Her Story
About Dr. Bobbi Lynn
Dr. Bobbi Lynn Frederick, EdD, is an Indigenous education leader, scholar, artist, and advocate serving as the Vice President of Academic Affairs at United Tribes Technical College in Bismarck, North Dakota. A citizen of the Crow Creek Sioux Tribe of Fort Thompson, South Dakota, and raised on the Turtle Mountain Reservation in North Dakota, Dr. Frederick’s work is deeply rooted in Indigenous identity, community, and educational advancement. In her current role, she supports faculty development, academic initiatives, enrollment efforts, grant activities, and institutional partnerships while advocating for student success and culturally responsive education.
Dr. Frederick brings extensive experience in both tribal and Western educational systems, having served as a faculty member at Turtle Mountain Community College before advancing into higher education leadership. She earned her Doctor of Education in Educational Leadership and Innovation and her Master of Arts in Indigenous Education from Arizona State University, along with a Bachelor’s degree in Indigenous and American Indian Studies with an emphasis in Social Welfare from Haskell Indian Nations University. Her research and advocacy focus on Indigenous student perspectives, identity development, healing through Indigenous art practices, and the role of cultural connection in improving educational outcomes.
Beyond her academic and professional leadership, Dr. Frederick is a dedicated artist and cultural advocate who creates Indigenous-inspired artwork, clothing, jewelry, handbags, and powwow dance attire through her art practice, TaŠinaToWin. She remains actively connected to her cultural traditions through family, tribal communities, and participation in the powwow community as a fancy shawl dancer. Guided by compassion, empathy, and a commitment to empowering others, Dr. Frederick strives to create educational environments where students feel supported, respected, and inspired to reach their full potential while honoring their cultural identities and traditions.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Dr. Bobbi Lynn
01What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to the incredible support of mentors, professors, and leaders who believed in me during some of the most challenging times in my life. Their encouragement—including providing resources when I needed them most—and their authentic, compassionate leadership gave me the confidence to keep moving forward. Those experiences continue to shape the way I lead today, inspiring me to support and empower others with the same compassion and encouragement I was shown.
02What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I've received is to finish what I start, never let fear or obstacles stand in the way of my goals, and always stay true to my values. I've also learned the importance of advocating for myself, speaking up with confidence, and recognizing that self-care is essential to being an effective leader. Those lessons continue to guide both my personal growth and my professional journey.
03What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
My advice to young women entering this field is to believe in yourself and never underestimate what you're capable of achieving. Success comes from determination, resilience, and the willingness to keep moving forward despite challenges. Pursue what you're passionate about, stay committed to your goals, and trust that your perseverance will open doors you never thought possible.
04What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
One of the biggest challenges in my field is supporting students who face financial, family, and personal barriers while maintaining high expectations for their success. I see a tremendous opportunity to improve student retention and enrollment by creating systems that provide individualized support, foster accountability, and empower students to overcome obstacles. I believe the most meaningful impact comes from helping students build the confidence, skills, and resilience they need to achieve their goals.
05What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values that guide my work and personal life are faith, compassion, integrity, and a commitment to serving others. I strive to honor and preserve my Indigenous culture and traditions while leading by example for my daughter. I believe effective leadership is people-centered, recognizing that every individual has unique circumstances, and that the best decisions are made with empathy, respect, and a growth mindset.
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