Dave Archambautlt returned home to become fully involved in business and tribal government.

Age: 36

Position: Standing Rock Tribal Council Member At Large; small business owner � Cannon Ball Pit Stop

Family: Wife, Nicole Thunder Hawk; daughter, Jaimie Archambault (14), son, Jayce Archambault (8)

Hobbies: Gardening, horses and exercising

Community involvement: Standing Rock Equine board member, Mor-Gran-Sou Electric Coop board member, Cannon Ball Running Club

Career path: After graduating from North Dakota State University with a bachelor’s in business administration, I returned home and worked for Sitting Bull College as the director of the tribal Business Information Center, providing assistance to community members interested in going into business. After attaining a master’s in management from the University of Mary, I continued my employment with Sitting Bull College as business administration instructor and developed the bachelor’s business degree program and assisted in the development of Standing Rock Equity Loan Fund. Purchased a small convenience store in Cannon Ball and became self-employed, exploring other business opportunities such as Lakota Native American Herbal Formulas. While selfemployed, coached Standing Rock High School boys varsity basketball. Returned to Sitting Bull College as an Institutional Research Director and am now a member of Standing Rock Tribal Government.

Mentors: Betty Archambault (mother) was my fi rst teacher in life. She taught me the importance of family and spirituality, two essential life components. Big Dave Archambault (father) has always taken risks to make life better for others within Indian Country. The late John Thunder Hawk, who had a huge smile and knew how to make people feel good. John always took on responsibility and never let anyone down. He taught me how to work with my hands.

What motivates you? My vision of success and taking a risk

What’s the biggest risk you’ve ever taken? Most individuals are comfortable with security. They fi nd jobs that have steady incomes and live their lives routinely. These are the same individuals that will have a great idea or a solid vision but will never take the risk because it may expose them to failure or no security. In order to take the risk you have to ask yourself “what is the worse thing that can happen?” As long as you can maintain your family and believe in a higher power then the risk is greatly reduced.

My Risks: Purchasing a small business � coaching � running for elected positions.

Motto: Knowing what you want and fi guring out how to get there

What do you see yourself doing in 10 years? Because I am really new to politics, I can’t answer that. I’m still not sure if my journey will lead me into more politics or if I return to private business development.

What advice would you offer 2008 college graduates about the possibilities of staying in North Dakota to further their careers and lives? There is opportunity all around you. Create a vision and stick with it.