Tribal Organizations and Enterprises Aligned for Growth: November Executive News
As November unfolds, a wave of dynamic leadership changes and executive appointments within tribal organizations and enterprises marks a significant chapter for Native communities across the United States. With new chief executives entrusted with vital roles, the emphasis on community enhancement through education, health, and economic development is more pronounced than ever. From the California Rural Indian Health Board to the Cowlitz Economic Authority, these appointments reflect a broader commitment to serve and uplift Indigenous populations.
Key Hires and Promotions
Native American Housing Circle (NAHC) has taken a significant step forward with the appointment of Sierra Trujillo as its executive director. An enrolled member of Taos Pueblo, Trujillo’s extensive background spans over 15 years in addressing homelessness and fostering racial equity. Her involvement with NAHC since 2021, including her role as a founding board member, ensures a seamless transition as she succeeds interim executive director Virginia Ortiz. Trujillo’s previous role as the director of equity and inclusion at Metro Denver Homeless Initiative is particularly noteworthy; she spearheaded regional equity strategies that actively addressed youth homelessness. Currently pursuing a master’s degree in public administration from the University of Colorado Denver, Trujillo is poised to make impactful changes at NAHC.
Meanwhile, the Nebraska Indian Child Welfare Coalition appointed Chiara Cournoyer-Bruguier as its new administrative manager. An enrolled member of the Yankton Sioux Tribe, Cournoyer-Bruguier has been instrumental in facilitating the organization’s “Motherhood and Fatherhood is Sacred” classes since 2020. Her wealth of experience includes roles as a child welfare specialist and human services director, positioning her as a vital advocate for tribal child welfare. With a social work degree and a business degree under her belt, Cournoyer-Bruguier is set to enhance the coalition’s reach and efficacy.
The California Native American Heritage Commission welcomed Andrew “Dru” Alejandre as executive secretary, an appointment announced by Gov. Gavin Newsom on October 17th. Alejandre’s previous experience encompasses roles in tribal leadership and community service as he has served as tribal liaison at Emic Health Services since 2024. His extensive background, including previous chairmanship of the Paskenta Band of Nomlaki Indians, highlights a commitment to preserving and promoting Native heritage.
Further strengthening tribal leadership, the Alliance on Tribal Clean Energy appointed Anna Sattler as the associate director of Alaska Native affairs. Sattler’s previous role at Alaska Village Electric Cooperative showcases her dedication to community engagement and energy sustainability, which will be crucial for the organization as it navigates the clean energy landscape.
From executive changes at tribal enterprises, the Eastern Shawnee Companies hired Nick Hall as senior project manager for environmental services, bringing nearly two decades of experience in environmental and GIS projects. Additionally, Megan Perez-Utter received a promotion to environmental account manager within the same organization, focusing on bolstering client relationships and overseeing federal environmental projects.
The Cowlitz Economic Authority made headlines by appointing Jesse Downs as its first chief executive officer after a thorough national search. An enrolled member of the Shoalwater Bay Indian Tribe, Downs brings over ten years of executive leadership in Native-owned businesses and vast experience in managing multi-billion-dollar projects. The authority oversees the economic interests of the Cowlitz Indian Tribe, including various ventures that align with their strategic objectives.
Similarly, the California Rural Indian Health Board has made historic progress with the appointment of Virginia Hedrick as CEO, marking her as the first woman to lead the organization. An enrolled member of the Yurok Tribe, Hedrick has two decades of experience in public health and has held multiple roles at CRIHB, including associate health policy analyst. Her transition to CEO emphasizes a continued commitment to enhancing health services across rural California.
Strategic Appointments and Advisory Roles
In alignment with growth strategies, the Phoenix Indian Center further bolstered its board of directors with the appointment of Cynthia G. Banks, a tribal solutions specialist at Wealthspire. Her focus on retirement planning uniquely positions her to support the financial well-being of tribal communities.
The American Indian Science and Engineering Society (AISES) is revitalizing its board dynamics by appointing five notable members, such as Kevin Allis, an influential leader within the Native aviation industry, and Carly Hare, CEO of the Headwaters Foundation. This infusion of expertise strengthens the organization’s mission to promote STEM education among Indigenous youth.
Moreover, the Tribal Leadership Council has appointed three strategic advisors to guide its direction. This inclusion of industry leaders from various sectors—including healthcare and gaming—demonstrates a commitment to collaborative governance.
Recognizing Achievement in Indian Country
In addition to these leadership changes, various Tribal entities are seeing recognition for their significant contributions. The Indigenous Biz Con recently showcased Native-owned businesses through a competitive pitch event. Milwaukee’s OTG Muncheez and Shawano Trucking each received a $2,000 grant, illustrating the importance of support for Indigenous entrepreneurship. The annual conference also presented several awards acknowledging excellence within various categories, prominently featuring the late Indian Gaming Association Chairman Ernie Stevens Jr. as Business Leader of the Year, posthumously.
Moreover, the Seneca Resorts & Casinos garnered accolades with executives being named to Buffalo Business First’s 2025 Power 100 list. Recognizing leaders like Kevin Nephew and Kimberlee Dunlop reflects a growing visibility for Natives within the corporate sphere.
Infrastructure projects are also thriving, with tribal initiatives capturing awards at the 2025 New Mexico Infrastructure Finance Conference. This recognition speaks to the ongoing investments in community development and public health within tribal territories.
Lastly, the National Native American Human Resources Association celebrated excellence in HR leadership at its recent conference, acknowledging the Chickasaw Leadership Academy’s efforts in mentorship and training along with honoring Renee K. Martin as HR Leader of the Year. Her dedication to cultivating future leaders is a testament to the potential of human resource development in tribal settings.
Through these appointments, recognitions, and structural enhancements, tribal organizations are steadily making strides toward a more empowered and sustainable future for Native American communities nationwide.
