LAS VEGAS – The William S. Boyd School of Law at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas (UNLV) and Tribal Leadership Council (TLC) today announced a groundbreaking partnership to offer a comprehensive executive education certification designed to develop leaders who understand the intersection of Tribal governance, business strategy, and organizational leadership.
The Executive Certificate in Tribal Sovereignty and Economic Leadership Program represents a unique collaboration that addresses the growing need for executives and professionals who can navigate complex legal frameworks, drive business innovation, and lead with cultural competency in diverse environments.
Offered through UNLV’s Indian Nations Gaming & Governance Program (INGG), the certification provides comprehensive training across key focus areas including legal, business, leadership, and finance. This integrated curriculum equips participants with the essential knowledge and skills needed to excel in today’s dynamic professional landscape.
“This partnership reflects UNLV’s commitment to providing cutting-edge executive education that meets the evolving needs of today’s leaders,” said Professor Danielle Finn, Director of the Indian Nations Gaming & Governance Program and citizen of the Standing Rock Sioux Tribe. “By combining academic excellence with practical expertise, we’re creating a transformative learning experience that prepares professionals for the challenges of modern leadership.
This certification program is made possible through the generous support of San Manuel Cares, the charitable arm of the Yuhaaviatam of San Manuel Nation, which provided a grant to TLC to develop and launch this initiative. The program is designed for business professionals and Tribal leaders seeking to enhance their expertise in Tribal business operations, Tribal economies, government relations, and strategic leadership.
“We’re excited about being able to bring non-faculty instructors to teach and develop material to ensure that we are bringing a Tribal perspective to the program,” said Justin Barrett, President of the TLC. “This program brings together exceptional Indigenous leaders and scholars who bring real-world experience and cultural expertise to the classroom.”
The certification features a distinguished roster of instructors including Eric S. Trevan, Ph.D., a citizen of the Match-e-be-nash-she-wish Band of Pottawatomi. Dr. Trevan is also the President & CEO of aLocal.ai and serves on several enterprise boards for various Tribal nations. Dr. Trevan will teach the economics and finance modules. Dr. Crystal Miller of the Walker River Paiute Tribe will join Jesse Downs, MPA, of the Shoalwater Bay Tribe in covering the governance module. Professor Danielle Finn will teach the Federal Indian law module, bringing her expertise as both an academic and a Tribal judge.
The certification will be held at the UNLV campus July 28-30, 2026. A welcome reception will occur on July 27. The Palms, owned by the San Manuel Gaming & Hospitality Authority, a business arm of the Yuhaaviatam of San Manuel Nation, will serve as the host hotel property.
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
About UNLV Indian Nations Gaming & Governance Program
The Indian Nations Gaming and Governance Program was established in 2020 thanks to the generosity of the Yuhaaviatam of San Manuel Nation. The program provides specialized academic training for law students, public programming for diverse audiences, academic and policy research, and educational forums examining current challenges and successes in tribal gaming, regulation, and governance. The faculty and leadership of the program possess vast experience in the realms of education, gaming, federal Indian law, tribal law and tribal governance. The Indian Nations Gaming & Governance Program is committed to helping Indian Nations use gaming to build a stronger future.