Autumn leaf Spears, '08 MHA

Health and Human Services Director, Narragansett Indian Tribe, Charlestown, RI

Mission: to raise health standards for her tribal community

Autumn leaf Spears says growing up one of 12 children in the Spears household meant often going without material things. But she's quick to point out that she never went without the important things. "We never lacked for love. I always had a sense of family and belonging."

Spears belongs to an even bigger family — the Narragansett Indian Tribe, which comprises the original descendants of the State of Rhode Island. "I grew up very much a part of the Narragansett Indian community. The Native American culture was central to my childhood. I attended powwows and other traditional ceremonies and meetings. My family was and still is active in our tribe."

Spears currently works as director of health and human services for the Narragansett Indian Tribe in Charlestown, RI. She's held numerous positions for the tribe since she graduated from high school, including accountant assistant, administrative assistant to the tribal chief, and director of social services. Working and serving her community is central to who she is. "It's hard to imagine my life any other way."

After graduating from high school, Spears was determined to further her education. She secured her associates degree from the Community College of Rhode Island where professors there recognized her motivation and drive. They encouraged her to apply to Brown University; there she completed her bachelor of arts in health and society.

"When I accepted the position as director of health and human services for the tribe in 2001, I felt that getting my masters in health care administration would be an asset and would help me to better serve my community, but my job is demanding and I knew I would need to go back part time."

"Simmons offers me the flexibility I need and the training I desire. There has not been one class I've taken that I haven't immediately applied what I've learned into my work. My mission is to raise the level of health to the highest possible standards for my tribal community. Simmons is helping me do that."