Robert Yellowhawk Appointed Executive Director of Rural America Initiatives

By Rural America Initiatives, June 23, 2025We are proud to announce that Robert Yellowhawk has been appointed Executive Director of Rural America Initiatives (RAI), effective June 2, 2025. A lifelong advocate for Native youth and families, Robert has been with RAI for 15 years, beginning as a youth mentor in our Ateyapi Program which means fatherhood in the Lakota language. Over time, he served as a Program Coordinator and Business Manager, gaining experience across the organization before stepping into this new leadership role. His approach to leadership is guided by Lakota values such as being a good relative, compassion, humility, and service to community. Robert is an enrolled member of the Cheyenne River Sioux Tribe, a former Head Start student, and a proud husband and father of three. His personal journey reflects the impact of culturally grounded support systems like those offered through RAI. RAI currently serves Native children and families through Early Head Start and Head Start programs in Rapid City and Crow Creek, as well as a long-standing partnership with Rapid City Area Schools through the Ateyapi mentoring program. Robert’s professional path reflects a deep commitment to these programs and the communities they serve. This leadership transition comes as Bruce Long Fox steps back from his role after 35 years of dedicated leadership. Bruce now continues to support the organization as a Part-Time Consultant focused on Donor Strategy and Sustainability. His legacy of service, vision, and mentorship continues to guide RAI’s path forward. As Executive Director, Robert looks forward to building on that strong foundation, working with staff, families, and partners to further RAI’s mission of empowering Native children and families through culturally responsive education, mentorship, and community-driven programs.