My professional journey began in education, where I served as an Ojibwe Language Instructor for the Mt. Pleasant Public Schools, a Title VII Indian Education Coordinator for the Harbor Springs Public Schools and Education Specialist in our LTBB Education Department, fostering a strong foundation in language and cultural preservation, tribal government programming, community education and organizing.  I transitioned into the Cultural Resources Management and Museum Services field through my work as Director of the LTBB Archives, Records & Cultural Preservation Department.  I was then elected to our Tribal Council from 2011 to 2015, where I learned the art of writing legislation, the value of robust debate, the confidence to speak up for our people, the intricacies of the governmental budgeting process and the importance of fair and compassionate leadership.

In 2015, I moved from Harbor Springs to Mt. Pleasant, Michigan to restart my higher education journey.  Having received a Bachelor of Science in Education degree (English, Language Arts & Ojibwe Bilingual/Bicultural Education) from Central Michigan University in 2000, I wanted to pursue a Master-level degree in a field that would expand my skills and allow me to better serve our people.  While narrowing down my educational focus, I held many positions with the Saginaw Chippewa Indian Tribe of Michigan (SCIT).  I worked at the SCIT Tribal College, in the SCIT Education Department and the SCIT Behavioral Health Programs.

In 2022, I graduated from Michigan State University with a Master of Clinical Social Work degree.  Achieving this degree was inspired by my desire to better understand how to address the complex social needs in our Native communities.  Being a former student of the Holy Childhood of Jesus Indian Boarding School, and a person in recovery, I wanted to learn how to help myself and others heal and build skills to live a healthy and happy life.

 With an ultimate goal of returning home to again serve our community, I am also pursuing a Master of Business Administration (MBA) with a focus on Value-Driven Organizations from Central Michigan University, demonstrating my commitment to responsible, ethical and financially sound leadership. Knowledge of finance, business and information technology are vital additions to my diligent and compassionate leadership style. Armed with the strength from our Odawa cultural values, a deep respect for our people and a desire to serve, I am not only a qualified candidate, but I will work tirelessly to advance the interests of our community. My experience, education, cultural knowledge, and proven leadership abilities make me the ideal choice to represent and serve the Little Traverse Bay Bands Odawa Indians.  I would be honored to have your support!  

Miigwech!

I hold a Bachelor of Applied Science degree in Tribal Administration and Governance from the University of Minnesota, as well as two Associate of Applied Science degrees in Web Design and Graphic Design from Kalamazoo Valley Community College. Additionally, I have earned a Certificate in Clerical Technology. My educational background, combined with years of direct experience working in various Tribal departments such as the LTBB Gijigowi Language Department, LTBB Elders Kikaajik Department, LTBB Natural Resources Department, and LTBB Archives / Records and Cultural Preservation Department, has provided me with a well-rounded understanding of our Tribe’s programs and services.

In my most recent role as Administrative Assistant in the LTBB Legislative Office, I gained invaluable insights into the governing structure of our Legislative branch and the Legislative process. I have also had the privilege of volunteering for numerous Tribal events and activities, including LTBB Children’s Solstice Party, LTBB Sovereignty Day Celebration, LTBB Odawa Homecoming Powwow, and the LTBB Round Dance. I am honored to have served as the organizer for Meet the Candidates during the 2021 LTBB Tribal Elections and I currently serve as a board member for the Water is Life Festival. I was also elected to serve as the speaker for the LTBB Annual Community Meeting for two consecutive years.

My Mother, Shirley Oldman (née Naganashe), played a key role in our Tribe’s reaffirmation efforts and served as a Tribal Councilor for many years. The work of my Mother and so many others has laid the foundation for our Tribe’s continued success and resilience. I am now ready to build upon that legacy and step into a leadership role that will help address both current challenges and future opportunities.

As we look to the future, I believe that my experience, education, and skill set are essential for the position of Tribal Vice-Chair. The complexities of tribal governance and advocacy, particularly at the federal level, require strong leadership, and I am committed to effectively communicating our needs to our counterparts in Washington, D.C. In times of federal uncertainty, fiscal responsibility is critical, and I will work diligently to ensure our Tribe remains financially secure while prioritizing the well-being of our community.

Through my education and experiences I have gained comprehensive knowledge in key areas including tribal sovereignty, tribal governance, Federal Indian law and policy, American Indian diplomacy, tribal treaty rights and intergovernmental relationships between federal, state, and tribal governments. In addition, I am well-versed in the principles of strategic management, project management, and operations management within a tribal context as well as the unique processes and methods Native Nations use to administer programs. My ability to analyze and compare different tribal governance practices, constitutions, and statutes will be an asset as we continue to strengthen our Tribe’s future.

With my diverse background in business, Tribal governance, community service and cultural knowledge, I am dedicated to advocating for our Tribe and representing our people with integrity. I will work tirelessly to ensure that our Tribe thrives and remains resilient in the face of challenges.

I humbly ask for your support and your vote as we continue working toward a brighter future for the Little Traverse Bay Bands of Odawa Indians.

Chi Miigwech!