ASU hosts Tribal Government Leadership Forum


The Arizona State University Office of Public Affairs will hold the Tribal Government Leadership Forum on April 5-6, 2011. This program, presented from a uniquely Native worldview, brings together outstanding, respected leaders who share their experience, stories, and wisdom with new and current generations of tribal government leaders. This year’s Tribal Government Leadership Forum will be held in conjunction with the National Indian Gaming Association Trade Show at the Phoenix Convention Center, 100 N. 3rd St., Phoenix.

“The purpose of the Tribal Government Leadership Forum is to help prepare the next generation of tribal leadership,” says Ivan Makil, former president of the Salt River Pima-Maricopa Indian Community. “What we’re hearing from current and former tribal leaders is the need to ensure the continuity of strong governments through strong leadership.” Current tribal leaders are encouraged to attend to provide insight and lessons to young emerging leaders and key staff that also play a critical role in leading and managing tribal governments.

Participants will discuss strategies that can enrich their own lives and the lives of their people and communities. The program includes sessions on the history of federal Indian policy, ethics, intergovernmental relations, legislation, and economic stability in challenging times. This year’s program will be highlighted by a panel discussion on the benefits and options available to tribal communities to participate in energy projects such as wind, solar, and geothermal. Both Salt River Project and Arizona Public Service will participate on the panel as well.

Ivan Makil recognized the need for a program tailored specifically to the unique leadership challenges of tribal governments and worked with ASU to develop the TGLF program. The original program, previously titled the American Indian Newly Elected Officials, was established in 2005.

Registration information for this year’s program can be found at http://outreach.asu.edu/tglf/. For more information contact 
Jacob Moore in ASU's Office of Public Affairs at 602-496-1010 or tglf@asu.edu.