Skip to content

Nikki Santos

Executive Director, Center for Native American Youth, The Aspen Institute

District of Columbia

Nikki Santos (Coeur d'Alene Tribe) is the executive director of the Center for Native American Youth at the Aspen Institute, an organization with a vision for all Native American youth to lead full and healthy lives, be honored for the leaders they are, and have the resources and agency to create the world Native youth are worthy of and deserve. As executive director, Nikki works closely with the Board of Advisors, manages staff, and sets the vision, strategy, and priorities for the Center. Nikki oversees finances, manages the development of communications, advocacy, and programs, and is the lead in resource development, partnership development, and collaborative strategies. Nikki has worked on behalf of her people her whole life. Her biggest inspiration comes from her daughter, Aplnmarimn’tsu’tn (Carries the Medicine).

Your support turns hope into action

Donate to the Barack Obama Foundation.

The Barack Obama Foundation is registered as a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization (EIN 46-4950751).

More United States Leaders

More about the Leaders Program

A headshot of a young woman smiling at the camera. The young woman has olive skin and brown eyes. She has dark curly hair that hits her shoulders and is wearing a blue denim shirt.

Leaders

For emerging leaders who have demonstrated a commitment to advancing the common good.

Learn More
A person wearing a hoodie with the hood up is shown in profile, crouching down to light a candle. She is seen in profile in the glow of candlelight coming from dozens of votives surrounded by assorted flowers. A set of small votive candles are arranged in the shape of a heart near the person’s foot. Six heart-shaped red balloons float above the vigil.
  • The Center
  • Building the Center

Join other Obama alumni in coming together to support the naming of the Water Garden at the Obama Presidential Center in honor of the life and legacy of President Obama’s mother, Ann Dunham—as a gift for the President’s 61st birthday.

Learn more
placeholder
  • Defending Democracy
  • Leaders
Learn more
President Obama speaks on a panel. In the background is a board that reads, "CHICAGO." It is a bright blue color with the Chicago map on the right side.
  • Watch
  • Barack Obama

Watch President Obama share his vision for the Obama Presidential Center during a surprise visit with supporters and stakeholders—a vision for a public space that will honor history, help revitalize the South Side, and connect people throughout the communi

Learn more