Elyse V. Dempsey
Senior Capital Strategy Associate
I am a Diné woman. I was raised by a strong matriarch, my late mother, on the Diné Nation with three siblings. I am the fourth generation to caretake our family homestead in Tiiyeeł Ch’int’i (Oak Springs); and one of many generations to continue the traditional prayers and ceremonies of my people. As a sister, niece and aunt, I walk through the world grounded by the fireplace, my grandparents. I earned my B.A. in American Studies from Macalester College. I am currently a visitor on the lands of the Salt River Pima people (Scottsdale, Arizona).
Rooted in the Diné teaching of being in harmony with all things, I believe in creating a world that cares for our whole being. I have worked with Indigenous communities for over 10 years to shift and amplify our voices to be dominant within public narratives. I see this as critical work for the perseverance of all Indigenous people and our worlds that we cherish. My work as the Senior Capital Strategies Associate centers the lived experiences of Indigenous people and our approach to wealth building; specifically as it pertains to the creative exploration of Indigenous capital (including language, culture, teachings, histories, songs, etc. as well as monetary). As a survivor of childhood and adulthood domestic violence, I also center healing and peace in the creation of new, sustainable waterways of opportunity for Indigenous relatives.