The Native American Partnership Conference for Health and Wellness aims to empower our Native American communities to take an active role in their own health and wellness. The conference will highlight successful community-driven initiatives, strategies for advocacy and policy change, the importance of preventive care and healthy lifestyle choices, and learn from other tribal members who will inspire growth and success.

Track 1: Health & Wellness

Objectives:

• Through informative sessions, workshops, and presentations, attendees will gain a better understanding of the risk factors, early detection, and how to adopt and maintain a healthier lifestyle though dietary choices, physical activity, and stress management.
• Emphasize the importance of culturally relevant interventions that respect traditional practices and values while promoting health and wellness.

Track 2: Harmony & Heritage

Objectives:

• Share personal journeys of growth, resilience, and success. By sharing real-life experiences, attendees can learn from one another's challenges and triumphs, fostering a culture of openness and empathy.
• Provide positive prevention and awareness on the underlying causes of trauma in underserved Native/Indigenous Communities of New Mexico.
• Inspire and engage the younger generation of Native Americans to take pride in their heritage, become culturally active, and carry forward the traditions and values of their ancestors.

Track 3: Entrepreneurial and Business Developments in Indian Country

Objectives:

• Showcase inspiring success stories of Native American business leaders who have overcome challenges and achieved significant milestones, serving as role models for others.
• Encourage the integration of traditional knowledge and cultural values into entrepreneurial endeavors, fostering businesses that are culturally sensitive and aligned with community values.
• Promote initiatives that allow Native American communities to leverage their cultural heritage as a unique selling point, attracting customers and investors interested in authentic and sustainable products and experiences.

Fostering Wellness Across Generations: Native American Behavioral Health Panel Discussion

Join us for a panel discussion on the unique behavioral health challenges, experiences and perspectives of Native American youth, middle-aged individuals, and elders. Participants will appreciate the historical, cultural, and societal factors that have shaped the mental health landscape for each generation and hear personal stories and wisdom from each generation, providing valuable lessons and advice on maintaining mental health and wellness.

Meet our Keynote Speaker

Esther Lucero (Navajo/Latina) became the Chief Executive Officer of the Seattle Indian Health Board in November 2015, ushering in a new era for the organization following the retirement of its longtime CEO, Ralph Forquera. Prior, Ms. Lucero was from the California Consortium for Urban Indian Health in San Francisco, where she was the Director of Programs and Strategic Development. Esther received her Master in Public Policy from Mills College in 2010. She brings her experience and training in public policy coupled with her robust experience in state and national level health policy work, including extensive knowledge of federally qualified health centers, and urban Indian health issues.

Presentation: Indigenous Resilience, Resistance and Revitalization: Understanding and Overcoming Racism and the Social Construct of Chronic Illness in Indigenous Communities

This presentation will help you understand the role of racism and the socio-political histories of American Indians and Alaska Native People in the US, which fueled calculated efforts toward genocide and resulted in rampant disparities related to chronic illness. It will also paint a picture of how and why the revitalization and sustainability of Indigenous epistemologies are key to a future of wellness.

Meet our Emcee

Dr. Sherry Allison is a member of the Dine’ Nation from the Tse Daa K’aan Chapter. She is Oozei’ Tachii’nii (Red Running into the Water People-related to the Hopi), born for the Naakaii Dine’e’ (Mexican) clan. Her maternal and paternal grandfathers are respectively Ma’ii deeshgiizhinii (Coyote Pass-Jemez clan) and Tsi’naajinii (Black Streak Wood People). Dr. Allison holds a Doctor of Education from Northern Arizona University, Master of Arts in Education and a Bachelor of Social Work. Dr. Allison’s +30 years of work experience includes tenure with the State of New Mexico, Navajo Nation, University of Arizona, University of New Mexico and the US Federal Government. Recently retiring from federal services, she served as president of Southwestern Indian Polytechnic Institute (SIPI) – Bureau of Indian Education for 11 years. Dr. Allison served on several national and state boards and committees including service as the 1999-2000 President of the National Indian Education Association (NIEA). Dr. Allison is a recipient of the Patricia Roberts Harris Academic Fellowship from the U.S. Department of Education to complete her Doctorate Degree. She was selected as the 2014 Tribal College Honoree of the Year, American Indian College Fund in recognition of her contribution for positive and lasting impact on the tribal college movement; she was also selected as the NIEA 2017 Lifetime Achievement Award for her lifelong dedication to Indian Education. Dr. Allison is married to B. Alley David (Pueblo of Laguna), they are the parents of 3 adult sons, 1 daughter/niece, and have 7 grandchildren and 2 great grandchildren.

MEET OUR SPECIAL GUEST ARTIST

Andrew Thomas is a contemporary, self-taught flute player. A Native New Mexican and proud member of the Navajo Nation (Diné), he chose the flute to express his way of life, heritage, and culture. Mr. Thomas has been able to share his flute playing all over the United States and the world which he is thankful in that it allows him to connect with people of all cultures through music, something he deeply enjoys. In both his music and life in general, he is dedicated to preserving Native ways as well as spreading awareness for the need to share and communicate cross-culturally. He also cares deeply for protecting rights of all humans. Mr. Thomas is a valued employee of Indian Pueblo Store and often gives educational presentations on the traditional items that can be found in the Store. His compelling and heartfelt music will enlighten and inspire you.

Health & Wellness Track

Carleton P. Albert, Sr., is from the Pueblo of Zuni. He is of the Turkey and child of the Dogwood Clans.  He is a member of the Hunter (Saniyaka) Fraternity within the Cultural community of Zuni and is active with his participation in Cultural obligations and commitments. His educational background consists of a Bachelor’s of Science Degree in Community Health from the University of Central Oklahoma and is employed as the Program Manager for the Zuni Wellness Center. Carleton has served in Pueblo Leadership as Head Councilman and Councilman serving two – four year terms in elected office from 2003 – 2010.  During his tenure in Leadership, he served as the Health and Educational Liaison for the Pueblo of Zuni and represented the Albuquerque Indian Health Service Area on Health committees advocating for equal and quality of services that impact Pueblo and Tribal community health issues.  He continues to Co-chair the Albuquerque Area Southwest Tribal Epidemiology Center / Community Scientific Advisory Committee.

Chenoa Bah Stilwell-Jensen, Dine, Dzil Tl’aani ninli, English yaaschiin, Ashiihi da’bichei, French Canadian da’nibinali, Tseyaato doo Corrales dee nagha.  She is a Cultural Care Provider. Chenoa Bah is passionate about being active with her family, hiking, being outdoors, cooking and eating delicious food from throughout the world.

Jacqueline Edaakie is from the Pueblo of Zuni and currently pursuing a career as a registered dietitian nutritionist (RDN), the first member of her pueblo to do so. Her educational background includes a Bachelor of Science degree in Nutrition and Dietetics from the University of New Mexico (UNM). Graduating Summa Cum Laude, she was recognized for outstanding student in the Nutrition and Dietetics Program within the College of Education at UNM. In the past, Jacqueline has been active in her community through various health and wellness outreach programs serving as a lifestyle coach, fitness instructor, nutrition educator, and program coordinator. Recently, Jacqueline has been volunteering in low-income communities assisting food pantries, providing social services, and helping at community events. She is a member of several professional organizations including the Philanthropic Educational Organization (P.E.O), where women support women in education, becoming one of the first indigenous members of the group. She began her journey to pursue a career as a RDN soon after losing her uncle to chronic kidney disease.  Jacqueline continues her education and training at the University of Nevada Las Vegas with her community in mind and is eager to return home where she plans to use the knowledge, she has gained over the course of her RDN journey to support the health and wellness of others.

Harmony & Heritage Track

Kena Leigh Chavez Hinojos is an enrolled member of the Pueblo De Cochiti, NM. She is also from the Hopi Tribe, from the Village of Walpi, Coyote Clan. Kena has worn many hats throughout her career. Recently began her journey as a Peer Support Worker working for Women In Leadership, with women incarcerated being released within 2yrs reconnecting with themselves and their community. Prior worked with beWellnm The Health Exchange, as the Native American Community Outreach Manager, providing statewide outreach on affordable health insurance for Natives. Mrs. Hinojos has been a Case Manager at Haven House Domestic Violence Shelter, where victims gain immediate safety and learn knowledge, skills, and resources to succeed in a life free of violence. She is the former Tewa Women United V.O.I.C.E.S. Program Manager/Advocate Coordinator, a culturally-based response to sexual violence and other trauma related to sexual violence in the diverse communities located in Rio Arriba and northern Santa Fe counties, and the Pueblo and Tribal Nations in New Mexico. Previous to TWU Mrs. Chavez Hinojos worked with both her Pueblo & Hopi Tribes. Former Social Services/ICWA Coordinator for Pueblo De Cochiti and former Project Coordinator for The Hopi-Tewa Women’s Coalition to End Abuse.

Larry Hinojos is a proud father, husband, brother, uncle, son, and survivor. Larry is from Albuquerque and has 15 years of experience with communities across New Mexico. Currently, he is a Health Promotion Specialist at the Health Equity Council and is passionate about working to create positive masculinity and end gender-based violence. Larry has an abundance of lived experience and knowledge from previous positions at the Albuquerque Rape Crisis Center , Coalition Against Violence, and Resolve Personal Safety. Larry serves on the Together For Brothers Board, as well as the Human Rights Committee and Mayor Keller's DV Task Force.

Selina Henderson is a Certified Peer Support Specialist at Presbyterian Healthcare Services under Community Health. She Went to Ultimate Medical Academy and received an Associates for Health and Human Services. She has been blessed with very beautiful and loving family. She was born in Gallup NM and raised on the reservation some of her life, lived in Las Vegas Nevada some, and now in Albuquerque NM. She is a person in long term recovery, and uses her lived experience to help people in her community. She works in the NICU with moms that have babies that are exposed to substances and/or experience depression. Selina works in OB with perinatal, moms that are experiencing Substance Use, and/or have been diagnosed with depression, and in the ER with individuals that have Substance Use, Alcohol Use, have experienced overdose and/or have been diagnosed with depression. She has always had a heart to want to help and support her community to give what she didn’t have and spread hope. She likes to listen to music, play with the kids, dance, and cook.

Maria Bundy is the Certified Peer Support Worker at Presbyterian Community Health. She works in the Emergency Department at Presbyterian Hospital. Maria shares her personal lived experiences in long term recovery and connects people who come into the emergency department with resources and offering encouragement and hope. Maria participates in the New Mexico Tribal Behavioral Health Provider’s Association, Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Relatives Task Force, Coalition to Stop Violence Against Native American Women, and Interim Indian Affairs Committee. Maria is learning about her culture and wants to learn more about her culture and other tribes in the community. Maria is a mother of 3 daughters and is blessed with 4 grandchildren; 3 boys, Angel, Rivers, Elio and 1 beautiful granddaughter; Paisley. And loves to hike, explore in nature, and loves watching football and going to heavy metal concerts. Maria loves sharing about her recovery story because without a story there is no beginning to possibilities for miracles.

Nadine Day is a Senior at Atrisco Heritage Academy High School (AHA). She is sixteen years old, originally from Fort. Defiance/Blue Canyon, Arizona and currently resides in Albuquerque, NM.  She is the Honey Comb Rock people clan born for Red Running into Water. Her parents are Davina Nez and father is Nathaniel Day. She is currently the President for AHA Native Club and former Albuquerque Public Schools Indian Education High school Representative. After high school, she plans on attending Southwestern Indian Polytechnic Institute (SIPI) Albuquerque NM, majoring in Business Administration. Thereafter, she would like to pursue getting her BA from Colorado State. She enjoys long conversation with her best friend, playing with her toddler brother, crafting, fishing, make-up and advocating for the youth with her voice. She loves to be with her grandma and her paternal grandpa.

Entrepreneurial and Business Developments in Indian Country Track

Joshua Zunie (Zuni Pueblo) has directed, written, & produced the film, Rude Girl, & has experience working as an assistant to many iconic Hollywood producers, actors, & directors such as Bob Odenkirk (Better Call Saul; AMC), Antony Star (The Boys: Amazon), Ethan Hawk (Training Day), Roland Emmerich (Independence Day Resurgence), & the directors of Bad Boys for Life. Josh was born on the Zuni reservation, New Mexico. He was inspired by his tribes storytelling tradition to write stories & has moved on to graduate with a B.A. in business economics from Colorado College & earned his M.F.A in television & film producing from Chapman University Dodge College of Film and Media Arts. Since then he has worked on thirteen movie & TV productions & is an advocate for eradicating the stereotypes of Native Americans in television and movies.

Russell F. Pedro, President & CEO of Data Management of New Mexico, LLC, is a member of the Pueblo of Laguna, one of the 19 Pueblo Tribes of New Mexico. Russell is passionate about creating jobs and economic opportunities, by identifying resources and applying valuable business expertise to develop business strategies, promote community & economic development, promote tourism development, and develop training to prepare entrepreneurs, small businesses, and Tribes for future development. Mr. Pedro possesses over 20 years of experience in providing comprehensive business, technical, and economic development services and training to entrepreneurs who are Native-, minority-, veteran-, and women-owned businesses, including Native American Tribes, Tribal Organizations and Native youth in New Mexico, the southwest and across the United States, through past affiliations with the Minority Business Development Agency (MBDA) – Native American Business Enterprise Center, the MBDA Business Center - Santa Fe, the American Indian Alaska Native Tourism Association and the American Indian Chamber of Commerce of New Mexico.

Ryan Martinez is the Program Director for the Tewa Roots Society, an outdoor behavioral health and clinical service provider serving individuals, families, and groups in Nambe, as well as neighboring tribes across New Mexico. Their focus is on providing the most innovative and accessible evidence-based services necessary to help mitigate and address the soaring rates of substance use and mental health-related needs in indigenous populations across the state. Our person-centered approach integrates comprehensive clinical wraparound services, while our community-focused group services provide engaging and prescriptive program options tailored to the unique needs of the group.

Fostering Wellness Across Generations: Native American Behavioral Health Panel Discussion

Marisa Page is an enrolled citizen of the Pawnee Nation of Oklahoma and descendent of the Ponca and Comanche Nation. She received her Bachelor of Arts in Anthropology from the University of New Mexico and Master of Legal Studies with a focus in Indigenous Peoples Law from the University of Oklahoma.  Ms. Page has spent the last 20 years, working, and advocating for Indigenous peoples through various organizations. Her experience includes leadership development, STEM education, community organizing, and fundraising. She is a skilled grant writer and has many years in program development and implementation.

Grace Pratt's given name is K'oy Mahtahn, She is a member of the Kiowa Nation. Currently, She is a 2nd-year undergraduate student at Colorado State University. She is pursuing a BA in Political Science with a double minor in Law, Legal Studies, and Indigenous Studies. She will continue onto law school to pursue her Ph.D. Currently, she is working for Colorado State University as well, her job title is Native American Cultural Center Liaison. She plans big events through the University, her most recent event was CSU TEDx. In her free time, she enjoys painting, reading, swimming, making connections with others, and being Vice President for CSU's women's water polo.

Nadine Day is a Senior at Atrisco Heritage Academy High School (AHA). She is sixteen years old, originally from Fort. Defiance/Blue Canyon, Arizona and currently resides in Albuquerque, NM.  She is the Honey Comb Rock people clan born for Red Running into Water. Her parents are Davina Nez and father is Nathaniel Day. She is currently the President for AHA Native Club and former Albuquerque Public Schools Indian Education High school Representative. After high school, she plans on attending Southwestern Indian Polytechnic Institute (SIPI) Albuquerque NM, majoring in Business Administration. Thereafter, she would like to pursue getting her BA from Colorado State. She enjoys long conversation with her best friend, playing with her toddler brother, crafting, fishing, make-up and advocating for the youth with her voice. She loves to be with her grandma and her paternal grandpa.

Jim Toya is a member of Laguna Pueblo and is currently retired from the Healthcare Administrative field.  He recently consulted on the development of a Home Healthcare Organization established to provide culturally competent home care to the rural senior population of NM.  His experience includes: Native American Veteran Coordinator at the VA Medical Center-providing assistance to veterans seeking healthcare and benefits; Director of the IHS Albuquerque Area; Chief Operating Officer of the NM Cancer Research and Treatment Center; temporary faculty at the UNM Anderson Graduate school of Management-teaching Healthcare Organizational Management; and, Health Systems Administrator at the Acoma-Canoncito-Laguna hospital. Jim and his family returned to NM in 1978 to work for the All Indian Pueblo Council in the development of the NM/Colorado Intertribal Health Authority. He has a Master of Public Health degree in Health Administration from the University of Oklahoma; is a US Marine Corps veteran - a Infantry Officer who served in Quantico, Va; Vietnam (1968-69), Marine Corps Recruit Depot, San Diego and Camp Pendleton.

Camille Waconda-Smith is from Laguna and lsleta Pueblos. She resides in Albuquerque, New Mexico. Her and her family have moved across the country from IN, MD, NV, and back to NM. As of 2023, She is a stay-at-home mother. She homeschools two children and also runs a crafting business full-time called Dreaming Crafts.

Indigenous Resilience, Resistance and Revitalization: Understanding and Overcoming Racism and the Social Construct of Chronic Illness in Indigenous Communities

Healing Soles Through Sacred Soil

2023 Native American Partnership Conference Agenda