Randy'L Teton Named Commencement Speaker

Teton is a prominent member of the Shoshone-Bannock Tribes of Fort Hall. She is most famously recognized as the ‘youngest and only living model’ to appear on U.S. currency, and was the inspiration for the image of Sacajawea golden dollar coin, first released in 2000.  She is a named expert in the Idaho Humanities Council’s America’s 250th Speaker Bureau. 

She was chosen for the honor by artist Glenna Goodacre in 1998 while she was a student at University of New Mexico. Teton became an ambassador for Sacajawea, traveling nationwide for years as a representative of the U.S. Mint, promoting the coin and sharing the historical significance of the Shoshone guide from a tribal perspective. 

“We are honored that Randy’L will share her experiences and knowledge with our graduates,” said President Robert Wagner. “Her unique perspective and dedication to education and cultural understanding is immeasurable.” 

Today, Teton is the award-winning author of the children's graphic novel, It’s Her Story: Sacajawea, which provides a tribal perspective on the historic journey of the Lewis and Clark expedition. She is dedicated to breaking down stereotypes and educating the public on both the historical and modern lives of Native American women.

Teton currently serves as the Tribal Communications Director for the Lomakatsi Restoration Project. Previously, she served as a Public Affairs Specialist with the U.S. Forest Service and the Public Affairs Manager for the Shoshone-Bannock Tribes.

She holds a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Art History with a minor in Native American studies from the University of New Mexico and an associate degree in museum studies from the Institute of American Indian Arts. Teton is a mother of three children and enjoys spending time with her family and enjoys collecting coins.