Teton Saltes

Growing up in a struggling South Dakota community lit a fire inside Teton Saltes, who now advocates for indigenous people, disadvantaged children, student-athletes and many other underrepresented populations—all while donning cherry and silver as an offensive lineman on the Lobo Football team.

Born on the Pine Ridge Indian Reservation, Teton witnessed the immense hardships faced by his people. And so, his family instilled within him values of selflessness and an aspiration to empower all those who are marginalized.

A welcoming community, culturally diverse campus and the high-ranking School of Law drew him to The University of New Mexico. Studying political science and law, Teton will utilize the legal system to address issues plaguing populations he advocates for, develop viable solutions to alleviate hardships, while lobbying and passing legislation for positive change.

Whether on or off the field, Teton’s drive and determination is steadfast. He embraces his platform, becoming a bridge between his nation and his purpose—believing that, sometimes, opportunity is all you are given and what you do with that opportunity defines who you will become.