Tawny Savage
Transforming Challenges
About
Tawny Savage is a passionate social worker committed to fostering social change and justice. Remarkable women and leaders inspire her, and she dedicates herself to empowering tribal communities and driving positive transformation. She is a licensed clinical social worker and alcohol and drug counselor. She is known for stepping up to complex tasks and critical thinking. Aside from her career, she is also very active at home. As the co-owner of Spirit Lake Native Farms, she organizes the production and sale of wild rice and pure maple syrup; she is dedicated to promoting the importance of traditional foods. Amid the pandemic, Tawny filled requests for products and helped get products to distribution to then be delivered across the Great Lakes region, ensuring that elders had access to essential foods. Renowned for making maple sugar candies, she honors tradition by creating these treats for special occasions and as thoughtful gifts. Tawny firmly believes that traditional food nourishes the spirit and that sharing meals with loved ones unites people. Her unwavering dedication to fostering positive change and providing support during both triumphs and hardships makes her an invaluable asset to her community.
Dedicated to serving American Indian communities, addressing behavioral health challenges, and advocating for victims of violence. Tawny is committed to promoting awareness, systemic change, and training on social issues, especially the Missing and Murdered Indigenous Relatives (MMIR) crisis, using a trauma-informed, culturally sensitive approach.
Tawny understands the value of community and local economies. As a small business owner, she embodies hard work, advocacy, and wellness, making her a key advocate for indigenous-owned businesses. Her leadership at Spirit Lake Native Farms supports its mission of economic development and cultural preservation.
Tawny is a passionate social worker and mental health professional . She holds a Master of Social Work and specialized training in chemical dependency. Licensed as a Clinical Social Worker and Alcohol & Drug Counselor in Minnesota, Tawny has played key roles in violence prevention, mental health therapy, and social services coordination.
Tawny is a visionary leader with over two decades of experience in social services, mental health, and chemical dependency. Renowned for her unwavering commitment to trauma-informed care and social justice, she has transformed child welfare services and become a powerful advocate for mental health recovery. Tawny’s passion for empowering others and driving positive change continues to inspire and uplift communities.
Tawny has served as an Adjunct Instructor at Fond du Lac Community College, bringing her expertise in social services and mental health to the classroom.
Courses Taught:
- HSER 1001 – Introduction to Human Services (3 credits) – 2015
- PSYC 1030 – Drug Use and Abuse (3 credits) – 2018
- CDEP 2030 – Co-occurring Disorders (4 credits) – 2018 & 2019
Her teaching focuses on practical skills and real-world application, preparing students for careers in human services and mental health.
Tawny Savage
