The University of Wyoming Foundation and the Chief Washakie Foundation are hosting their 2025 Native American Scholarship and Awards Ceremony to celebrate the achievements of Native American students. Honoring student’s dedication to academic excellence and contributions to their communities, it will recognize the generous donors who have supported these students in their educational journeys.
The evening includes a formal dinner, guest speakers, and the presentation of awards. This is an opportunity to come together in celebration of student achievement and donor generosity.
Chief Washakie Distinguished Leadership Award Recipient and Closing Speaker:
Christian Wassana, an enrolled member of the Cheyenne and Arapaho Tribe, will be awarded the Chief Washakie Distinguished Leadership Student Success Award. This prestigious honor recognizes individuals who have demonstrated exceptional leadership and success in their careers and communities.
Christian’s journey is an inspiring one. A former high school and college basketball player, he earned his business degree from the University of Oklahoma before forging a successful career in the TV and film industry. Notably, he has worked as a director’s assistant and actor, with one of his most recent projects being Paramount Network’s Yellowstone.
Beyond his work in entertainment, Christian founded the motivational movement “I Am, I Can, I Will”, which seeks to inspire and uplift others by sharing his story of perseverance and success. Through his speaking engagements, he has touched the lives of many in various communities, schools, and colleges, providing valuable insight into how to overcome challenges and achieve success.
Christian’s leadership and dedication to empowering others make him an excellent choice for this award, and his story is a powerful example of how Native American youth can make a difference.
A Unique Opportunity for Students:
The evening is a rare opportunity for students to meet Christian and learn more about his remarkable success story. Christian’s journey, from his roots as a student-athlete to his accomplishments in the entertainment industry and his commitment to inspiring others, offers valuable lessons in resilience, hard work, and self-belief.
Students will gain insight into how they, too, can achieve their goals, overcome obstacles, and make an impact in their own communities. Christian’s experiences will surely motivate and encourage students, particularly those pursuing their own academic and professional dreams.
This event is about awarding scholarships and student success. It is a celebration of academic achievement, leadership, and the community’s commitment to supporting Native American students.