Lisa M. Kennedyis an enrolled Member of the Saginaw Chippewa Indian Tribewho takes a vision and makes it reality through sound strategy development. She intuitively sees the threads of opportunity that wind through an organization, brings them together into a coherent whole, helps others extend their thinking, and relies on the gift of viewing all matters through an indigenous lens. She is an inspirational leader who tells stories that inspire action, while at the same time, is grounded in the principles of public administration. Respected as a credible voice in decision making, Ms. Kennedyearns a seat at the table wherever she serves.
Currently, as Native Connections Project Coordinator for the SCIT Behavioral Health Program, a tribally‐held mental health and substance abuse treatment program, sheoversees the operations of a Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) 5-year grant, titled Native Connections. She is now spearheading major strategic shifts centered on the inherent value of cultural revitalization efforts to address issues challenging indigenous youth, family, and community that are centered on the issues of suicide, substance abuse use and misuse, and historical trauma.
Ms. Kennedyholds a Master’s Degree in Public Administration and Bachelor of Science from Central Michigan University. From a young age, sheunderstood the responsibility of service to her Tribal-community, and highly values living indigenous leadership, Indigenizing colonial constructs & organizational frameworks, and protecting indigenous knowledge and heritage.