Erin Thin Elk

Erin Thin Elk (Wanahca To Ka Heh Hinapah Win, First Flower that Blooms Woman) is an enrolled member of the Sicangu Lakota Oyate (Rosebud Sioux Tribe).  She earned a B.A. in English and a Certificate in Native American Studies (2002) and a MSW, Masters of Social Work (2004), both from the University of Iowa. Ms. Thin Elk holds a passionate commitment to healing, wellness and social justice for Indigenous children, youth and families.  Her professional experience includes community-based participatory research and evaluation, Indigenous healing to wellness courts, suicide prevention and postvention training and programmatic development, restorative approaches and peacemaking circles, and University teaching and educational outreach with Indigenous communities across the United States.  She currently serves with the Tribal Youth Resource Center as a Training and Technical Assistance Specialist working with Tribal Juvenile Healing to Wellness Court programs.