The Institute of American Indian Arts (IAIA) respectfully acknowledges that it is located on the traditional Puebloan lands of the Tanoan and Keres speaking Peoples. We honor and thank them for their graciousness as stewards of the land.

The mission of the Institute of American Indian Arts is “to empower creativity and leadership in Indigenous arts and cultures through higher education, lifelong learning, and community engagement.” This mission is more than a statement. It is the driving force behind all that we do and the guiding principle for our dedicated faculty and staff.

STAFF

Recreational Assistant

Manuel Alejandro Gallegos

(AKA. Alex)

I was born in Aguascalientes, Mexico. I-been working in IAIA for more than 6 year I started as a janitor and met Mr. Steve, and he gave me the opportunity to become his assistant and now I have soccer coach and basketball coach as well as USA archery instructor level 1 coach and bike maintenance certifications. I love everything that we do in sports and recreation for the students. 

Student Activities Director

Stephan Swimmer

(Eastern Cherokee/Chippewa Cree)

I have been at IAIA for the last four years as the Student Activities Director. My Indian name is “De-la-ski-ske” meaning “taking steps” which is the title of my second book. I was born and raised in heart of the Great Smokey Mountains of North Carolina and currently live in Albuquerque, New Mexico. I am now a PHD candidate in Sport Leadership with an emphasis on Sport Coaching and Recreation Management. This has all accumulated over 40 years of sports experience at the recreational level, middle school level, and high school level, with endorsement in running, little league baseball, softball, basketball, lacrosse, soccer, archery and volleyball coaching as well as over 60 fitness certifications and over 20 years’ experience as a fitness trainer at various tribal fitness and recreational entities. I love impacting students in a positive manner by providing a safe learning environment that fosters a just have fun training philosophy.  

Meet the Student Team

  • My name is Tessema Meredith-Miller, and my cultural roots are from the Polynesian islands of Samoa. I am a Studio Arts Major in my third year at IAIA. I am the Volleyball Club President, and certified USA Volleyball Coach Level 1; I started playing volleyball in middle school. I am also certified by ISSA as a personal trainer and nutritionist. “ 

    Fa'afetai Lava, 

  • Hello, my name is Kalynn Largo. I am from the Navajo Nation located here in New Mexico. I am majoring in studio arts with an emphasis in painting. I am in my second year here at IAIA. I have experienced many sports throughout my journey, those including volleyball, basketball, softball, as well as track and field. I also love a good challenge and am working on completing the Leadership task book. Come join the fun at the SUB!  

  • My name is Kaydee Mike. I am from Buffalo Springs and now living in Santa Fe. I love being active daily and am always excited to learn new skills/sports. I have been in sports since I was young. My goal here is to learn more about archery to teach other people like me while learning along the way. I am working on my Level 1 Archery coach certification with USA Archery and the current Archery Club president. I believe sportsmanship is important in spaces like these, especially when working in the gym. I can't wait to work with you!

  • Hello, my name is Cipriana Castillo, I am Quechua and Mexican. I was born in New York and then moved to Texas when I was seven and lived there until I attended IAIA. I was majoring in Cinematic Arts however I changed it to Creative Writing with a minor in Cinematic Arts. I am currently working on my Zumba Instructor certification. I will be entering my junior year here and am the current president of the Women's Wellness club. 

  • Hello, My Name is Ayden Spears. My Indian name is T’a Nagi Wašake (His Strong Spirit). I am from Pierre, South Dakota. I am Lakota. I study Studio Arts here at the Institute of American Indian Arts with an emphasis in Editing and Film making. I have experience in editing and acting. I currently am the vice president of the IAIA Weightlifting Club and completing the Leadership task book which all ties into my goal to teach students about weightlifting and how it can be a benefit for mental and physical health.