Aapiaq Cheryl Ongtowasruk
Iñupiaq
Indigenous Knowledge Researcher
Aapiaq is one of several Iñupiaq names Cheryl carries. She is originally from Wales, Alaska, and her family eventually moved to Nome. Her parents are Gerri and the late Ron Ongtowasruk. Her maternal grandparents are the late Vivien and James Olin, and her paternal grandparents are Arlene Soxie and the late Patrick Ongtowasruk. She currently lives in Anchorage with her husband and daughter, and they do what they can to stay connected to culture while living away from their region.
Cheryl has a background in elementary education and college admissions. She is passionate about ensuring Indigenous people have access to culturally responsive education and the information needed to make informed decisions on issues impacting rural communities. She is currently pursuing her Educational Doctorate at Loyola Marymount University.
