Author: sbegay

For Immediate Release: Tribal Council Welcomes New Education Director: Dr. Joseph Claunch 07012024

FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT
Melvin J. Baker, Chairman – 970.563.2320
Summer Begay, Communication Specialist– 970.563.2313
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: July 01, 2024
Tribal Council Welcomes New Education Director: Dr. Joseph Claunch
Southern Ute Indian Reservation – Chairman Melvin J. Baker, Tribal Council, and Executive Officer Lindsay J. Box are delighted to welcome Dr. Joseph Claunch as the new Director of the Department of Education, effective today, July 1, 2024.
“Dr. Claunch’s dedication to fostering academic success and cultural identity within Native American communities is truly inspiring,” said Chairman Baker.  “His extensive experience in education leadership, combined with his passion for serving Indigenous youth, makes him an ideal fit to lead our Department of Education. We look forward to his contributions as we continue to provide our students with a culturally rich and positive educational experience.”
A member of the Puyallup Tribe of Tacoma, Washington, Dr. Claunch has dedicated nearly 20 years to educating and empowering Native American youth. Throughout his career, he has served as a classroom teacher, athletic coach, youth program leader, and most recently, the Executive Director of the Zuni Youth Enrichment Project for the Pueblo of Zuni in New Mexico.
Dr. Claunch holds a Bachelor’s degree in American Indian Studies from Haskell Indian Nations University, a Master’s degree in Education from the University of Oregon, and a Ph.D. in Sport and Exercise Psychology from the University of Kansas.
During this transition, the Department of Education will continue to offer services and assistance to our students, families, and staff. You may contact the Department of Education at 970-563-0237.
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BIA Southern Ute Agency: Wildland Firefighter Vacancy

The Bureau of Indian Affairs Southern Ute Agency is advertising for Wildland Firefighter position. The duty station is Ignacio, Colorado. Applicants must be Firefighter Type 1 (FFT1) certified and have completed the S-290 Training Course. The closing date is July 08, 2024.  Please seek the link to apply: Wildland Firefighter: USAJOBS – Job Announcement

For further inquiry, please contact the Strategic Recruitment Office at 405-768-4060.

Southern Ute Digital Equity Program: July Training

The Southern Ute Digital Equity Program (SUDEP) will provide Microsoft-Power Point Training on July 17th and 18th from 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM. This will be held at the Growth Fund Building, light breakfast and lunch will be provided.

Seating is limited and open to all Southern Ute Tribal Members. The first 10 Tribal Members to sign up and attend the training will receive a $25 gift card to Walmart.

Sign up today! Contact SUDEP at 970-563-5555

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Tribal Council Welcomes New Directors: MacMillan and Langefels

Southern Ute Indian Reservation – Vice Chairman Lorelei Cloud, Tribal Council, and Executive Officer Lindsay J. Box welcomed Elizabeth Quinn MacMillan (photo right) as the new Director of the Southern Ute Cultural Center and Museum this morning. Ms. MacMillan brings a wealth of experience and a deep respect for Indigenous history and culture to this important role.

“We welcome Elizabeth to the team,” said Vice Chairman Lorelei Cloud. “Together we will preserve and share the history of the Nuuchiu.”

MacMillan holds a Bachelor of Arts in History from Washington College and a Master of Arts in Public History from Loyola University Chicago.  Throughout her career, she has gained extensive experience working with cultural institutions and organizations dedicated to preserving the history of the Southwest.  Her previous positions include work with the Bureau of Land Management’s Canyons of the Ancients, the Wheelwright Museum of the American Indian, and most recently, the Center of Southwest Studies at Fort Lewis College.

Tribal Council also welcomed Lizette Langefels (photo left) as the Southern Ute Health Center Director last week. Langefels brings 17 years of experience from Animas Surgical Hospital in addition to holding a Bachelor’s degree in English Language and Literature from Fort Lewis College and a Master of Business Administration with a Health Care emphasis from Adams State University.

Vice Chairman Cloud shared, “The world of healthcare is constantly evolving, presenting both challenges and exciting opportunities. With Lizette’s experience and vision, I am confident we can navigate towards a healthier future.”

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SUSS PSA: Tribal Broadband Modernization Project: Phase II Fiber-to-the-Home Expansion 06142024

FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT:
Melvin J. Baker, Chairman – 970.563.0100
Summer Begay, Communication Specialist – 970.563.2313
FOR RELEASE: June 14, 2024
Tribal Broadband Modernization Project: Phase II Fiber-to-the-Home Expansion
Where: Crews will be working within the Cedar Point and Ignacio Peak subdivisions along the following roads: Shadow Spirit St, Lodge Pole Way, Burning Cedar Ave, Arrow St, Fry Bread Ave, Sagebrush Ave, Elk St, Rolling Thunder Ave, Mountain Dew Cir, Red Dawn Ct, Gray Stroke Ct, Blue Moon Ct, Ignacio Peak Dr & Jefferson Dr. Crews will also be working along the following county roads: CR-516, CR-519, CR-520, CR-509, CR-509A, CR-514, CR-316, CR-317, CR-510 & CR-513.
Construction will take place along the edge of the roadways and/or behind sidewalk. Please see attached maps for more precise locations.
What: The Broadband Project will include trenching, boring, and plowing to install fiber, as well as reclamation and seeding. Construction vehicles and fiber spools will be visible on the edges of roadways.
When: Construction is ongoing. Hours of operation will be from 7:00 a.m. until 5:00 p.m.
Travel Impact: Parking lanes, road shoulders, sidewalks and alleyways may be temporarily closed during operations. Motorists will be required to reduce speeds and travel safely around the construction taking place on the side of the road. Please remember to slow down in construction zones, eliminate distractions and drive with extra caution. Motorists are also urged to watch for ­workers and equipment along the roadway.
In the event of an emergency or to report a reckless driver, please contact the Southern Ute Police Department at 970-563-4401.
For more information about the Tribal Broadband Modernization Project, please visithttps://www.southernute-nsn.gov/broadband-modernization-project/.
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For Immediate Release: Southern Ute Indian Tribe Celebrates Bill Protecting Self-Determination

FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT

Melvin J. Baker, Chairman – 970.563.2320

Summer Begay, Communication Specialist– 970.563.2313

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: June 7, 2024

Southern Ute Indian Tribe Celebrates Bill Protecting Self-Determination

Southern Ute Indian Reservation – A major victory for tribal sovereignty unfolded yesterday as Governor Jared Polis signed Senate Bill 24-193, the “Protect Tribal Lands from Unauthorized Annexation Bill,” into law on June 6, 2024. This legislation arose from the City of Durango’s attempt to annex land on the Southern Ute Indian Reservation. The bill received overwhelming bipartisan support, passing unanimously through both houses of the Colorado legislature. This strong backing underscores the widespread recognition of Tribal self-governance.

“This is a momentous day for Colorado,” shared Chairman Melvin J. Baker. “The Southern Ute Indian Tribe is incredibly grateful to the sponsors of this bill for their unwavering support. We thank Senator Jessie Danielson, Senator Cleave Simpson, Majority Leader Monica Duran, and Minority Leader Rose Pugliese. Their commitment echoes the deep respect Coloradans have for Tribal sovereignty and the sanctity of Reservation lands. Together, we are sending a clear message: collaboration thrives when we honor treaties and respect Tribal sovereignty.”

Vice Chairman Lorelei Cloud echoed these sentiments, “The Southern Ute Indian Tribe has a long history of championing initiatives that uplift and benefit our local community. This bill aligns perfectly with that commitment. By ensuring our right to self-determination and a voice in actions that impact our Reservation, we will continue serving our People and strengthening the communities that call our Reservation home.”

The bill itself simply necessitates the Tribe’s consent. It ensures that any future annexation efforts within the Reservation’s boundaries must involve the Tribe’s meaningful participation. This crucial step guarantees public safety, environmental responsibility, protection of cultural resources, and the establishment of necessary agreements. With this legislation in place, Colorado can proudly stand as a model for strong and respectful relationships with its Tribes.

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Natural Resources Field Day

The InterTribal Agriculture Council Southwest Region, Southern Ute Indian Tribe, and the Southern Ute Department of Natural Resources present the Natural Resources Field Day!
This event is for Southern Ute Tribal Members and will be at the Multi-Purpose Facility from 10:00 AM to 3:30 PM.
Monday, June 10, 2024 | Youth Field Day
  • Registration: https://bit.ly/SUteYouth
Tuesday, June 11, 2024 | Adult Field Day 
Attendees will gain insight into resources for regenerative economies, soil health, local regional seeds, demonstrations, and interactive hands-on activities!
This event does not have a registration fee. For more information, contact Janice Lucero (InterTribal Agriculture Council SW Technical Assistant) at  505-514-7438 or janice@indianag.org.
-Summer Begay, Communication Specialist