Montoya Whiteman, a member of the Cheyenne and Arapaho Tribes of Oklahoma, serves as Managing Director of Editorial and Special Projects at AISES. In this role she oversees the organization’s editorial content and manages select initiatives that contribute to the reach and impact of AISES. With her deep cultural roots and professional expertise, Montoya brings important insight to her work, advancing AISES as a critical resource for Indigenous people in STEM.

Montoya’s upbringing in a family of leaders, teachers, and artists inspired her passion for advocacy. Her work at AISES channels her dedication to raising awareness about the transformative potential of STEM for Indigenous people and communities. In her role she empowers AISES members by showcasing STEM careers as a means of creating opportunities. Her belief in the power of collective advocacy is central to her approach, recognizing that when people unite to support one another, they can achieve remarkable outcomes.

Her leadership of the AISES History Project highlights her commitment to preserving and sharing the organization’s 50-year legacy. This initiative not only honors the elders and their vision, but it also educates members and friends about how AISES has shaped and continues to influence Indigenous representation in STEM. The project is a vital tool for understanding both the organization’s past and its future, ensuring its ongoing relevance and growth.

One of Montoya’s most gratifying responsibilities is working with a dynamic team to produce the Winds of Change magazine — an acclaimed print and digital publication with multiple awards from National Native media. Winds of Change is both an informative publication for AISES members and a channel for partners and organizations to engage with Indigenous STEM talent.

During her 28 years in Colorado, Montoya has cultivated a strong network across diverse sectors. She has made the most of opportunities to hone skills in communications, community building, management, and leadership — experiences that have enabled her to effectively engage with a diverse community, facilitate collaboration, and lead initiatives that create meaningful impact. Her role on the Indigenous Community Advisory Council at the Denver Art Museum reflects her commitment to amplifying Indigenous voices in cultural institutions, ensuring representation in the arts. Her position on the Special Collections Advisory Committee at the Denver Public Library highlights her dedication to preserving and promoting important cultural and historical resources. Additionally, Montoya’s volunteer work at the Rocky Mountain Arsenal National Wildlife Refuge and board position to the Friends of the Front Range demonstrates her broader interest in environmental education and wildlife conservation.

Montoya earned her Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration at Regis University. In addition to her academic achievements, she is an award-winning photojournalist, with work that spans a range of media platforms and highlights her ability to capture compelling narratives and powerful visuals. Her writing and images have been featured in print and video materials produced by local and national nonprofits, museums, television, and other media outlets including Visit Denver, CommunityComm, Keep It Colorado, Rocky Mountain PBS, Friends of the Front Range, the Cheyenne and Arapaho Tribal Tribune, and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.

In her free time Montoya enjoys activities that express her creativity and build ties with the world around her. In photography and fashion design she discovers opportunities to create through artistry and capture moments. She especially cherishes exploring new places with her rescue dog, Tazi. These personal interests bring joy while reflecting Montoya’s love for travel, discovery, and connecting with the people she meets along the way.