According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, the average global temperature for June was the hottest on record. It’s certainly been a “hot” month for the National Center, and our work continues as we near the end of July. We will certainly stay busy through the rest of the summer, when we will host a gala to recognize the 2019 class of the Native American 40 under 40 winners and recipients of our business scholarships. Applications and nominations are in, and I can’t wait to celebrate these young leaders’ achievements on August 24th at the Sheraton Grand in Phoenix. You can be a part of the festivities and purchase your ticket here. If you are looking for a way to support all of the National Center’s great work, please don’t hesitate to contact me about event sponsorships or donation opportunities.

Speaking of 40 under 40, we’re continuing to cultivate the community created by these incredible young leaders, including internally here at the National Center. In fact, three of our new Board officers are past winners of this prestigious award. Burton Warrington is our Vice President, Lillian Sparks Robinson serves as Treasurer, and Charlie Galbraith takes over as Secretary. I’m thrilled to work with all three and can’t wait to see their continued contributions to our organization.

Beyond the National Center, I’m excited to announce that I’ve joined the First Peoples Worldwide Advisory Committee. Based at the University of Colorado at Boulder, First Peoples Worldwide works from a foundation of indigenous values to achieve a sustainable future for all. Its work facilitates collaboration between indigenous peoples and investors to address the unique social and environmental impacts of development in Indigenous communities, while preparing leaders to address the pressing social responsibility challenges facing today’s businesses. The organization is doing great work and I look forward to contributing to its growth.

I’m always heartened to see our clients doing big things, and that’s certainly true for Mavid Construction and Managing Member Zoar Fulwilder. One of our PTAC clients, Mavid is a true success story, having been involved with renovations and additions at Green Bay’s historic Lambeau Field since 2011. You can learn more about Mavid and Zoar, including their “Lambeau Leap,” by clicking here.

Finally, I know the future is bright for Indian Country because I’ve already seen it on display. At UNITY’s annual conference, Joseph Davis from Gila River and Rachel Arthur from Colville Tribes won the Business Plan Competition for their idea to create Aesthetic Coffee Co. These young entrepreneurs are well on their way to future success – whether that’s in business or any other field. Congratulations to Joseph and Rachel for their success.

Thank you, and I hope to see you next month in Phoenix.

Sincerely,

Chris James
President and CEO
The National Center for American Indian Enterprise Development