People on the Move: Empowering Leadership in Indian Country
This month’s People on the Move highlights the impressive shifts in leadership and governance within notable organizations like the Cherokee Nation, the Alaska Native Heritage Center, and the University of Arizona Comprehensive Cancer Center. These appointments are not just changes in titles; they represent a commitment to advancing tribal sovereignty, fostering sustainable enterprises, and nurturing the next generation of Native leaders. Let’s dive into the individual stories behind these new appointments and promotions.
Hires and Promotions
Alaska Native Heritage Center
The Alaska Native Heritage Center has appointed Karla Gatgyedm Hana’a’x Booth as its director of cultural programs. A proud member of the Tsm’syen of the Raven Clan, Booth aims to deepen cultural initiatives, engaging with artists, elders, and culture bearers throughout Alaska. With a bachelor’s degree in Alaska Native literature from the University of Alaska Anchorage, her extensive experience as the Ch’k’iqadi Gallery manager and dancer in the Lepquinm Gumilgit Gagoadim Tsimshian Dancers since 2005 equips her well to promote Alaska Native culture.
Cherokee Nation
The Cherokee Nation has welcomed Brandon Scott as its new chief communications officer. A citizen of Cherokee Nation, Scott will oversee communications and public relations for both the tribe and Cherokee Nation Businesses. Previously the vice president of enterprise communications, Scott has been a trusted advisor since 2012, bringing valuable experience as the former executive editor of the Cherokee Phoenix.
North American Traditional Indigenous Food Systems (NATIFS)
NATIFS has appointed Patina Park as its first chief operating officer. A Mnicoujou Lakota, Park has a strong background in tribal-state relations from her tenure in the Walz administration and her leadership at the Minnesota Indian Women’s Resource Center. Her role will be crucial as she collaborates with NATIFS CEO Sean Sherman to manage daily operations focused on traditional food systems and sustainability.
University of Arizona Comprehensive Cancer Center
The University of Arizona Comprehensive Cancer Center has appointed Monica Yellowhair as its assistant director of Native American partnerships. Previously leading community outreach, Yellowhair is set to cultivate partnerships aimed at addressing cancer disparities within tribal communities across Arizona. Her focus will be on culturally relevant considerations in health initiatives, bridging gaps between tribal governance and health systems.
Indigenous Pact
Melissa Cruz has joined Indigenous Pact as the senior people and culture manager, bringing over 12 years of experience in communications and talent acquisition from her previous role at Edelman Data & Intelligence. Her extensive background will play a vital role in shaping the organizational culture and enhancing human resources strategies within Indigenous Pact.
Cook Inlet Region Inc.
Kyla Morris, a CIRI shareholder with Aleut/Unangan heritage, has been appointed senior director of stakeholder engagement. In this new role, Morris will spearhead programs that promote economic opportunity and social well-being for CIRI shareholders and descendants, while preserving Alaska Native heritage. Her leadership will be essential in driving CIRI’s mission forward as it seeks to uplift the community.
Appointments
Tribal Leadership Council Foundation
The Tribal Leadership Council Foundation has appointed James Craig III, a council member for the Tunica-Biloxi Tribe of Louisiana, to its Tribal Leadership Foundation Committee. Craig will contribute his insights to guide scholarship and professional development initiatives for emerging tribal leaders, leveraging his background in governance, banking, and military service to influence the future of leadership in Indian Country.
Cayuse Holdings
Cayuse Holdings has welcomed Annette Hamilton to its board of directors. A member of the Kickapoo Tribe of Kansas, Hamilton recently retired from a leadership role at a tribally owned holding company, where her strategic oversight resulted in a staggering 3,700% increase in revenue. Her wealth of experience in creating sustainable growth will assist Cayuse Holdings in advancing its mission of economic development.
American Indian Chamber of Commerce of Oklahoma
The American Indian Chamber of Commerce of Oklahoma has elected Julie Aldridge, Les McGee, and Angie Reeves to its board of directors. These leaders bring diverse experiences that will energize the Chamber’s efforts to support economic development in Oklahoma. Additionally, officers for 2026 have been elected: Amber Sharp as secretary, Katera Snelling as treasurer, Les McGee as vice president, and Nathan Hart as president.
Kudos
Ellen Harmon and Serena Harmon, co-owners of Rosebud Building Products, were honored with Rising Star Awards at the 2025 Top Women in Hardware & Building Supply event in Chicago. Their innovative contributions have not only shaped the future of the industry but have also demonstrated a strong commitment to community investment and job creation in South Dakota.
Kristen DiMauro, deputy chief of the Mashantucket Pequot Tribal Police Department, received recognition for completing an executive leadership program at Roger Williams University. This training focused on strategic decision-making and leadership development, equipping her with the skills necessary to navigate the complexities of modern policing.
These new hires, appointments, and accolades signify more than just personnel changes; they are essential strides toward empowerment and leadership development within Native communities. Each individual brings unique experiences and perspectives that will contribute to the growth and sustainability of their respective organizations, making a meaningful impact in Indian Country and beyond.
