Derek Ross

Wichita and Affiliated Tribes, Cultural Preservation Board Member 

Texas Native American Leadership Boards

Derek Ross Waco | wí:koʔ  joined the Office of Engaged Learning as Indigenous Scholar in Residence in Fall 2024 to be one voice for First American Sovereign Native Nations. He is an Elder of the Wichita and Affiliated Tribes, Waco Tawakoni Keechi. In August of 1859, two members of his family born in Waco; Tun-on-tah-sah-sis (female, b. 1855) and Ay-ha-dad (male b. 1855) were forcibly removed from their historic homeland to what is now Oklahoma. This understanding and familiarity Ross has of Waco Indian Heritage, Language and Culture fuels his interest in educating those willing to learn.

 One key focus for Ross is to encourage Indigenous people to pursue their academic path to impact their communities.

Thank you | so:ti:cʔa