IF YOU KNOW ME, YOU KNOW MY STORY

Hi, I Am Dr. Kelly.

My Lakota name is

Mato Waste Winyan (Good Bear Woman)

Dr. Kelly Sherman-Conroy, a proud member of the Oglala Sioux Tribe, is a storyteller, poet, philosopher, pastor, lover of all art forms, and a devoted mom. Her journey has made her a beacon of inspiration and change within the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America (ELCA) and beyond. As the first Native woman to earn a PhD in theology within the ELCA, Kelly has paved the way for future generations of Indigenous scholars. Deeply rooted in Lakota spirituality and the wisdom of her ancestors, her unique theological perspective blends Indigenous spirituality with Christian teachings, offering paths of healing and reconciliation that resonate across cultures and faith traditions.

Kelly’s work spans many fields. She teaches in the Religion Departments at Augsburg University in Minneapolis and St. Olaf College in Northfield, MN, where she leads students in discussions on social justice, racial reparations, and the role of spirituality in social change, always through the lens of Indigenous wisdom. As a pastor at All Nations Indian Church in Minneapolis, she provides spiritual guidance and leadership to her congregation, offering a safe space for spiritual growth and community building.

Kelly is also the convener of the Twin Cities Interfaith Movement Chaplins, having trained over 400 chaplains since the movement’s inception during the uprisings following George Floyd’s murder. Her leadership in this role has been instrumental in bringing together faith leaders from diverse traditions to serve the community during times of crisis, fostering healing and connection. Additionally, Kelly serves on the executive board of the Minnesota Council of Churches, where she continues her commitment to advancing justice and inclusivity.

As a liturgist, Kelly creates liturgies for significant global and national events, including the World Council of Churches and the ELCA’s Indigenous People’s Celebration, bridging Indigenous traditions with the Christian faith in a way that honors both.

Her advocacy work is extensive, serving on numerous boards and councils to uplift marginalized voices. She is also actively engaged with the Minnesota Urban Indian Directors (MUID), where she works to address key issues affecting Native communities.

One of Kelly’s passions is educating others about the sacredness of the land. She helps lead sacred site tours around the Twin Cities, inviting people to connect with the historical and spiritual significance of the land from an Indigenous perspective, fostering respect for Native history and presence.

Recently, Kelly co-authored a book that reflects her teachings on spirituality, healing, and justice. Known for her warmth and humor, she effortlessly brightens even the most difficult conversations, balancing serious discussions with moments of laughter, making her both a respected and beloved figure in her community. Her ability to speak her truth with compassion and understanding resonates deeply with all who meet her.

Kelly’s influence extends beyond the local community. She travels nationally and internationally, sharing her wisdom on healing, justice, and spiritual connection with audiences around the world. Whether speaking, writing, or leading worship, her message remains clear: we are all interconnected, and when we honor that sacred connection, we can create real, lasting change.

Kelly’s life is a living testament to her dedication to diversity, inclusion, and justice. Through her work, advocacy, and personal journey, she inspires others to believe that meaningful change is possible when we embrace the sacredness of every person and every part of creation. She shows us that when we stand up for justice, live our truth, and nurture the bonds that unite us all, we have the power to transform the world.

Seeking to be inspired, to envision the unlikely, to work hard for things that are worth it, and to be surrounded by those who bring out the best in me.

Say hi on Twitter @ksconroy or Instagram @kellysconroy