LAWTON, OKLAHOMA (July 5, 2024) – The Tribal Leadership Council Board of Directors is pleased to announce the recipients of the Tribal Leadership Conference Awards. These individuals were selected for their outstanding leadership in Indian Country.
- The Lifetime Leadership Award was awarded to Chairwoman Lynn “Nay” Valbuena of the San Manuel Band of Mission Indians
- Chairman Cole Miller of the Shakopee Mdewakanton Sioux Community received our Leader of Today Award
- The Leader of Tomorrow Award was awarded to Secretary/Treasurer Steven Orihuela of the Bishop Paiute Tribe
The Lifetime Leadership Award recognizes a Tribal leader who has served their membership through many phases over the years. Continuously adapting their leadership to the ever-changing environment of their nation. Fostering relationships with other governments and advocating for their inherent rights, they are a leader that has left a remarkable imprint for the future generations.
The Leader of Today exemplifies passion, organization, and action. They are thought leaders taking action to maintain sovereignty while creating change for the preservation of their culture and sustainability of their membership.
The Leader of Tomorrow Award recognizes the up-and-coming leaders. This leader has made an entrance to remember, and they have only begun their trail of servitude to create a better tomorrow.
“We are honored to be able recognize the achievements of Chairwoman Valbuena, Chairman Miller, and Secretary/Treasurer Oriheula for their outstanding leadership in Indian Country at the Tribal Leadership Conference. These three individuals will serve as our inaugural honorees,” said TLC Chairman Justin Barrett.
About Tribal Leadership Council
Formed in 2023, the Tribal Leadership Council (TLC) is a board-governed 501(c)(3) organization that proudly supports tribal leaders and executives with continuing education and provides tools to better their organizations. The primary focus of the TLC is empowering leadership and promoting economic growth and prosperity for tribal communities. Learn more here: www.TribalLeadershipCouncil.com
Media Contact
Justin Barrett