"Zhaangodebwaanikwe indizhinikaaz. Waswagoning indoonjibaa. Migizi nindoodem. Hello, my name is Strong Hearted Lakota Woman, but in the Western world, I go by Celeste Hockings.
I am Oglala Lakota and Anishinaabe from the Lac du Flambeau, Wisconsin area."
Celeste Hockings began her working career with the Tribal Natural Resource Department for the Lac du Flambeau Band of Lake Superior Chippewa Indians (LdF Tribe) during the summers
of 2010-2014 as the Tribal Water Resource Intern. After graduating from University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point in May 2014 with a Bachelor of Science degree in Wildlife Ecology and
Management, she was hired as the Aquatic Ecologist/Data Manager under the Water Resource Program-Natural Resource Department. In 2016, Celeste was promoted to the Water Resource Program
Manager/Aquatic Ecologist until her newest promotion in December 2022 to the Natural Resource Director.
Celeste’s guidance in life is being able to protect, enhance, and provide clean and healthy water (and air and land) for all beings. During her time working for the Water Resource
Program, she has gained experience in multiple aspects that it takes to run an efficient and effective program, from water regulations and enforcements, to applying for funding and
assisting other Tribal programs and Tribal members, to working with multiple federal, state, and local agencies. Celeste also focuses on providing education and career opportunities
to local youth that have an interest in the Natural Resource Department. She recognizes that they are our future and will lead after she is gone.
Celeste can be reached by e-mail at CHockings@ldftribe.com.