Cherokee Traditions Inspire Youth Diabetes Prevention Education in Oklahoma

Hayden Kingfisher: Educating on Diabetes Prevention through Cherokee Traditions

On March 27, 2025, it was announced that second-year medical student Hayden Kingfisher from Oklahoma State University College of Osteopathic Medicine at the Cherokee Nation is leading an educational initiative focused on diabetes prevention. As part of the Albert Schweitzer Fellowship, Kingfisher aims to incorporate Cherokee cultural practices into health education for students at the Cherokee Nation Immersion School.

Kingfisher, who grew up in Bossier City, Louisiana, has shared his formative experiences in the emergency room, stating, For some reason, I couldn’t figure out how to take my head and not slam it against something. His experiences left a lasting impression, inspiring him to pursue medicine and emulate the kindness he received from healthcare providers.

Having been motivated by previous fellowship participants, Kingfisher recognized the potential to serve his community through the program. The opportunities that have been poured into me by our people allowed me to pursue my dream of a medical education. With the students, we speak a lot about their opportunity to do the same, whatever that may be.

His health and wellness initiative focuses on preventative diabetes education and utilizes Cherokee traditions to engage students in learning. Each session incorporates visual, auditory, and kinetic methods, teaching in both Cherokee and English to promote healthy lifestyles.

Kingfisher remains inspired by the students’ enthusiasm, adding, I cannot express enough how impressed I have been with the students. They are an inspiration to me.

Recently, he partnered with Cherokee Nation Public Health to promote grant opportunities at the immersion school. They plan to introduce community meetings that will extend the health topics discussed with students to parents and faculty, aiming to enhance overall health literacy in the community.

Reflecting on his fellowship experience, Kingfisher said, Applying for the fellowship was one of the best decisions I have made. I encourage anyone who wants to better their community to look into applying.