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Social Worker
Independent Contractor
Fort Thompson, SD, United States
Dr. Melita “Chepa” Rank, a member of the Hunkpati Dakota Tribe, is a dedicated social worker whose mission centers around holistic wellness and well-being within Tribal and Indigenous communities. Her work is driven by transformative and innovative best practices aimed at tackling the significant challenges faced by our communities knowing our people are a vital resource and asset. Dr. Rank’s impactful work includes integrated systems for wellness with the emphasize on cultural strengths as a pathway to wellness and well-being knowing our cultural traditions, customs, beliefs, and practices are the foundation to well-being and wellness. Dr. Rank champions the concept that community first responders are relatives who are critical in providing the help where needed utilizing skills gained through public health education programs.
Recognizing the alarming rates of suicide in Indigenous nations, Dr. Rank works tirelessly on suicide prevention initiatives. Her efforts aim to provide support, resources, and hope. Within Tribal nations, Dr. Rank advocates for services centered in physical, mental, and spiritual well-being that fosters a culture of overall wellness. A cornerstone value she holds at the forefront is utilizing a collective impact approach to improve health and utilization of data for programmatic decision-making.
Dr. Rank is a proud graduate of Head Start who earned her Doctor of Social Work from the University of Southern California. She resides on the Hunkpati Nation where she has been fortunate to raise her family and enjoy her grandchildren.
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Wičhózani-Wašté (Good Health and Wellness)
Friday, October 25, 2024
12:30 PM – 1:30 PM CT