About Us
Who inspired the Foundation
Lakota James Tolloak, Ada, Oklahoma, 21 years old, left the earth far too soon. Lakota passed on January 17, 2025, surrounded by so much love and care from family and friends.
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Lakota was a bright and kind young man with a big heart. He attended Harvard University, where his sparkle got even brighter, and he became even more of a brilliant young man. Lakota was a Gates scholarship recipient, which should tell you how extraordinary he truly was. Lakota graduated from Ada High School in 2022 and was loved by the Ada High community.
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If you knew Lakota, you knew he was going to change the world. He had the kindest smile and a contagious laugh. He lived his life with so much intent and purpose, and he has left the world with such a significant impact. Lakota had many friends, and his kindness and love were evident in all his relationships. He loved them all very much.
Our Story
The Lakota Tolloak Foundation was born from heartbreak, but built on hope. After the unexpected loss of Lakota Tolloak, our world changed forever. Lakota was more than a son, brother, and friend—he was a bright light. A Harvard University student studying medicine, a skateboarder with quiet confidence, and someone who made everyone feel seen, heard, and valued.
He carried his Chickasaw heritage with pride and lived each day with purpose, compassion, and a sense of curiosity. Whether he was encouraging a friend, staying up late to talk about the stars, or coasting down the street on his board, Lakota lived fully—and gave fully.
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This foundation is our way of continuing his story.
We exist to honor Lakota’s legacy by supporting the things he cared about most: education, mental health, creativity, and kindness. Through scholarships, youth programs, and moments of connection, we’re turning grief into growth, and memory into movement.
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Lakota showed us how one life—lived with heart—can create ripples far beyond its years. Through this foundation, his light keeps shining.