IF YOU KNOW ME, YOU KNOW MY STORY
My name is Kelly Sherman-Conroy and I am a beautiful mosaic of lived-experience and culture.
ABOUT ME
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 dynamic storyteller, poet, lover of all forms of art, dedicated mom, and scholar. As the first Native woman to earn a PhD in theology within the ELCA, she offers a groundbreaking blend of Indigenous spirituality and Christian teachings, opening paths to healing and reconciliation across cultures.
Kelly teaches at Augsburg University and St. Olaf College, guiding students in social justice, spirituality, and racial reparations through an Indigenous lens. As a pastor at All Nations Indian Church, she provides spiritual leadership, creating a safe space for growth and community. She is also a convener of the Twin Cities Interfaith Movement, where she has trained over 400 chaplains since the George Floyd uprisings.
Her liturgical work for global events like the World Council of Churches and the ELCA’s Indigenous People’s Celebration bridges Indigenous traditions with Christian faith, creating unique and meaningful worship experiences. Known for her warmth, humor, and powerful presence, Kelly’s passion for justice and inclusion has led her to work with groups like the Minnesota Urban Indian Directors and the Minnesota Council of Churches. She also leads sacred site tours, connecting people with the land’s deep spiritual and historical significance.
A nationally and internationally sought-after speaker, Kelly’s wisdom on healing, justice, and spiritual connection resonates with diverse audiences. Her life and work inspire real, lasting change, empowering others to embrace the sacredness of every person and every part of creation.
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 X @ksconroy or Instagram @kellysconroy
PURPOSE
Nurture Community. Inspire Healing.
I embrace the beauty of living in harmony and
taking care of those around me by nurturing the body of mind and spirit and giving support in life's journeys.
My Lakota people have a saying, “Mitákuye Oyás’iŋ el changleska wiconi:” "We are all related in this circle of life."I want to create Spirit-inspired relationships, that are inclusive and accountable to all, dynamic, and that literally breathes Spirit into our healing.
NATIVE THEOLOGIAN
Every day I wake up in search of courage and authentic expression. And on this Native theological journey, I've been met with opportunities to create an impact in ways I'd never imagine. I carry the knowledge of my ancestors with me as I teach through an Indigenous lens about healing and inclusivity in the eyes of our Creator.
STORYTELLING
I have been given the space to grow as a storyteller and to see myself more as an artist than just a Native theologian. With every word spoken, every picture taken, every song sung, every word written, I become more of who I was meant to be. Through storytelling, I want to show the world in a new view and open hearts and minds to the beauty of creation we are surrounded by. We are storytellers, historians. It is important to keep the story alive. Do not forget to listen and you will begin to see the world through a new and exciting lens.
HEALER
Helping people find healing within themselves and within the community is a lot of what I do. If we learn to listen courageously with our heart, our mind, our ears, and our soul, we can allow the healing process to begin. God shows us ways to heal by sharing with us the gift of Woksape (understanding & wisdom) if we stop to listen.
My Great Great Grandfather Standing Bear
ANCESTORS
My Native American heritage is rich in community and family bonds. My ancestors, my family, strived to ensure I could thrive in a better world.
The elders in my family made sure that I knew the stories of my ancestors, that I understood how they are deeply connected to me today. They are defining characteristics of my life, my community, my culture. Through the generations my family has carried on the traditions of storytelling, healing, and leadership—my grandparents and elders were healers, they were change-makers, my mother a Pastor and healer, my father a gifted financier, my eldest brother an international Indigenous Chef, my younger siblings are entrepreneurs, homemakers, and leaders in their communities. My family is my strength, they are what sustains me and helps me envision a better world. I carry them with me always. They are a part of my story.
New 4-Week Course: Systematic Theology Through an Indigenous Perspective
Join us for a transformative 4-week journey where Indigenous wisdom meets Christian theology! Led by respected Native theologian Kelly Sherman - Conroy and special guest! This course dives deep into key theological concepts like creation, salvation, and community through the lens of Native spirituality.
✨ What to Expect:
- Engaging discussions on creation and healing
- Thought-provoking readings from Shalom and the Community of Creation and Braiding Sweetgrass
- Reflective creative writing activities
- A unique exploration of Christology from a Native perspective
Whether you’re looking to deepen your spiritual journey or gain a new perspective on theology, this course will equip you with powerful insights. 🌟
NOTE: This class will be in person. However, if there is enough interest for an online course we will offer an online version. Cost is $40 per person.
How I Speak- Wóyaka
Native American culture is known for our rich oral tradition - instead of using a written language to document our history, we rely upon our verbal language to share our history, customs, rituals, healing, and legends through vivid narratives. When a story is told, it breathes life, brings meaning, teaches life lessons, and creates a symbolic connection to all listening.
Areas of Wisdom - Wokšapé
Kelly speaks on topics of Faith, Spirituality and Theology, Indigenous Philosophy, Justice,
Trauma and Healing, Cultural Awareness, Healing Practices.
Sermons & Presentations -
Wóglaka
Kelly works with each context to respect that the mission and vision of the requestor are being met. If the request is a keynote presentation, class, sermon, small group facilitation, workshop or panel, Kelly will utilize her wisdom to create an experience that brings about an inclusive, thought-provoking time that incorporates a sacred way of discernment that can help attendees reflect into one's own life.
Writing - Wówapi
Kelly's writing captures her lived experience as an Indigenous woman, blending humor, warmth, transparency, and strength to reach her audience. As a deep philosophical thinker, Kelly infuses her work with thoughtful insights that challenge conventional perspectives. Influenced by her passion for prose, she weaves her reflections with both clarity and complexity, offering readers not only a window into her world but also an invitation to engage in profound contemplation and inspire meaningful change.
Healing - Owašté
Kelly is honored to share the sacred wisdom and healing practices passed down to her through generations of ancestors and the guidance of our Creator. Together, we will cultivate a healing space
that may not remove life’s challenges but will transform how we navigate and approach them with resilience and grace.
BOOK KELLY TODAY
Be the Change. Inspire Healing.
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