Tracy Zacher grew up in South Dakota and is a member of the Rosebud Sioux Tribe. She graduated with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Spanish and Psychology in 1996, and received an Associate Degree in Nursing in 1999, both from the University of South Dakota. She has been a registered nurse since 1999, and her work experience is varied, from long term care to clinic work to bedside nursing at large hospitals.
She currently works full-time as a Field Office Director for Missouri Breaks Industries Research, Inc. which is home of the Strong Heart Study, the only longitudinal study of the American Indian population. Strong Heart focuses on cardiovascular disease and diabetes within that population.
Mrs. Zacher manages various research studies being conducted within the Oglala Sioux Tribe aimed at reducing health disparities. She also works part-time as a bedside nurse specializing in the care of orthopedic, neurological and surgical patients for Rapid City Regional Hospital, a level 2 trauma center and stoke certified medical facility.
Mrs. Zacher lives with a passion to bring opportunity to American Indian communities for future generations and has been involved with the Asniya program since 1999. She was instrumental in getting the organization incorporated as a non-profit and a 501(c)3 in 2002, and forming partnerships with additional medical schools and schools throughout South Dakota tribal communities.