Alumni Highlight: Dana Jorczak

Dana (Miles) Jorczak is currently the College of Allied Health Director at LCOOU. This position works collaboratively with academic, administrative, and support units to foster a culture of data-informed decision-making, quality enhancement, and operational excellence. The Dean of Allied Health is responsible for the development, oversight, and administration of accredited educational programs in Nursing and Human Services. This administrative leadership role ensures the integration of high-quality didactic and clinical education, effective coordination of program faculty, and consistent evaluation of student progress. The director also maintains maintenance of program records and instruction of students. In addition, the Director of Allied Health will be responsible for overseeing the general operations of the Emergency Medical Services Programs, ensuring alignment with regulatory and institutional standards. The position also includes coordination of and participation in advisory committee activities, fostering collaboration with internal stakeholders and community partners.

Jorczak majored in Nursing at Lac Courte Oreilles Ojibwe University (LCOOU). She later went on to receive her Bachelor’s and Master’s in Nursing with an emphasis in education at Grand Canyon University. Jorczak also attained her Advanced Emergency Medical Technician certification for the state of Wisconsin and is a nationally registered Emergency Medical Technician.

When Dana entered LCOOU, she was a non-traditional, non-native mother with two young children (ages 1 & 10), both of whom played a major role in her motivation and commitment to succeed at LCOOU. For 13 years, she worked as a veterinary assistant and also served as an advanced EMT for Sawyer County, both roles rooted in care, service, and a strong work ethic. “While I’ve been proud of the work I’ve done, I reached a point where I knew I wanted to build something more, not just for myself, but for my children’s future,” shares Jorczak.

Going back to college was not an easy decision, but it was the right one. As a non-traditional student, she brought life experience, resilience, and a clear sense of purpose into the classroom. “I chose to pursue higher education to create a better life for my family and to serve my community in more meaningful ways,” said Jorczak. “Balancing school, parenting, and work was challenging, but every step I took was a step toward stability, opportunity, and setting an example of perseverance for my children. My journey was about growth, transformation, and showing that it’s never too late to pursue your goals, especially when they’re rooted in love and determination.”

As someone who plans to stay in the Hayward community long-term, it was important for her to pursue her education in a place that understands the people, the land, and the culture she plans to work with. LCOOU offers that unique opportunity. The university integrates Indigenous values and perspectives into its learning environment, helping her gain not only academic knowledge but also the cultural awareness and humility needed to serve effectively and respectfully.

Being part of LCOOU has deepened her understanding of the history, strengths, and challenges within local Indigenous communities. This education is directly connected to her goal of making a lasting, positive impact in Hayward, a place that she calls home, where she intends to build both her career and her service. “As a non-traditional student, I’ve also appreciated the supportive, inclusive environment that LCOOU provides. It honors my life experience and helps me apply what I’ve learned in ways that are meaningful and community-centered,” said Jorczak. “By choosing LCOOU, I wasn’t just earning a degree, I was and am preparing to walk alongside my community with respect, purpose, and the commitment to uplift those around me.”

Attending a tribal college as a non-Native student is an honor and a responsibility. It means being welcomed into a space that is rich with culture, history, and resilience as well as approaching that space with humility, respect, and a willingness to learn.

“For me, it’s not just about earning a degree, it’s about becoming more aware of the land I live on, the communities I live alongside, and the values that shape the learning environment at Lac Courte Oreilles Ojibwe University. As a non-Native student, I’ve gained a deeper appreciation for Indigenous knowledge, traditions, and perspectives that aren’t typically taught in mainstream institutions. This experience has helped me grow not only academically, but also personally,” she shares. “I recognize that being a guest in a tribal college setting means listening more than speaking, learning with an open mind, and using my education to uplift and respect the community I plan to live and work in, especially here in the Hayward area. It’s also about building bridges, showing that learning across cultures can create stronger, more compassionate leaders.”

For Dana, “attending Lac Courte Oreilles Ojibwe University (LCOOU) was truly life-changing for my career. After graduating, I set my sights on passing the NCLEX to become a registered nurse. When I failed on my first attempt, it was not only embarrassing, but it felt like a deep personal failure, especially as someone who had others depending on me. It shook my confidence, but it didn’t break my determination. I returned with a renewed focus, studied harder, and passed on my second attempt. That moment taught me resilience, something nursing demands every day. Soon after, I accepted a position at Hayward Hospital on the med-surg floor. After about a year, I transitioned into the emergency department, where I worked for several years. Each step helped me grow into a more capable, confident nurse. Eventually, I was promoted to house supervisor, a leadership role I never imagined myself in when I started this journey. Then, once the COVID-19 pandemic began to slow, I was approached by the Director of Nursing at LCOOU with an opportunity to return not as a student, but as a teacher. That invitation meant everything to me. It wasn’t just a job; it was a chance to give back to the university and community that supported me, and to help shape the next generation of nurses. Attending LCOOU gave me more than an education — it gave me a career path, a sense of purpose, and the opportunity to come full circle by lifting others as I continue to grow myself.”

Jorczak’s advice for prospective students? “If you’re even thinking about going to college at LCOOU, do it. If you’re determined, dedicated, and want a better life for yourself and those you care about, this is your moment. I know it can feel overwhelming, especially if you’ve been out of school for a while, have a job, or a family to take care of. But LCOOU understands that it’s a place built for real people with real lives. You won’t just find education here; you’ll find support, encouragement, and a community that believes in your potential. There’s never a “perfect” time to start, but if you have the drive to grow, LCOOU will meet you where you are and help you go farther than you ever thought possible. Don’t let fear or doubt hold you back. You deserve a future you’re proud of.”

Jorczak continues to work at Tamarack Health, formerly known as Hayward Hospital, as a House Supervisor and Medical-Surgical Nurse. She has been with the hospital for ten years. The role allows her to stay actively involved in direct patient care while also supporting hospital operations and mentoring newer nurses. Remaining in this position keeps her grounded in the field she loves and committed to providing quality care to her local community.