The Menominee Indian Tribe mourns passing of Former Tribal Chairwoman, Lisa S. Waukau

(Keshena, WI) ~ It is with great sadness that the Menominee Nation announces the passing of four-time Tribal Chairwoman, Lisa S. Waukau. A life-long educator, a published author, former Tribal Chairwoman Waukau, touched the lives of many Menominee, not only as a leader of the Tribe, but also as a history teacher with the Menominee Indian School District. Former Chairwoman Waukau began her journey to the spirit world on Saturday June 18, 2016, surrounded by her family at her home in Keshena, WI.

Upon hearing the news of former Chairwoman Waukau’s passing, Tribal Chairwoman, Joan Delabreau stated the following:

“The Menominee Nation has lost a extraordinary leader. We mourn the passing of former Chairwoman Lisa Waukau. Chairwoman Waukau was also known as “Nehaeqsnemetaemoh,” which translates to “A tree standing in the forest.” She was like that tree, strong, inspiring and honorable in her resolve. Her 18 year tenure serving the Menominee People was always bound by her conviction and for the betterment of the Tribe. She attended every meeting, voted on every issue, and fought many good battles. Her comprehension of issues and their impacts on the people stirred her resolve and she brought that same determination to every table. She exuded the air of diplomacy and was able to do battle from one issue to the next, while also maintaining friendly relationships with her peers and constituency. She will be greatly missed, but will live on in the memory of all whose lives she touched. On behalf of the Menominee Nation and Tribal Legislature, I offer sincere condolences to the family, friends, and many colleagues of former Menominee Tribal Chairwoman, Lisa Waukau.”

Former Chairwoman Waukau dedicated much of her life to the betterment of the Menominee Nation; beginning her 37 years of service as a professional educator with the Teacher Corps in 1977 at the Menominee Indian School District. Throughout her teaching career, she taught as an elementary school teacher, Junior High School levels. In 1981, she began teaching at the Menominee Indian High School, where she continuously taught Social Studies and Indian History & Culture.

In 1995, former Chairwoman Waukau was elected to the Menominee Tribal Legislature where she would eventually serve 18 years in Tribal Leadership and in many capacities of tribal leadership. She quickly ascended to the ranks of Leadership, having served 4 years as Tribal Secretary, 1 year as Vice-Chairwoman and 4 years as Tribal Chairwoman. June 20, 2016 MITW: Former Chair Lisa Waukau

During her time on the Menominee Tribal Legislature, Chairwoman Waukau was appointed to provide the tribal voice within many State and Federal venues. She championed issues for the Tribe concerning the recognition of Menominee Language, Culture and History Licensing with Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction, Gaming issues with the Department of Interior, Health Services, Children and Family Services. On the local forefront, Chairwoman Waukau held a long-standing appointment on the Tribe’s Kenosha Gaming Authority, Education Committee, Economic Development, Housing Committee’s and Elder’s & Youth Council. In 2009, she ensured that her legacy of cultural competency in teaching Native American students would be forever captured as she co-authored the book, “Teach Native American Across the Curriculum: A critical inquiry.”

Chairwoman Waukau’s uncanny ability to get the job done was a prevalent theme in every aspect of her life. Her diplomatic nature, charisma and wit served her well in many venues, whether it was the classroom, boardroom, or in consultation with local, State, Federal, or other Tribes. She used these as the vehicle to push many tough issues the forefront. Whether it was one issue or a multitude, she was often able to gain consensus among her peers to increase awareness, inspire change, and improve tribal conditions relating to health, education, public safety, and overall welfare of the Menominee people.

Visitation will be held at St. Michael’s Catholic Church, Father David Barrett Hall on Thursday June 23, 2016 from noon until 10:00 p.m. The funeral will take place at St. Michael’s Catholic Church in Keshena, WI on Friday June 24, 2016 at 1:00 p.m. Swedberg Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements.

In memory and honor of former Menominee Tribal Chairwoman, Lisa S. Waukau, all flags at Tribal facilities have been ordered to be flown at half-staff for a period of 10 days.