EMPLOYEE SPOTLIGHT: Terri Lee Medina
Terri Lee has been employed with Ho-Chunk, Inc. for just over 3 years. She was promoted to the role of Culture and Youth Education Coordinator on the Community Impact and Engagement team after starting as an intern with Human Resources.
➡️ Tell us more about yourself.
I am enrolled Winnebago from my mother’s side, and I am also half-Santee (Isanti) Sioux from my father’s side. My Hocak name is Ma-ku-sun-ga-win-ga (White Quill Feather)
➡️ What does your job as a Culture and Youth Education Coordinator entail?
I oversee four education programs for the company: the Summer Internship program, Ho-Chunk, Inc. Scholarships, Academic Development Program, and the Apprenticeship Program. I also assist the Training & Development team in providing companywide monthly culture awareness workshops.
➡️ Why do you feel working for a Native-owned company is important?
As a Winnebago Tribal member, I am grateful that the company has invested in me as an employee. It makes me work twice as hard at what I do because I want the company to continue to be successful. I have been given multiple opportunities such as furthering my educational goals, leadership trainings and promotions that I may not have been afforded in a non-tribal company.
➡️ How has Ho-Chunk, Inc. helped you grow?
Since I started working at Ho-Chunk, Inc., I have had many positive changes in my life both personally and professionally. I recently received my A.A. Degree in Business (May 2022) and I am currently attending college full-time at Wayne State College to obtain my bachelor’s in business administration (graduate May 2023). I plan to pursue my MBA and start classes in the Fall of 2023 at USD. I hope someday I will work in an administrative or executive position. Native women and men in leadership positions inspire me.
➡️ Now for the fun question! What do you like to do outside of work?
I enjoy spending time with my three children. My two girls are in volleyball this fall, so we are always on the go. I recently completed Leadership Siouxland, class of 2022. I volunteer in the community as much as possible as it is meaningful for my everyday work life.
