Dr. Cynthia Lindquist, Spirit Lake Dakota Tribe, whose Dakota name is Ta’sunka Wicahpi Winyan (Star Horse Woman), has joined the American Indian College Fund as chief strategy officer. Dr. Lindquist holds a doctorate in educational leadership from the University of North Dakota and a master’s degree in public administration from the University of South Dakota. She served as president of Cankdeska Cikana Community College (CCCC) for 21 years and previously sat on the College Fund’s board, making her familiar with the organization’s work. Under her leadership, CCCC’s physical campus quadrupled in size; student enrollment, persistence, and completion rates more than doubled; and 20 years of audits were conducted with no findings. She also oversaw the transition of managing the Spirit Lake Tribe’s Head Start and Early Headstart programs.

Most recently, Dr. Lindquist was director of tribal initiatives and collaborations at the University of North Dakota. During this time, she led the drafting of a tribal consultation policy that will be implemented by the university in the spring of 2026. Her other leadership roles include being a founding member of the National Indian Women’s Health Resource Center and a fellow with the Bush Foundation Leadership initiative. She currently serves as chair of the North Dakota Ethics Commission and is a member of the Bush Foundation board of directors.

Dr. Lindquist brings her extensive knowledge, experience, and leadership to bear in the role of chief strategy officer. She will facilitate collaborative activities and tribal college and university engagement. Her work in partner relations will support the organization’s strategic goals.

Dr. Lindquist said, “I am so excited to be joining the American Indian College Fund family and to be part of a team of creative, dedicated people! I hope to contribute to strengthening and building relationships. I look forward to supporting the tribal colleges and the success of Native students pursuing higher education.”

American Indian College Fund president and CEO, Cheryl Crazy Bull, said, “I am honored to join my team and the TCU community to welcome Dr. Lindquist to the College Fund. Her lived experiences are invaluable to our continued success and to the growth we are experiencing in service to our students and their families. We look forward to her leadership and contributions.”