Chelsea is a member of the Yankton Sioux Tribe but her community roots are deeply embedded in the San Poil Valley on the Colville Confederated Tribes Reservation. Chelsea lives by the saying, “do something that scares you, that’s where confidence and identity grows”. Chelsea made Missoula, Montana her home right after high school in order to attend the University of Montana. Twelve years later, after building a family, career, and community in Missoula, Chelsea returned to her studies as a non-traditional student and working mother. A recent 2023 graduate, Chelsea holds a B.A. in Native American Studies from the University of Montana. Chelsea is passionate about higher education, Indigenous-led community based programs, and health equity.

Chelsea recently started a Masters in Public Health, specializing in Indigenous Health at the University of North Dakota. Chelsea is married to Aaron and share three young daughters, Laurel, Thea and Freya.