Ridgefield, Wash. – Twenty-three individuals received their Tribal Governance Professional (TGP) Certification on March 5, 2026, 13 of whom are elected Tribal leaders. The intensive training was held at ilani owned by the Cowlitz Indian Tribe.
The TGP certification program was developed by KOSO Strategies (KOSO) in partnership with the Tribal Leadership Council (TLC) to strengthen governance capacity and professional development within Tribal communities. The professional certification represents comprehensive training in Tribal governance principles, best practices, and leadership skills essential for effective Tribal administration.
“Witnessing 23 dedicated professionals – including 13 elected Tribal leaders – earn this certification is a proud moment,” said Justin Barrett, TLC President. “The TGP program is building governance professionals who are prepared to lead the communities with the knowledge, integrity, and skill that Tribal self-determination demands.”
The program concentrates on critical needs in Tribal governance by providing structured professional development that combines traditional knowledge with contemporary governance practices. The certification program covers essential topics including Tribal sovereignty, strategic leadership, crisis management, and financial stewardship.
“The TGP certification was built from the ground up to reflect the unique sovereignty and governance structures of Tribal nations,” said Ernest Vargas, Jr., Founding Director of KOSO. “These newly certified professionals join a growing network of leaders who are elevating the standard of Tribal governance. We look forward to the lasting impact they will have in their communities.”
The Tribal Leadership Council and KOSO Strategies extend their sincere gratitude to ilani and the Cowlitz Indian Tribe for graciously hosting us at their beautiful facility for the TGP program.
About KOSO Strategies
KOSO Strategies was founded to support Tribal governments in building resilient, self-sustaining Tribal communities by delivering customized, culturally relevant strategies, training, and leadership consulting grounded in proven practices. With more than 50 years of combined experience working in Indian Country, KOSO regularly advises Tribal Councils, government leaders, Tribal enterprises, departments, committees, boards, and executive leadership teams, emphasizing mentorship and capacity building to help clients develop the skills and systems needed for long-term self-sufficiency and guided tailored to reach Tribe’s unique governance, operational, and community priorities.
To learn more about KOSO Strategies, visit:
About the Tribal Leadership Council
The Tribal Leadership Council (TLC) is a national organization committed to advancing the sovereignty, leadership, and long-term sustainability of Tribal nations across the United States. Founded with a mission to build capacity and strengthen Tribal governance, TLC provides dynamic programs, professional development opportunities, and practical tools that empower Tribal leaders, administrators, and policymakers to create lasting, positive change within their communities.
TLC serves as a hub for leadership training, strategic planning, and intergovernmental collaboration, offering a variety of in-person and virtual events throughout the year – including its signature Annual Tribal Leadership Conference and a series of hands-on regional trainings and workshops. These gatherings provide Tribal officials and staff with access to industry experts, peer-to-peer networking, and proven strategies for addressing today’s most pressing challenges in areas such as economic development, governance, public health, infrastructure, and community engagement.
To learn more about TLC’s programs, resources, and upcoming events, visit: www.TribalLeadershipCouncil.com
Media Contact: communications@triballeadershipcouncil.com