Native Forward Scholars Fund

Meet Bentlee Falcon, our May Undergraduate Student of the Month! 👏

A member of the Turtle Mountain Band of Chippewa Indians of North Dakota from Belcourt, North Dakota, Bentlee is pursuing degrees in Land Management, Biology, and Natural Resources at Turtle Mountain Community College, where he maintains a 3.81 GPA and has earned Dean’s List honors.

Bentlee’s journey is rooted in leadership, service, and environmental stewardship. As he shares, “I continue to be challenged, I overcome them throughout my daily life. I show generations how important our environment is to keep going.”

A dedicated advocate for his community, Bentlee has volunteered through Tribal Youth Summer Programs, contributed to community initiatives focused on public health, housing, and cultural preservation, and currently serves as Vice President of Student Council. He is also the first student in his region selected for the Bureau of Indian Affairs Pathways Program, where he works and learns in land and natural resource management.

Bentlee’s commitment to creating positive change extends beyond the classroom. From helping secure funding for his college’s first archery program to advocating for environmental protection and community improvement, he continues to use his voice to uplift others and strengthen his Nation. Congratulations on your accomplishments, Bentlee!

Celebrating our May Graduate Student of the Month, Jeremie Allen! 👏

A citizen of the Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma from Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, Jeremie is pursuing a Doctor of Education in Administration and Leadership at Southern Nazarene University, where he maintains a 3.77 GPA.

Jeremie’s journey is grounded in service, mentorship, and empowering the next generation. As he shares, “My pursuit of education is not solely for myself, nor is it only for my family. It is for my community.”

As a Special Education teacher and coach within Oklahoma City Public Schools, Jeremie works daily with students from high-poverty backgrounds, providing academic instruction, behavioral support, and mentorship. Through coaching football and track and field, he uses athletics as a platform to teach discipline, accountability, teamwork, and resilience while helping student-athletes prepare for success beyond high school.

Having returned to the same community that shaped his own upbringing, Jeremie is committed to helping students overcome barriers and recognize their potential. Through education, coaching, and advocacy, he continues to create opportunities for underserved youth and demonstrate the power of perseverance, leadership, and service. Congratulations on your accomplishments, Jeremie!