Leading Future Leaders
Some people are born to lead. Dr. Monte Randall, citizen of the Muscogee Nation, Apekv-Tvlledegv Tribal Town and Deer Clan, is President of the College of the Muscogee Nation. He values his culture and heritage.
Dr. Randall began connecting with his traditional language and culture when he was a graduate student in Native American Studies at the University of Oklahoma. Before that, he served 4 years in the United States Navy, and pursued education at the University of Central Oklahoma, Seminole State College, Oklahoma State University, and Haskell Indian Nations University. He ultimately finished his education at Oral Roberts University with a doctorate in educational leadership.
Dr. Randall has a passion for leadership development and cultural knowledge, which he got to practice when he worked as an instructor at CMN full time while he was getting his degrees. He grew up feeling a heavy responsibility to do something. “It took learning my culture and language to find my purpose,” he said. Dr. Randall is making sure he passes on his tribe’s culture and language down to his children and future generations.
He does this by honoring his ancestors, specifically the women in his lineage: “That heritage – that linkage to our ancestors – is everything.” This is what drives Dr. Randall’s goals. And this is what drives tribal sovereignty in general. Dr. Randall emphasizes Native culture, values, language, and self-determination. Education is needed to elevate these stories and values. This includes language revitalization and putting yourself in traditional worldviews.
Now, Dr. Randall uses what he has learned to lead and educate others. He focuses on being present and being consistent: “We have to do what we say we are going to do.” Dr. Randall takes an opportunity to do this through his nonprofit organization, SONS Of Mvskoke. The goal of this organization is to develop Native American boys into responsible men, who will facilitate the prosperity of their nation.
Dr. Randall’s experiences and education has given him ways to fulfill that sense of responsibility he had growing up. He now mentors young boys that will be future leaders. With Native culture, values, language, and self-determination, Dr. Randall’s leadership is inspiring the next generation.
Native Narratives 