Tousey's origin story begins in Keshena, Wisconsin, where she was born with deep roots in Native American heritage as a Menominee and Stockbridge-Munsee individual. Her upbringing was deeply influenced by the cultural traditions and values of both the Menominee and Stockbridge-Munsee reservations, where she spent her formative years.
As a child, Tousey was already immersed in the vibrant world of pow wows, where she honed her skills and developed a passion for performance. However, it wasn't until she attended the University of New Mexico that she took the stage for the first time, marking the beginning of her journey as a professional dancer and actress.
Initially, Tousey had planned to pursue a career in law, enrolling in the university's law program with a focus on federal contracts and Native American law. However, her academic path took an unexpected turn when she switched to English and began exploring the world of theater arts. This serendipitous decision would ultimately shape the trajectory of her career.
After completing her undergraduate degree, Tousey went on to pursue her graduate acting degree at New York University's Tisch School of Arts, where she further refined her craft and prepared herself for a life in the spotlight.
