about jaci

Through her participation in the Futuros Ancestral cohort, Jaci Leavitt hopes to "connect with the process of weaving — the people, designs, and connection to the Rio Grande." She feels "it would be amazing to be in a space that allows and encourages this; while passing on knowledge and preserving original designs and stories."

She also hopes to reconnect with her ancestry, as she has returned to Northern New Mexico where her mother's family has resided for generations — and where her Great Grandfather was a shepherd in Costilla. 

Jaci also loves working with her hands — from gardening to massage — and even Montessori training with toddlers. In addition to her own sheepherding, she has also helped an elder (Diné matriarch) process and spin raw wool.

She looks forward to honing in on a hand-made skill, and "getting to know, interact, share, and preserve" the techniques and designs of Rio Grande weaving, culture(s), and traditions.