Roger Willie
Navajo Actor and Motivational Speaker
Roger Willie is a Navajo educator, artist and actor, made his screen debut in MGM’s production of Windtalkers in the spring of 2002.
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Full Bio
Roger Willie is a Navajo educator, artist and actor, made his screen debut in MGM’s production of Windtalkers in the spring of 2002. Willie’s inaugural acting experience has led to additional roles in, Adaptation, Edge of America, Lost Stallion: the journey home, Wesley, The 6th World, The Watchman’s Canoe, Dine and voice over for several Start Wars characters in the Navajo language. Having never acted before Windtalkers, Willie considers his serendipitous experience a result of his motto: Our Moment’s Decision Determines Our Destiny. Willie’s preparation for his role in Windtalkers was aided by his military experience. He proudly served four years in the United States Army’s elite 82nd Airborne at Fort Bragg, North Carolina.
Willie shares his life and film experiences when he speaks to audiences ranging from students, corporate executives, teachers, and community members as a way to inspire his listeners to, “Think Huge.” Recognizing and embracing the opportunities that have discovered Willie, he’s an advocate for leadership, education and health.
Willie earned a bachelor’s degree in Art from Fort Lewis College, Durango, Colorado. In January 2004, he completed his master’s degree in American Indian Studies at The University of Arizona in Tucson focusing his thesis on “Leadership.” Willie currently teaches Art and is a former Head Football Coach at Thoreau High School in Thoreau, New Mexico. Though no longer coaching Football under the “Single Wing” system that focuses on the element of surprise and devastation of run, pass and power, it is one of his most memorable life experiences.
An accomplished visual artist using pencil, charcoal and paint, his award-winning signature pieces incorporate images embedded within eagle feather tied together by arrowheads. “The feathers and arrowhead, as powerful symbols of Navajo culture, guide and protect one’s spirit and path of life.”
Willie is married to Teresa of the Lumbee Tribe, and they have two children, Seattle and Jodi. He enjoys outdoor activities such as hiking, traditional archery, driving his Jeep and drinking fresh grinded coffee in the early mornings. Willie was born and raised on the Navajo reservation in Continental Divide, New Mexico. His clans are the Wateredge, “Tabaahi,” and Salt, “Ashiihi”. He is fluent in Navajo and English and was raised in the traditional Navajo culture by parents John & Annie Willie whom he credits for his achievements and the desire to excel.
Testimonials
Ernie was perfect for our Elders Conference at Little River Casino Resort in Manistee, Michigan. We will definitely be using PDA again!
LITTLE RIVER BAND OF OTTAWA INDIANS
Our speaker was great and the crowd enjoyed her! She was very engaging. Thank you again PDA for the great list of suggestions!
MEDTRONIC
Everything went great! and our speaker was wonderful! Thank you so much for all your help PDA! Looking forward to the next one.
UNIVERSITY OF MISSOURI – KANSAS CITY
I hope that this message finds you well. We had a phenomenal time with Atsuko this past Thursday. We wanted to just let you know how amazing she was. All those that were in attendance thoroughly enjoyed her and had nothing but amazing things to say about her. Thank you for working with us to make sure this happened!
BAYLOR UNIVERSITY CAMPUS
We had a fantastic day with Inge! She was very engaging with all those that attended. Her personal stories about the holocaust were very special and we were moved that she was willing to share them with everyone. Thank you again, PDA for all your hard work and dedication to make this program such a success!
SALT LAKE COMMUNITY COLLEGE
Dear PDA Group, Thank you so much for your hard work in scheduling our speaker! From the moment we reached out to you the first time, you worked with us on all details and logistics and kept us up-to-date on the progress. Thank you for all your hard work on making our event such a success! We couldn't have done it without you and your team!
SAP COMPANY
Thank you again, Dr. Kimbrough, for a great presentation, our attendees are still talking about it!
CAMPUS LABS
Dr. Henry Lee's presentation was entertaining, insightful and wise. I, and everyone at Pfizer, especially appreciate the remarks you directed about following your passion and preparing yourself to excel. Thank you, everyone, at PDA for helping to make this happen!
PFIZER
The event was successful! I received many messages expressing how awesome, outstanding and inspiring Ms. Webb-Christburg's speech was."
DR. MARTIN LUTHER KING, JR. MEMORIAL BREAKFAST, BOSTON, MLK SPEAKER
Everything went well. Atsuko was very easy to work with and the students enjoyed her performance! Thank you again for your recommendation and I hope to work with you again in the future!
CENTRAL MICHIGAN UNIVERSITY
Dr. Novello left this morning after a very successful event on our campus! Thank you PDA Group for your help from the first phone to the last you were with us every step of the way.
GRAND VALLEY STATE UNIVERSITY
Jordan Carlos was very very entertaining! A majority of students who answered the event survey indicated they really enjoyed Jordan and definitely will bring him back!
WESTERN CAROLINA UNIVERSITY
On behalf of myself and my organization Entertainment Unlimited the Campus Programming Board of Ferris State University, we thank you PDA and Dan for a successful event!! Dan was magnificent! Students really enjoyed the presentation. I know I did. Can't wait to bring in more programs with PDA Group.
FERRIS STATE UNIVERSITY
It was a great pleasure to work with PDA Group! The communication was always prompt, friendly and helpful. We loved the speakers and events we booked through Mr. Peter Walker (PDA Group).
WESTERN MICHIGAN UNIVERSITY
Thank you, Peter, for all your help, you'll be happy to know that the event went incredibly well! Aneesa Ferreira was by far one of the best speakers we've ever had!
FURMAN UNIVERSITY
Topics
An Evening With Roger Willie
Honoring Our Nations: Building Strength Through Understanding,” followed by a questions and answer period.
Videos
Roger Willie talks about Windtalkers casting
Windtalkers (6/10) Movie CLIP - Call in the Code (2002) HD
Interview Roger Willie "Windtalkers"
Books
News
Testimonials
Everything went very well! Everyone really enjoyed Roger and he shared his story and really motivated everyone in the organization. We will definitely be bring back Mr. Willie. Thank you PDA for your recommendation.
Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation
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