Junior college represents something different to each person. For Iowa Central's Rosalie Fish, it means obtaining the highest level of academic and athletic achievement, while also leading an initiative towards raising awareness for Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women (MMIW).
A Cowlitz Indian Tribe member, Fish first made international headlines when she raced with a red handprint over her mouth to honor the lives of missing and murdered Indigenous women.
"I chose Iowa Central because of their outstanding history in women's cross country and track," stated Fish. "I realized as a senior in high school that Iowa Central possessed the necessary resources that I needed to be successful in the next level of my athletic and academic career. Attending Iowa Central for my freshman and sophomore years of running have been an investment towards a strong and rewarding future."
The Lake Tapps, WA native credits Iowa Central for introducing her to life as a collegiate runner, scholar, and activist. Fish says that she is physically and mentally stronger than she ever expected and enjoys time at Iowa Central because each moment leads to more progress than the day before.
"My coaches and instructors have played a large role in my ability to advocate," stated Fish. "They always work with me to ensure that I can complete schoolwork during travel while still fulfilling responsibilities to my community." Balancing schoolwork, practice, competition, and events related to her cause keep her on her toes.
In 2016, distance running was more a means of recovery for Fish as she struggled with her mental health. Now, it takes on a new meaning. Running is a way of representing her community and by doing so, she can amplify the voices of Indigenous people who have historically been silenced.
Running has allowed Fish to use her individual story to touch others and transform as a running activist. In addition, it's opened new doors that further public speaking opportunities to educate and inspire others.
When asked what advice Fish had for young girls, she said, "Never underestimate yourself. We all have dreams that the world will change, and young girls can spark that change by putting oneself out there and representing issues that matter to them."
Iowa Central took home the 2019 NJCAA Division I Women's Cross Country Championship, its eighth title in program history, all since 2007. Fish ran a time of 19:39 amongst a field of 290 runners to finish 33rd overall.
Following a successful freshman campaign, Fish looks forward to breaking new personal records while also pursuing a major in Human Services. Her TED talk with TEDXYOUTH Seattle, released at the end of January, cover topics like Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women, Youth Empowerment, Indigenous Visibility, and Suicide Prevention.
Four out of five Native women are affected by violence and the number one mission of MMIW is to bring the missing home. Additional focuses include shaping policy, conducting outreach, increasing awareness, and working to ensure that the tribal communities are represented within areas where they historically been underrepresented.