadership.
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