Indigenous Leadership Development in the United States Christopher Wetzel, Ph.D. September 15, 2012

Introduction

Introduction

Introduction Policy Context Organization of the field Cultures of training Implications

Policy Context

I have signed into law … the Indian Self-Determination and Education Assistance Act. My Administration is committed to furthering the self- determination of Indian communities without terminating the special relationships between the Federal Government and the Indian people. -Pres. Gerald Ford, January 1975

Policy Context 1975 Act: allowed for contracting 1988 Amendment: allowed for compacting Challenges Federally recognized tribal nations Compliance with federal accounting and auditing Grant-driven

PublicCorporate Generalist Specialist Organization of the Field

Public-Specialist (n=25)Corporate-Specialist (n=11) Corporate-Generalist (n=10) Public-Generalist (n=7) Organization of the Field

Cultures of Training: Public Generalist Founded: 1987 Vision: The Harvard Project aims to understand and foster the conditions under which sustained, self- determined social and economic development is achieved among American Indian nations through applied research and service.

Cultures of Training: Public Generalist

Cultures of Training: Corporate Generalist Founded: 1985 Vision: To be the premier provider of culturally relevant education and information services for North American Indian tribes and organizations.

Cultures of Training: Corporate Generalist

Cultures of Training: Corporate Specialist Founded: 2011 Vision: We work with you to develop and implement practical, real-world solutions to the problems you face. … We leverage our insight and experience to help you diagnose, improve and deliver superior results in the key functional areas that impact your bottom line.

Cultures of Training: Corporate Specialist

Cultures of Training: Public Specialist Founded: 1995 Vision: The mission of the Native American Training Institute is to empower individuals, families and the community to create a safe and healthy environment so children and families can achieve their highest potential.

Cultures of Training: Public Specialist

Implications How can First Nations thoughtfully and strategically use the services of these organizations? What leadership and community development trainings are best handled by First Nations? How does the field impact expressions of self- determination and sovereignty?