Comanche Academy Surprises University of Oklahoma Graduate

On January 12, family, students and colleagues gathered for Language and Culture Curriculum Specialist Gail Burgess’ surprise graduation ceremony at Comanche Academy Charter School.

She graduated with a Master’s in Indigenous People’s Law from Oklahoma University, and the program was 15 months long. Burgess began working at the charter school during that time. She said it was challenging to juggle work and school.

Burgess said the pandemic and the loss of her mother were challenging as well. At the ceremony, there was a memorial for her mother.

“I was able to pull through it and complete my program,” she said.

Due to the nature of Burgess’ job, she teaches all the charter school students, which includes pre-K through second grade.

Before she walked down the aisle to her spot in the auditorium, she received emotional embraces from those close to her.

“The fact that they thought of me that way,” she said. “To do that for me to plan it out and to be able to collaborate with one another because I also work with the language department as well. And so, that department was here, and then we had the teachers, the students and my family. Some of my family was here. So, for all of that to come in, it was emotional for me.”

The children held various performances at the event, including the students counting and reciting the storybook “Brown Bear” in Comanche. Some of the students also wished Burgess congratulations on stage. They also gave her several gifts throughout the ceremony. There was also a small powwow that featured traditional Comanche Nation Dances.

However, Burgess would like to move on to help indigenous people through the government.

“So right now, I am working here and doing the best that I can for our language and culture,” she said. “And in the future, I want to go out to Washington D.C., hopefully, work somewhere like the Office of Indian Education. I want to do something with policy to create change for our native community, our indigenous population.”

As for continuing her education, Burgess said she had been encouraged to get her doctorate. Burgess said she’s considering continuing higher education.

 Burgess received flowers, snacks, and other items from students.

There was also a cake shaped like a ribbon skirt served at the event.