Lauren Schad

Nike N7 has just named the latest successful Native person to its roster of N7 ambassadors, professional female volleyball player and model Lauren Schad. Schad is a citizen of the Cheyenne River Sioux Tribe. She began playing at age 14, then played for the University of San Diego until her professional career began in 2016.

N7 ambassadors are athletes reflect the Native American and Aboriginal community and influencers who choose to use their voice to inspire future generations and to celebrate the power of native youth, Nike says.

In an emailed statement to Indian Country Today, Schad said she was thrilled to be the newest N7 ambassador.

"I just back from my Nike N7 visit and am even more excited to be working with the N7 team," she wrote. "The energy throughout the entire visit was extremely positive and inspiring. I am humbled and honored to be a part of this tiospaye of talented and committed individuals, using sport to inspire and give back to indigenous communities. The pairing of my passion of volleyball and N7's mission of empowering youth has been a goal of mine since high school. I am excited to represent my tribe, family, and community in this new journey."

Schad also posted her excitement to social media, on Thursday she wrote on Facebook: "HUGE NEWS!!!! Words cannot begin to describe the amount of emotions I'm feeling. I'm so beyond humbled and honored to announce that I am officially signed with the Nike N7 brand as an ambassador."

Lauren Schad - Pro Volley HUGE NEWS!!!! Words cannot begin to describe the amount of emotions I'm feeling. I'm so beyond humbled and honored to announce that I…     www.facebook.com

Nike N7 general manager Sam McCracken described Schad as a positive and successful example for Native youth.

"It is a great time for Lauren as she has just signed a new deal to play pro in France.

I must say that she is a very articulate young lady with an inspiring story that resonates with Native youth across the U.S. and Canada," said McCracken.

"She is a sharp young person and I think she brings a lot to helping Native youth to be a success in life. She is also a model who has worn designs from reputable designers such as Bethany Yellowtail and other designers. She brings a lot to the table to bring Nike N7 to the next level," he said.

The list of ambassadors are on the Nike N7 website