Taryn Reynolds, MSL, THRP II

I attribute my success to perseverance, continuous growth, and the willingness to embrace new challenges. I began my career in tribal government at a young age and steadily advanced through various roles, eventually discovering my passion and expertise in human resources. That experience inspired me to further my education and continue developing as a leader. Overcoming my fear of public speaking has been a significant milestone, and I now find great fulfillment in sharing my knowledge and experiences through speaking engagements. I am currently pursuing a doctorate in strategic leadership at Oral Roberts University while balancing the responsibilities of being a mother of seven. With more than 15 years of experience in the field and four and a half years with REDW, I remain committed to lifelong learning, leadership development, and making a meaningful impact in the lives of others.

The best career advice I have ever received came from three influential women who have each played a meaningful role in my personal and professional growth. Cindy Helmer has been a trusted mentor and sounding board, encouraging me to navigate challenges with confidence and clarity. Dr. Andrea Hunter, Tribal Historic Preservation Officer at the Osage Nation, inspired me to pursue education in archaeology and broaden my understanding of cultural preservation and history. Kristen Haynes, my current leader at REDW, has encouraged my passion for consulting and helped me recognize the value of using my skills to support and empower others. Their guidance has shaped my leadership journey and reinforced the importance of mentorship, continuous learning, and embracing opportunities for growth.

My advice to young women entering my industry is to believe in themselves and remember that it is never too late to pursue their goals and achieve success. My own journey has shown me that it is possible to balance personal responsibilities with professional growth, as I was a mother while continuing my education and advancing my career. Embrace every opportunity to learn, seek out mentors, and remain committed to your vision, even when the path feels challenging. Receiving the Native American 40 Under 40 Award and completing the Leadership Native Oklahoma cohort in 2025 have been meaningful milestones that reaffirm the value of perseverance, resilience, and continuous growth. Success is not defined by the timing of your journey, but by your dedication, determination, and willingness to keep moving forward.

One of the biggest challenges and opportunities in my field right now is balancing continued professional growth with the many responsibilities of life. As a full-time professional, a PhD student, and a mother of seven children, I have learned the importance of resilience, time management, and prioritization. While balancing these commitments can be demanding, it also presents an incredible opportunity to strengthen my leadership skills, expand my knowledge, and bring a broader perspective to my work. This journey continues to inspire me to lead with purpose, embrace lifelong learning, and demonstrate that it is possible to pursue ambitious goals while making a meaningful impact both professionally and personally.

The values that are most important to me in both my work and personal life are resilience, service, authenticity, and the ability to inspire others through my own journey. I believe in the power of sharing my story to encourage others, especially those who may feel that it is too late to pursue their dreams. As a mother of seven who returned to school later in life, I have learned the importance of perseverance, determination, and embracing opportunities for growth. I am honored to serve my community as a member of NAHARA and the Osage Nation, as well as through my role on the Pawhuska Public School Board. Being invited to speak at the annual conference in Hawaii, receiving the Native American 40 Under 40 Award, and completing the Leadership Native Oklahoma cohort in 2025 have been meaningful milestones that reflect my commitment to leadership and community impact. Outside of my professional responsibilities, I value spending quality time with my seven children and supporting their passions in activities such as softball, wrestling, basketball, and FFA. My family, community, and commitment to uplifting others continue to guide everything I do.