06/11/2026
Every decision made by Tribal leaders helps shape the future of our Nations, communities, cultures, and citizens. Native women have always been central to that work — leading as decision makers, knowledge keepers, caretakers, elected leaders, and public servants. Across generations, Native women continue to lead with resilience, responsibility, vision, and a deep commitment to future generations.
At NCAI Mid Year, join us for a powerful panel featuring Native women leaders serving across NCAI and Tribal government:
- Christie Modlin, NCAI Recording Secretary and Tribal Secretary of the Iowa Tribe of Oklahoma
- Lora Ann Chaisson, NCAI Southeast Regional Vice President and Principal Chief of the United Houma Nation
- Ashley Cornforth, NCAI Treasurer and Secretary/Treasurer of the Shakopee Mdewakanton Sioux Community
- Geneva Mojado, NCAI Pacific Regional Vice President and Vice Chairwoman of the Soboba Band of Luiseño Indians
- Pamela Shaw, NCAI Eastern Oklahoma Alternate Vice President and Speaker of the Osage Nation Congress
Moderated by Marissa Miakonda Cummings, Founder and Principal of Buffalo Tail Consulting, this conversation will explore what inspired these leaders to serve, the challenges they have navigated, the impact of Native women’s leadership in our communities, and their advice for the next generation.