Miah Maki of Keweenaw Bay Ojibwa Community College

Miah Maki came to Keweenaw Bay Ojibwa Community College (KBOCC) immediately following high school, but after a few semesters of modest performance, she withdrew to have a baby. Several semesters later, Miah returned, as a working single mother, to continue her studies. She now demonstrates a level of passion, dedication, and responsibility that wasn’t evident before. Miah often says that she works hard at college to set a good example for her young daughter. She submits homework on time, attends office hours when needed, and is very engaged in class activities (including serving as a leader in group tasks).

Miah is also dedicated to community service and learning as much as she can about her Anishinaabe culture. She is nearing completion of an impressive capstone research project examining community risks from extreme weather events. Miah is also employed full-time in the plants program at her tribe’s natural resources department, with frequent duties involving the removal of harmful invasive species. Miah is also very engaged in traditional activities such as fishing and wild rice. KBOCC is very proud of all of Miah’s contributions to the college and community.