Elyse V. Dempsey

Capital Strategies Associate

I am a Diné woman. I was raised by a strong matriarch, my late mother, on the Diné Nation with three siblings. I am the fourth generation to caretake our family homestead in Tiiyeeł Ch’int’i (Oak Springs); and one of many generations to continue the traditional prayers and ceremonies of my people. As a sister, niece and aunt, I walk through the world grounded by the fireplace (my grandparents). I earned my B.A. in American Studies from Macalester College. I currently live on the lands of the Salt River Pima people (Scottsdale, Arizona). 

Rooted in the Diné teaching of being in harmony with all things, I believe in creating a world that cares for our whole being. I have worked with Indigenous communities for over 10 years to shift and amplify our voices to be dominant within public narratives. I see this as critical work for the perseverance of all Indigenous people and our worlds that we cherish. My work as a Capital Strategies Associate centers the lived experiences of Indigenous people and their approach to wealth building; specifically as it pertains to the creative exploration of Indigenous capital (including language, culture, teachings, histories, songs, etc. as well as monetary). As a survivor of childhood and adulthood domestic violence, I also center healing and peace in the creation of new, sustainable waterways where capital can readily flow.