The Heart Behind
Pté Collective
Hi there, I'm Hilary Gourneau (Gor-no), founder of Pté Collective.
As an enrolled Dakota member of the Fort Peck Assiniboine and Sioux Tribes, my work is rooted in a deep commitment to Indigenous communities and the belief that lasting change begins with relationships, culture, and local leadership. My perspective has been shaped by both lived experience and a career dedicated to education, Tribal early childhood systems, organizational leadership, strategic planning, and community advocacy.
Along the way, I've seen both the incredible resilience of our communities and the barriers they continue to navigate—and I've learned that the strongest solutions are those created by the people who know their communities best.
I founded Pté Collective to be that kind of partner. Rather than bringing one-size-fits-all answers, I work alongside Tribal Nations, organizations, and rural communities to strengthen local capacity, build leadership, and create culturally grounded solutions that honor each community's vision for the future.
Thank you for being here. It is an honor to do this work, and I look forward to building relationships that create meaningful, lasting impact.
Hope to hear from you soon!
Rickielynn Hughes, is an enrolled member of the Comanche Nation of Oklahoma. She brings heart, humor, and unwavering dedication to everything she does. Known for making people laugh just when they need it most, she believes that genuine relationships are the foundation of supporting children and families. Her passion for special education is rooted in the belief that every child deserves to be seen, understood, and provided with opportunities to thrive, regardless of the challenges they may face.
With more than six years of experience spanning Tribal government, K–12 education, and early childhood special education, Rickielynn has dedicated her career to strengthening systems that better serve Indigenous children and families.
She has worked as a Special Education Paraprofessional, Elementary and Special Education Teacher, and Disabilities and Education Manager for Fort Peck Head Start, where she has led developmental screening systems, coordinated services with local and state partners, and advocated for inclusive, culturally responsive practices.
Currently pursuing her Bachelor's degree in Special Education and Elementary Education at Minot State University, Rickielynn continues to champion early intervention, family-centered supports, and collaborative partnerships that help children reach their fullest potential.
Rickielynn Hughes
Brittany Deavila is an enrolled member of the Fort Peck Assiniboine and Sioux Tribes of Montana. A dedicated professional with a passion for serving Tribal communities through healthcare, public service, and community-centered work. She holds an Associate of Arts in Social Work from Fort Peck Community College, an Associate of Arts in General Studies, and certifications as a Pharmacy Technician and Medical Administrative Assistant. Throughout her career, Brittany has built a strong foundation in healthcare, county government, administrative management, and community services, developing expertise in regulatory compliance, records management, customer service, and organizational leadership.
Her professional experience includes serving with Roosevelt County, Indian Health Service (IHS), the Roosevelt County Health Department, and the Fort Peck Tribes Head Start Program, where she supported children, families, and community initiatives through health coordination, administration, and family engagement. Across each role, Brittany has earned a reputation for being dependable, organized, and committed to delivering high-quality service while building strong relationships with the people and communities she serves.
As a proud mother of two sons, Brittany understands the importance of strong families, healthy communities, and creating opportunities for future generations. She is known for her professionalism, exceptional organizational skills, and unwavering work ethic. A quick learner, self-starter, and natural problem solver, Brittany approaches every opportunity with initiative, integrity, and a positive attitude. Her ability to adapt, think critically, and find practical solutions makes her a trusted partner for organizations seeking meaningful, sustainable change.
Through Pté Collective, Brittany is committed to helping Tribal Nations, Indigenous organizations, and rural communities strengthen their capacity, improve systems, and create lasting impact. She believes that meaningful progress begins with collaboration, respect, and a genuine commitment to serving others.
