Diana Cournoyer

Advisory Board Member

Diana Cournoyer (Oglala Lakota) is a transformational leader with more than 25 years of experience advancing Indigenous education, tribal sovereignty, and community-led change. As a former leader of the National Indian Education Association (NIEA), she expanded the organization’s reach nationwide, secured millions in grant funding, and strengthened partnerships supporting Native students and communities. A Pahara Fellow, Diana has testified before Congress and serves on boards including South Dakota Education Equity (SDEEC), Black Liberation Indigenous Solidarity (BLIS), and the Green Schools National Network (GSNN). She is also a dedicated mentor to emerging Indigenous leaders working to create lasting change across education, government, and philanthropy.