2025 NNAHRA 29th ANNUAL CONFERENCE BREAKOUT SESSIONS
Track
Location
Legal
Grand Ballroom Main
Best Practices
Summit B
Leadership
Summit A
HR Solutions & Technology
Grand Ballroom East
Benefits/Compensation
Elderberry
NDN Soup for the HR Soul
Grand Ballroom West
Next-Level Leadership
Cottonwood
9/29/2025
12:45pm - 1:45pm
Department: Legal
Location: Grand Ballroom Main
AI in HR: Managing Legal Risks & Adapting
Jon Haney Anna Cole
Location: Grand Ballroom Main
AI in HR: Managing Legal Risks & Adapting
Jon Haney Anna Cole
Department: Best Practices
Location: Summit B
Activating Tribal Values in People Practices & Development Programs
Hannah Bratterud This session explores how tribal organizations can breathe life into their HR practices and training programs and ultimately activate their purpose by intentionally embedding their unique cultural values into every facet of employee development. Through three compelling case studies, we’ll examine how tribes have transformed legacy programs, coaching culture, and performance management by grounding them in core tribal values. Attendees will gain practical insights and inspiration to assess and evolve their own people practices to honor what matters most in their communities.
Location: Summit B
Activating Tribal Values in People Practices & Development Programs
Hannah Bratterud This session explores how tribal organizations can breathe life into their HR practices and training programs and ultimately activate their purpose by intentionally embedding their unique cultural values into every facet of employee development. Through three compelling case studies, we’ll examine how tribes have transformed legacy programs, coaching culture, and performance management by grounding them in core tribal values. Attendees will gain practical insights and inspiration to assess and evolve their own people practices to honor what matters most in their communities.
Department: Leadership
Location: Summit A
Culturally Rooted Leadership — Leading From Identity: Reclaiming Leadership Through Native Values
Paula Allen In this session, we’ll explore how Native identity, values, and cultural knowledge can serve as the foundation for powerful, transformative leadership. Too often, leadership models are imported and imposed — leaving little space for the wisdom already embedded in Indigenous ways of leading. Together, we’ll reconnect with the leadership practices of our ancestors and apply them to today’s workplace challenges. Whether you lead a department, a team, or a nation, this session offers a roadmap for leading with integrity, relationality, and cultural strength.
Location: Summit A
Culturally Rooted Leadership — Leading From Identity: Reclaiming Leadership Through Native Values
Paula Allen In this session, we’ll explore how Native identity, values, and cultural knowledge can serve as the foundation for powerful, transformative leadership. Too often, leadership models are imported and imposed — leaving little space for the wisdom already embedded in Indigenous ways of leading. Together, we’ll reconnect with the leadership practices of our ancestors and apply them to today’s workplace challenges. Whether you lead a department, a team, or a nation, this session offers a roadmap for leading with integrity, relationality, and cultural strength.
Department: HR Solutions & Technology
Location: Grand Ballroom East
Beyond the Algorithm: Igniting Passion, People, and Possibilities With AI
Charles Walters As artificial intelligence continues to revolutionize the workplace, HR professionals stand at the forefront of a transformative shift — one that goes beyond automation and efficiency to truly ignite passion, empower people, and unlock new possibilities. This session explores how AI is reshaping HR functions, from learning and development to talent acquisition and employee engagement. We will break down real-world applications, debunk common AI myths, and provide actionable strategies for leveraging AI in a way that enhances human connection rather than replacing it. Attendees will leave with a renewed perspective on how AI can drive both business success and meaningful workplace experiences while keeping HR professionals at the heart of innovation.
Location: Grand Ballroom East
Beyond the Algorithm: Igniting Passion, People, and Possibilities With AI
Charles Walters As artificial intelligence continues to revolutionize the workplace, HR professionals stand at the forefront of a transformative shift — one that goes beyond automation and efficiency to truly ignite passion, empower people, and unlock new possibilities. This session explores how AI is reshaping HR functions, from learning and development to talent acquisition and employee engagement. We will break down real-world applications, debunk common AI myths, and provide actionable strategies for leveraging AI in a way that enhances human connection rather than replacing it. Attendees will leave with a renewed perspective on how AI can drive both business success and meaningful workplace experiences while keeping HR professionals at the heart of innovation.
Department: Benefits/Compensation
Location: Elderberry
Compensation Clarity: Breaking Down Pay Compression Rachel Overmier Karla BylundPay compression refers to the minimal difference in pay between employees who have varying levels of experience, skills, or tenure. This situation can occur when there is little distinction in salary between seasoned and newly hired personnel performing the same job, as well as between supervisors and their subordinates. It can also affect the pay ranges between successive job grades within a compensation structure.
Location: Elderberry
Compensation Clarity: Breaking Down Pay Compression Rachel Overmier Karla BylundPay compression refers to the minimal difference in pay between employees who have varying levels of experience, skills, or tenure. This situation can occur when there is little distinction in salary between seasoned and newly hired personnel performing the same job, as well as between supervisors and their subordinates. It can also affect the pay ranges between successive job grades within a compensation structure.
Department: NDN Soup for the HR Soul
Location: Grand Ballroom West
Carefully Cultivating a People-First Culture
Niki Ramirez Rooted in the wisdom of community and connection, this session invites HR and organizational leaders to explore how time-honored values can guide the way toward a truly people-first workplace culture. Together, we’ll examine six key strategies that blend compassion, equity, and growth with practical leadership tools. From creating inclusive environments to supporting emotional well-being and deepening relationships with team members, we’ll explore how HR professionals can serve as culture carriers — preserving what is sacred while inspiring what’s next. Walk away with fresh insights and meaningful practices that strengthen your people, your programs, and your purpose.
Location: Grand Ballroom West
Carefully Cultivating a People-First Culture
Niki Ramirez Rooted in the wisdom of community and connection, this session invites HR and organizational leaders to explore how time-honored values can guide the way toward a truly people-first workplace culture. Together, we’ll examine six key strategies that blend compassion, equity, and growth with practical leadership tools. From creating inclusive environments to supporting emotional well-being and deepening relationships with team members, we’ll explore how HR professionals can serve as culture carriers — preserving what is sacred while inspiring what’s next. Walk away with fresh insights and meaningful practices that strengthen your people, your programs, and your purpose.
Department: Empowering Change-Makers
Location: Cottonwood
Tribal Leadership, Strategic Change, and Intervention
Terilynne KistoMonica Atone
This presentation is geared toward all tribal governments and nations across the country. It will discuss tribal leadership, strategic changes, and interventions from a former tribal leader's perspective, and how HR leadership can build stronger working relationships with tribal leaders to successfully fulfill their vision and goals for a strong future.
Location: Cottonwood
Tribal Leadership, Strategic Change, and Intervention
Terilynne KistoMonica Atone
This presentation is geared toward all tribal governments and nations across the country. It will discuss tribal leadership, strategic changes, and interventions from a former tribal leader's perspective, and how HR leadership can build stronger working relationships with tribal leaders to successfully fulfill their vision and goals for a strong future.
2:00pm - 3:00pm
Department: Legal
Location: Grand Ballroom Main
Why Tribal HR Is Different: a Guide for Newcomers
Corey Hinton If you are brand new to HR or are from outside the community, HR in Indigenous Country is unique and can be confusing. This workshop is for HR professionals transitioning from working for non-Tribal employers to working for Tribal governments and their business enterprises. What does it mean to be a sovereign nation or to have immunity from a lawsuit? Why shouldn’t we call the Department of Labor for guidance and advance? What’s wrong with hanging OSHA posters? This presentation will explain the legal basis for the way Tribes govern labor and employment relations, as well as provide practical advice for those new to HR in Indigenous Country to help them navigate the complexities of working for a Tribal government or enterprise.
Location: Grand Ballroom Main
Why Tribal HR Is Different: a Guide for Newcomers
Corey Hinton If you are brand new to HR or are from outside the community, HR in Indigenous Country is unique and can be confusing. This workshop is for HR professionals transitioning from working for non-Tribal employers to working for Tribal governments and their business enterprises. What does it mean to be a sovereign nation or to have immunity from a lawsuit? Why shouldn’t we call the Department of Labor for guidance and advance? What’s wrong with hanging OSHA posters? This presentation will explain the legal basis for the way Tribes govern labor and employment relations, as well as provide practical advice for those new to HR in Indigenous Country to help them navigate the complexities of working for a Tribal government or enterprise.
Department: Best Practices
Location: Summit B
LGBTQ+ Best Practices
Solicia Aguilar
Marcus DeMaria Arana
Kodak Alcantra-Rodriguez
Juan Angel Reynoso The session we are proposing will be an LGBTQ best practices training with a possible panel, informing HR professionals on how to best support LGBTQ, QTBIPOC, Two-Spirit, and Indigiqueer individuals. It will cover how culture informs gender identity, specifically for QTBIPOC (queer, trans, Black, Indigenous, people of color) individuals, who often avoid seeking services from LGBTQ-specific orgs due to those groups commonly catering to a white-centered demographic. Instead, they may turn to culturally aligned organizations that support their cultural background, which might be less LGBTQ-informed.
Location: Summit B
LGBTQ+ Best Practices
Solicia Aguilar
Marcus DeMaria Arana
Kodak Alcantra-Rodriguez
Juan Angel Reynoso The session we are proposing will be an LGBTQ best practices training with a possible panel, informing HR professionals on how to best support LGBTQ, QTBIPOC, Two-Spirit, and Indigiqueer individuals. It will cover how culture informs gender identity, specifically for QTBIPOC (queer, trans, Black, Indigenous, people of color) individuals, who often avoid seeking services from LGBTQ-specific orgs due to those groups commonly catering to a white-centered demographic. Instead, they may turn to culturally aligned organizations that support their cultural background, which might be less LGBTQ-informed.
Department: Leadership
Location: Summit A
Quiet Quitting: How to Identify It and Create a Culture That Engages Employees
Jerrod Murr Quiet quitting is when employees continue to put in the minimum amount of effort to keep their jobs but don't go the extra mile for their employer. This might mean not speaking up in meetings, not volunteering for tasks, and refusing to work overtime. Quiet quitting is a new form of disengagement. In this workshop, we will discuss the four major gateways of disengagement and how to overcome them.
Location: Summit A
Quiet Quitting: How to Identify It and Create a Culture That Engages Employees
Jerrod Murr Quiet quitting is when employees continue to put in the minimum amount of effort to keep their jobs but don't go the extra mile for their employer. This might mean not speaking up in meetings, not volunteering for tasks, and refusing to work overtime. Quiet quitting is a new form of disengagement. In this workshop, we will discuss the four major gateways of disengagement and how to overcome them.
Targeted Outcomes:
- Identify four gateways of disengagement
- Understand the signs and disadvantages of quiet quitting
- Identify the four counterparts of quiet quitting
Department: HR Solutions & Technology
Location: Grand Ballroom East
How AI is Revolutionizing HR: Efficiency, Empowerment, and the Future of Work in Indigenous Country Ruth Tidmore Artificial Intelligence (AI) is no longer just a futuristic concept — it’s here and already transforming the HR landscape. This session will explore how tools like ChatGPT are being used to streamline HR workflows, enhance employee engagement, support decision-making, and elevate the role of HR professionals as strategic leaders.
Attendees will learn practical ways AI can assist with day-to-day responsibilities such as policy development, recruiting, internal communication, and performance management — as well as more sensitive areas like applicant interviewing and workplace investigations.
Location: Grand Ballroom East
How AI is Revolutionizing HR: Efficiency, Empowerment, and the Future of Work in Indigenous Country Ruth Tidmore Artificial Intelligence (AI) is no longer just a futuristic concept — it’s here and already transforming the HR landscape. This session will explore how tools like ChatGPT are being used to streamline HR workflows, enhance employee engagement, support decision-making, and elevate the role of HR professionals as strategic leaders.
Attendees will learn practical ways AI can assist with day-to-day responsibilities such as policy development, recruiting, internal communication, and performance management — as well as more sensitive areas like applicant interviewing and workplace investigations.
Department: Benefits/Compensation
Location: Elderberry
Let’s Put a PEP in Your Step — a PEP Talk for Tribal HR Brahm Rossiter
Marcus Sasaki and
Jake Taylor Tribal organizations face unique challenges in providing competitive and cost-effective retirement benefits for their employees. One emerging solution is the Pooled Employer Plan (PEP), which allows multiple employers to participate in a single retirement plan, reducing administrative complexity and costs while expanding access to quality investment options. This session will explore how a PEP can support tribal employers by streamlining plan administration, reducing audit expenses, and alleviating fiduciary responsibilities — helping HR and leadership teams focus on their workforce rather than complex retirement plan management.
Location: Elderberry
Let’s Put a PEP in Your Step — a PEP Talk for Tribal HR Brahm Rossiter
Marcus Sasaki and
Jake Taylor Tribal organizations face unique challenges in providing competitive and cost-effective retirement benefits for their employees. One emerging solution is the Pooled Employer Plan (PEP), which allows multiple employers to participate in a single retirement plan, reducing administrative complexity and costs while expanding access to quality investment options. This session will explore how a PEP can support tribal employers by streamlining plan administration, reducing audit expenses, and alleviating fiduciary responsibilities — helping HR and leadership teams focus on their workforce rather than complex retirement plan management.
Department: NDN Soup for the HR Soul
Location: Grand Ballroom West
From Burnout to Balance: Mental Health Strategies That Actually Work
Jake Aguas Beyond EAPs — let’s talk burnout prevention, trauma-informed care, and cultural healing. Relevance: Addresses one of the most urgent issues in HR across Indian Country.
Location: Grand Ballroom West
From Burnout to Balance: Mental Health Strategies That Actually Work
Jake Aguas Beyond EAPs — let’s talk burnout prevention, trauma-informed care, and cultural healing. Relevance: Addresses one of the most urgent issues in HR across Indian Country.
Department: Empowering Change-Makers
Location: Cottonwood
Leading With Heart: Transformative Leadership for Thriving Organizations in Indigenous Country Christopher Orozco This session explores the vital role of leadership in shaping resilient and engaged organizations throughout Indigenous Country. Grounded in Gallup’s findings that managers account for 70% of the variance in employee engagement, and that employees need trust, stability, compassion, and hope from their leaders, this session provides actionable strategies to empower HR professionals to inspire their team and drive meaningful change. Attendees will discover how leadership development rooted in strengths-based approaches, emotional intelligence, and cultural authenticity can transform their organizations and Tribal communities.
Location: Cottonwood
Leading With Heart: Transformative Leadership for Thriving Organizations in Indigenous Country Christopher Orozco This session explores the vital role of leadership in shaping resilient and engaged organizations throughout Indigenous Country. Grounded in Gallup’s findings that managers account for 70% of the variance in employee engagement, and that employees need trust, stability, compassion, and hope from their leaders, this session provides actionable strategies to empower HR professionals to inspire their team and drive meaningful change. Attendees will discover how leadership development rooted in strengths-based approaches, emotional intelligence, and cultural authenticity can transform their organizations and Tribal communities.
3:15pm - 4:15pm
Department: Legal
Location: Grand Ballroom Main
Investigative Interviews: Getting All the Facts and Being Able to Make Conclusions With Confidence
Anna Cole Dan RoseAsking the right questions and getting the information you need is at the core of all investigations. It takes significant planning and preparation to do them well, particularly when there are complicated facts or multiple allegations or when a witness is uncooperative or hostile. In this workshop, we will give you clear guidance on how and where you should conduct interviews, how to prepare effective questions, techniques for dealing with reluctant or hostile witnesses, and other important tips. The workshop will include a brief mock interview to provide a real-life demonstration of good and bad techniques, as well as time for attendee questions.
Location: Grand Ballroom Main
Investigative Interviews: Getting All the Facts and Being Able to Make Conclusions With Confidence
Anna Cole Dan RoseAsking the right questions and getting the information you need is at the core of all investigations. It takes significant planning and preparation to do them well, particularly when there are complicated facts or multiple allegations or when a witness is uncooperative or hostile. In this workshop, we will give you clear guidance on how and where you should conduct interviews, how to prepare effective questions, techniques for dealing with reluctant or hostile witnesses, and other important tips. The workshop will include a brief mock interview to provide a real-life demonstration of good and bad techniques, as well as time for attendee questions.
Department: Benefits/Compensation
Location: Elderberry
Navigating the New Normal: Employee Benefits Under the 2025 Administration Liliana Salazar Wondering what the new administration will mean for your employee benefits programs and your employees? This session will discuss the most recent developments impacting employee benefit plans at the federal and state levels, including new enforcement actions from the IRS and Department of Labor on benefit matters and strategies to avoid the imposition of costly penalties and fines. We will discuss how to avoid receiving IRS penalty notices enforcing the Affordable Care Act (ACA), what to do if you receive one, and how to accurately complete Forms 1094 and 1095-C for the 2025 calendar year. The session will also review Washington and Oregon laws and their impact on your group health plans, as well as the new administration’s objectives and priorities for 2025 and their impact on your benefits programs and employees.
Location: Elderberry
Navigating the New Normal: Employee Benefits Under the 2025 Administration Liliana Salazar Wondering what the new administration will mean for your employee benefits programs and your employees? This session will discuss the most recent developments impacting employee benefit plans at the federal and state levels, including new enforcement actions from the IRS and Department of Labor on benefit matters and strategies to avoid the imposition of costly penalties and fines. We will discuss how to avoid receiving IRS penalty notices enforcing the Affordable Care Act (ACA), what to do if you receive one, and how to accurately complete Forms 1094 and 1095-C for the 2025 calendar year. The session will also review Washington and Oregon laws and their impact on your group health plans, as well as the new administration’s objectives and priorities for 2025 and their impact on your benefits programs and employees.
Department: Leadership
Location: Summit A
Internships: Developing Programs to Uplift and Inspire
Cheyenne Sanders
Anna Hohag Krista Saenz Career internship programs are powerful tools to empower the next generation of Native leaders. When developed thoughtfully, internship programs can also be a space to develop lifelong mentorship connections. In this session, we will discuss the benefits and logistics of building an internship program at your workplace. This workshop will provide tools to build a program in any professional space, including but not limited to the Office of Tribal Council, self-governance, legal, finance, human resources, education, and more. Led by a panel of professional Native women, we discuss the power of an internships to empower, inspire, and grow as leaders. Consider this workshop if you are looking for ways to inspire positive change in your workplace or take on a new leadership role in your office.
Key Points:
1. Learn how to develop an internship policy and review a model example.
2. Review sample compensation and benefits for internships, including a school-credit model.
3. Learn how to develop a strong mentorship program in your office by considering best practices.
4. Learn how Native American preference laws might impact recruitment and hiring.
5. Consider potential benefits of an internship program in your office, including — but not
limited to — creating a pathway to employment, reputational gain, and increased office morale.
6. Walk away from this panel with sample policies and a clear understanding of the next steps to build a new internship program.
Location: Summit A
Internships: Developing Programs to Uplift and Inspire
Cheyenne Sanders
Anna Hohag Krista Saenz Career internship programs are powerful tools to empower the next generation of Native leaders. When developed thoughtfully, internship programs can also be a space to develop lifelong mentorship connections. In this session, we will discuss the benefits and logistics of building an internship program at your workplace. This workshop will provide tools to build a program in any professional space, including but not limited to the Office of Tribal Council, self-governance, legal, finance, human resources, education, and more. Led by a panel of professional Native women, we discuss the power of an internships to empower, inspire, and grow as leaders. Consider this workshop if you are looking for ways to inspire positive change in your workplace or take on a new leadership role in your office.
Key Points:
1. Learn how to develop an internship policy and review a model example.
2. Review sample compensation and benefits for internships, including a school-credit model.
3. Learn how to develop a strong mentorship program in your office by considering best practices.
4. Learn how Native American preference laws might impact recruitment and hiring.
5. Consider potential benefits of an internship program in your office, including — but not
limited to — creating a pathway to employment, reputational gain, and increased office morale.
6. Walk away from this panel with sample policies and a clear understanding of the next steps to build a new internship program.
Department: HR Solutions & Technology
Location: Grand Ballroom East
Leveraging AI and Predictive Analytics to Mitigate Employee Risks and Overcome Challenges: Empowering HR Teams for Success Jeff Yates Jared Smith As the workforce landscape and employee risks continue to accelerate and evolve, HR teams are facing unprecedented challenges to accomplish more with less. AI and Predictive Analytics show promise in alleviating these current and future challenges — yet these technology advancements present many concerns for HR professionals and other business leaders, including concerns for the well-being and security of their own jobs. This presentation will explore how AI and Predictive Analytics integrate seamlessly into alleviating the most common employee lifecycle risks facing employers today: challenging applicant pools, bad hires, disengagement, mental wellness, misconduct, turnover, and unemployment. Our presentation will explore innovative, data-driven strategies that equip HR professionals with the knowledge, strategies, and tools they need to address these critical issues head-on.
Location: Grand Ballroom East
Leveraging AI and Predictive Analytics to Mitigate Employee Risks and Overcome Challenges: Empowering HR Teams for Success Jeff Yates Jared Smith As the workforce landscape and employee risks continue to accelerate and evolve, HR teams are facing unprecedented challenges to accomplish more with less. AI and Predictive Analytics show promise in alleviating these current and future challenges — yet these technology advancements present many concerns for HR professionals and other business leaders, including concerns for the well-being and security of their own jobs. This presentation will explore how AI and Predictive Analytics integrate seamlessly into alleviating the most common employee lifecycle risks facing employers today: challenging applicant pools, bad hires, disengagement, mental wellness, misconduct, turnover, and unemployment. Our presentation will explore innovative, data-driven strategies that equip HR professionals with the knowledge, strategies, and tools they need to address these critical issues head-on.
Department: Empowering Change-Makers
Location: Cottonwood
Planning for Tomorrow: Executive-Level Succession in Tribal Organizations Kenneth Pearson Strong leadership succession planning is vital for sustaining sovereignty, ensuring governance stability, and preparing future leaders within tribal organizations. Without a structured plan, leadership transitions can become reactive rather than strategic, leading to instability and a loss of institutional knowledge. This session will provide HR and organizational development (OD) professionals with a proven succession planning framework that incorporates the Nine-Box Assessment Model — a widely used tool to evaluate leadership potential and readiness. Attendees will learn how to identify high-potential employees, develop leadership competencies, and create structured career pathways that align with their tribal nation’s unique needs and cultural values. By integrating structured leadership evaluation, mentorship programs, and cultural knowledge transfer, tribal organizations can create sustainable leadership pipelines that ensure continuity for future generations while reinforcing sovereignty and self-determination.
Location: Cottonwood
Planning for Tomorrow: Executive-Level Succession in Tribal Organizations Kenneth Pearson Strong leadership succession planning is vital for sustaining sovereignty, ensuring governance stability, and preparing future leaders within tribal organizations. Without a structured plan, leadership transitions can become reactive rather than strategic, leading to instability and a loss of institutional knowledge. This session will provide HR and organizational development (OD) professionals with a proven succession planning framework that incorporates the Nine-Box Assessment Model — a widely used tool to evaluate leadership potential and readiness. Attendees will learn how to identify high-potential employees, develop leadership competencies, and create structured career pathways that align with their tribal nation’s unique needs and cultural values. By integrating structured leadership evaluation, mentorship programs, and cultural knowledge transfer, tribal organizations can create sustainable leadership pipelines that ensure continuity for future generations while reinforcing sovereignty and self-determination.
Department: NDN Soup for the HR Soul
Location: Grand Ballroom West
Level Up Your Life: Conquering the Work-Life Balance Battle
Cindy Rowe Are you a professional juggling multiple projects, deadlines, and client demands, as well as a personal life? If so, this session is for you! Join us as we explore the challenges of workaholism and the importance of finding harmony between your professional and personal life. Discover how to set boundaries, manage your time effectively, prioritize tasks, and practice self-kindness to achieve a fulfilling and sustainable career.
Location: Grand Ballroom West
Level Up Your Life: Conquering the Work-Life Balance Battle
Cindy Rowe Are you a professional juggling multiple projects, deadlines, and client demands, as well as a personal life? If so, this session is for you! Join us as we explore the challenges of workaholism and the importance of finding harmony between your professional and personal life. Discover how to set boundaries, manage your time effectively, prioritize tasks, and practice self-kindness to achieve a fulfilling and sustainable career.
Department: Best Practices
Location: Summit B
Building Bridges: Enhancing Communication and EQ
Diane Ristau Carrie Beaudette Communication! It can be a source of frustration and misunderstanding, or it can result in meaningful connections and a strong team environment. Effective communication starts with understanding yourself and those around you. Join this engaging and interactive session, where you’ll get to complete a mini assessment on your communication style and learn the power of EQ (emotional intelligence). You’ll then use this information to understand how you can immediately begin communicating more effectively with others and help your team do the same.
Location: Summit B
Building Bridges: Enhancing Communication and EQ
Diane Ristau Carrie Beaudette Communication! It can be a source of frustration and misunderstanding, or it can result in meaningful connections and a strong team environment. Effective communication starts with understanding yourself and those around you. Join this engaging and interactive session, where you’ll get to complete a mini assessment on your communication style and learn the power of EQ (emotional intelligence). You’ll then use this information to understand how you can immediately begin communicating more effectively with others and help your team do the same.
9/30/2025
10:15am - 11:15am
Department: Legal
Location: Grand Ballroom Main
Navigating the River: Assessing and Understanding the Strategic and Fundamental Legal Issues in Your Handbook
Corey Hinton
Kathleen Wade This workshop will analyze and assess the key legal principles in every handbook and help you review your current handbook and develop one that complies with the tribe’s legal rules while meeting the needs of both employees and HR. We will discuss the legal topics every handbook should include and how best to separate employee policies from the procedures HR needs to implement the handbook. The presentation will include hot legal topics such as drug testing policies, social media, and important ways to reinforce tribal sovereignty through your handbook.
Location: Grand Ballroom Main
Navigating the River: Assessing and Understanding the Strategic and Fundamental Legal Issues in Your Handbook
Corey Hinton
Kathleen Wade This workshop will analyze and assess the key legal principles in every handbook and help you review your current handbook and develop one that complies with the tribe’s legal rules while meeting the needs of both employees and HR. We will discuss the legal topics every handbook should include and how best to separate employee policies from the procedures HR needs to implement the handbook. The presentation will include hot legal topics such as drug testing policies, social media, and important ways to reinforce tribal sovereignty through your handbook.
Department: Best Practices
Location: Summit B
Effective HR Departments — A CEO's Perspective
Tonia Leaureaux
Frank Tecumseh
Mike Bean
Location: Summit B
Effective HR Departments — A CEO's Perspective
Tonia Leaureaux
Frank Tecumseh
Mike Bean
- Understanding CEO expectations as it relates to leading an HR department
- Identifying obstacles that may be hindering HR progress
- Metrics and other tools that help CEOs see the value in HR
- Capacity building for HR departments
- Understanding what makes an effective HR department • Biggest challenges that affect HR operations • CEO advice to HR leaders • Measures of success used to determine overall HR effectiveness
- Biggest challenges that affect HR operations
- CEO advice to HR leaders
- Measures of success used to determine overall HR effectiveness
- The importance of branding as it relates to talent acquisition
- HR metrics — most helpful and why
- Ensuring success with tribal development programs
- HR and technology trade-offs
- HR vs. finance — how to strike a balance between competing interests
- HR structure — advisor or decision-maker?
Department: Leadership
Location: Summit A
ReNEW Your Success: Lead With the Power of ReNewal in Indigenous Country
Haydee Antezana In this high-energy and cutting-edge session, you’ll discover the skill of ReNewal — your superpower to ensure you are future fit for success as an HR leader. In these uncertain times of “what’s next?,” being an HR professional demands more than just anticipation — it calls for purposeful transformation. You’ll walk away with powerful, actionable tools to ensure you are a standout leader in Indigenous Country.
Location: Summit A
ReNEW Your Success: Lead With the Power of ReNewal in Indigenous Country
Haydee Antezana In this high-energy and cutting-edge session, you’ll discover the skill of ReNewal — your superpower to ensure you are future fit for success as an HR leader. In these uncertain times of “what’s next?,” being an HR professional demands more than just anticipation — it calls for purposeful transformation. You’ll walk away with powerful, actionable tools to ensure you are a standout leader in Indigenous Country.
Department: HR Solutions & Technology
Location: Grand Ballroom East
The Creative HR Revolution: Tech Tools That Are Changing the Game
Pete Rogriguez In today’s rapidly evolving workplace, HR professionals in Native American tribes and organizations face unique challenges: balancing culture with modern workforce demands, fostering employee growth, and integrating innovative tools to enhance efficiency. Drawing from my extensive expertise in HR, training and development, content creation, AI, graphic design, podcasting, and technology, this session offers actionable strategies to empower HR professionals. Attendees will discover how to harness cutting-edge tools and creative approaches to streamline processes, engage employees, and build training programs.
Location: Grand Ballroom East
The Creative HR Revolution: Tech Tools That Are Changing the Game
Pete Rogriguez In today’s rapidly evolving workplace, HR professionals in Native American tribes and organizations face unique challenges: balancing culture with modern workforce demands, fostering employee growth, and integrating innovative tools to enhance efficiency. Drawing from my extensive expertise in HR, training and development, content creation, AI, graphic design, podcasting, and technology, this session offers actionable strategies to empower HR professionals. Attendees will discover how to harness cutting-edge tools and creative approaches to streamline processes, engage employees, and build training programs.
Department: Benefits/Compensation
Location: Elderberry
AI Is Reshaping HR. Here’s How to Lead, Not Lag. Marcel Ocampo Mary Eccles Therese Rubio HR teams are being challenged to do more with fewer resources — especially when it comes to managing employee benefits. The right technology can turn a time-consuming, manual process into a strategic advantage. This session explores how AI and automation can streamline benefits administration, reduce operational overhead, and enhance the employee experience. You’ll learn how to scale your benefits function without adding headcount, maintain a personalized touch while increasing efficiency, and choose tools that align with your organization’s goals. Leave with practical strategies, real-world examples, and a roadmap for driving adoption and leading change in your benefits strategy.
Location: Elderberry
AI Is Reshaping HR. Here’s How to Lead, Not Lag. Marcel Ocampo Mary Eccles Therese Rubio HR teams are being challenged to do more with fewer resources — especially when it comes to managing employee benefits. The right technology can turn a time-consuming, manual process into a strategic advantage. This session explores how AI and automation can streamline benefits administration, reduce operational overhead, and enhance the employee experience. You’ll learn how to scale your benefits function without adding headcount, maintain a personalized touch while increasing efficiency, and choose tools that align with your organization’s goals. Leave with practical strategies, real-world examples, and a roadmap for driving adoption and leading change in your benefits strategy.
Department: NDN Soup for the HR Soul
Location: Grand Ballroom West
Self-Induced Attitude Adjustments — Executive Coaching for HR Practitioners to Maintain Sanity in Insane Situations
Cristin Heyns-Bousliman
Sam Bolen This is a compelling session designed for HR professionals who want to enhance their leadership skills while maintaining their well-being. With over 40 years of combined experience in high-stress HR leadership roles, this dynamic speaker duo will bring a wealth of knowledge and practical insights. Having both given and received world-class executive coaching, they are eager to share their expertise with the NNAHRA community. This session aims to equip HR practitioners with simple and easy-to-implement-tools needed to foster exceptional workplace cultures and personal resilience amidst the challenges of their profession.
Location: Grand Ballroom West
Self-Induced Attitude Adjustments — Executive Coaching for HR Practitioners to Maintain Sanity in Insane Situations
Cristin Heyns-Bousliman
Sam Bolen This is a compelling session designed for HR professionals who want to enhance their leadership skills while maintaining their well-being. With over 40 years of combined experience in high-stress HR leadership roles, this dynamic speaker duo will bring a wealth of knowledge and practical insights. Having both given and received world-class executive coaching, they are eager to share their expertise with the NNAHRA community. This session aims to equip HR practitioners with simple and easy-to-implement-tools needed to foster exceptional workplace cultures and personal resilience amidst the challenges of their profession.
Department: Empowering Change-Makers
Location: Cottonwood
The Three Responsibilities of a Leader: How to Use the SBI Coaching Model To Create Conversations for Today’s Workforce
Deana Scott
In today's dynamic Indigenous business arena, effective leadership goes beyond managing tasks — it’s about guiding people with purpose. This interactive 60-minute session explores the three core responsibilities of a leader — setting direction, building alignment, and creating commitment — through the lens of the SBI (Situation-Behavior-Impact) Coaching Model. This is geared specifically to human resources professionals and tribal leaders.
Participants will learn how to create meaningful, actionable coaching conversations that resonate with today’s workforce. By focusing on data-driven feedback and objective language, leaders can build trust, encourage growth, and drive performance without blame or confusion.
Location: Cottonwood
The Three Responsibilities of a Leader: How to Use the SBI Coaching Model To Create Conversations for Today’s Workforce
Deana Scott
In today's dynamic Indigenous business arena, effective leadership goes beyond managing tasks — it’s about guiding people with purpose. This interactive 60-minute session explores the three core responsibilities of a leader — setting direction, building alignment, and creating commitment — through the lens of the SBI (Situation-Behavior-Impact) Coaching Model. This is geared specifically to human resources professionals and tribal leaders.
Participants will learn how to create meaningful, actionable coaching conversations that resonate with today’s workforce. By focusing on data-driven feedback and objective language, leaders can build trust, encourage growth, and drive performance without blame or confusion.
12:45pm - 1:45pm
Department: Legal
Location: Grand Ballroom Main
11 Best Practices From NNAHRA Members
Richard Mcgee This interactive session will spotlight the collective wisdom of NNAHRA members by highlighting their best HR practices. We'll explore the reasoning behind each approach, discuss how it can be applied in different tribal HR settings, and celebrate the insight and experience of our peers. Attendees will gain practical strategies while also feeling connected to the shared values and lived experiences of fellow NNAHRA professionals.
Location: Grand Ballroom Main
11 Best Practices From NNAHRA Members
Richard Mcgee This interactive session will spotlight the collective wisdom of NNAHRA members by highlighting their best HR practices. We'll explore the reasoning behind each approach, discuss how it can be applied in different tribal HR settings, and celebrate the insight and experience of our peers. Attendees will gain practical strategies while also feeling connected to the shared values and lived experiences of fellow NNAHRA professionals.
Department: Best Practices
Location: Summit B
Leading Through Change
Bethany Rios Change is inevitable, but how we navigate it defines our success. This engaging presentation will help learners assess their comfort level with change and equip them with practical tools to deploy when experiencing change within their organization.
Location: Summit B
Leading Through Change
Bethany Rios Change is inevitable, but how we navigate it defines our success. This engaging presentation will help learners assess their comfort level with change and equip them with practical tools to deploy when experiencing change within their organization.
Department: Leadership
Location: Summit A
Culture is the Foundation of Workplace Culture
Janine Sam
Location: Summit A
Culture is the Foundation of Workplace Culture
Janine Sam
Department: HR Solutions & Technology
Location: Grand Ballroom East
Data First Aid: HR’s Role in Treating Organizational Pain Points
Armida Vargas
Ernest Vargas Is your organization experiencing symptoms like low employee engagement, high turnover, or inconsistent performance? Just like a medical professional uses diagnostic tools to uncover the root cause of a patient’s symptoms, Human Resources can use organizational assessment data as a powerful diagnostic tool to identify and treat the underlying issues hindering performance. In this interactive and engaging breakout session, you'll step into the role of an "HR Data Doctor" and learn how to interpret key data points, diagnose organizational challenges, and prescribe targeted solutions by:
Location: Grand Ballroom East
Data First Aid: HR’s Role in Treating Organizational Pain Points
Armida Vargas
Ernest Vargas Is your organization experiencing symptoms like low employee engagement, high turnover, or inconsistent performance? Just like a medical professional uses diagnostic tools to uncover the root cause of a patient’s symptoms, Human Resources can use organizational assessment data as a powerful diagnostic tool to identify and treat the underlying issues hindering performance. In this interactive and engaging breakout session, you'll step into the role of an "HR Data Doctor" and learn how to interpret key data points, diagnose organizational challenges, and prescribe targeted solutions by:
- Examining common "pain points" that signal deeper organizational challenges.
- Learning how to analyze assessment results to uncover patterns and pinpoint root causes.
- Developing actionable HR interventions to address issues and drive performance.
- Establishing ongoing data monitoring to evaluate the success of your HR initiatives.
- Examining common "pain points" that signal deeper organizational challenges.
- Learning how to analyze assessment results to uncover patterns and pinpoint root causes.
- Developing actionable HR interventions to address issues and drive performance.
- Establishing ongoing data monitoring to evaluate the success of your HR initiatives.
Department: Benefits/Compensation
Location: Elderberry
Strategies to Maximize Employee Retirement Benefits While Minimizing Employer Costs Debbie Pucciarelli Our offboarding process introduces an innovative approach. We empower and inspire HR professionals and their team members with relevant information in a practical way to strengthen your organization.
Location: Elderberry
Strategies to Maximize Employee Retirement Benefits While Minimizing Employer Costs Debbie Pucciarelli Our offboarding process introduces an innovative approach. We empower and inspire HR professionals and their team members with relevant information in a practical way to strengthen your organization.
Department: NDN Soup for the HR Soul
Location: Grand Ballroom West
More Empathy! Wait, More Sympathy. No, More Empathy!
Paul Figueroa In this day and age, it’s easy to take on what’s happening to others. In this session, you'll discover the difference between sympathy and empathy — concepts that can often be confusing. See how sympathy can lead to exhaustion, lack of sleep, burnout, and significant mood changes. See why we sometimes resist empathy because we think we're cold-hearted or unfeeling. Time permitting, we’ll do some exercises as well. You’ll leave feeling better about yourself and what you do in the world!
Location: Grand Ballroom West
More Empathy! Wait, More Sympathy. No, More Empathy!
Paul Figueroa In this day and age, it’s easy to take on what’s happening to others. In this session, you'll discover the difference between sympathy and empathy — concepts that can often be confusing. See how sympathy can lead to exhaustion, lack of sleep, burnout, and significant mood changes. See why we sometimes resist empathy because we think we're cold-hearted or unfeeling. Time permitting, we’ll do some exercises as well. You’ll leave feeling better about yourself and what you do in the world!
Department: Empowering Change-Makers
Location: Cottonwood
Magnetic Branding: Executive Insights on Attracting and Retaining Tribal Talent Alicia Finley Learn how to create an authentic and effective employer brand that reflects your tribe’s culture and values — one that attracts top talent and keeps them engaged for the long term. We’ll explore:
Location: Cottonwood
Magnetic Branding: Executive Insights on Attracting and Retaining Tribal Talent Alicia Finley Learn how to create an authentic and effective employer brand that reflects your tribe’s culture and values — one that attracts top talent and keeps them engaged for the long term. We’ll explore:
- Identity & Culture: What makes your tribe a unique place to work?
- Authentic Storytelling: Share real employee stories and cultural insights that resonate.
- Employee Advocacy: Empower your team to be your best ambassadors.
- Candidate Experience: Make the hiring journey clear, respectful, and positive.
- Strategic Alignment: Connect your employer brand to your tribe’s long-term goals.
- Engagement & Retention: Build a workplace that values and supports its people.
- Measuring Success: Use data to improve hiring, engagement, and retention efforts.
- Whether you're just starting or looking to improve, this session offers practical tools to strengthen your employer brand and workforce.
2:00pm - 3:00pm
Department: Legal
Location: Grand Ballroom Main
Employee Medical Accommodations and Requests for Leave: A Practical Overview
Kathleen Wade Anna Cole
Employee requests for medical accommodations and/or medical leaves of absence implicate an increasingly complicated set of policies, benefits, laws, and employee expectations. Employers want to support their employees through illness and injury to help them return to productive work, while also avoiding being taken advantage of. This program will help HR untangle the rules applicable to different types of requests (disability-related, pregnancy-related, and family-related) for accommodations and leave, providing employers with a practical framework for approaching such requests.
Location: Grand Ballroom Main
Employee Medical Accommodations and Requests for Leave: A Practical Overview
Kathleen Wade Anna Cole
Employee requests for medical accommodations and/or medical leaves of absence implicate an increasingly complicated set of policies, benefits, laws, and employee expectations. Employers want to support their employees through illness and injury to help them return to productive work, while also avoiding being taken advantage of. This program will help HR untangle the rules applicable to different types of requests (disability-related, pregnancy-related, and family-related) for accommodations and leave, providing employers with a practical framework for approaching such requests.
Department: Best Practices
Location: Summit B
Delivering Best Practices Through Human Resources
Brendan McKenna Morgan Matz Azadeh Tavakoli Tribal leaders recognize that an organization’s measured strength and key resource is its staff. As the bridge between an organization’s leadership and its staff, human resources holds the unique responsibility of serving the best interests of the organization while also being the advocate for staff. This dynamic may be tested in times of change. Our discussion will address the human side of human resources as it balances leadership directives that bring change to staff.
Location: Summit B
Delivering Best Practices Through Human Resources
Brendan McKenna Morgan Matz Azadeh Tavakoli Tribal leaders recognize that an organization’s measured strength and key resource is its staff. As the bridge between an organization’s leadership and its staff, human resources holds the unique responsibility of serving the best interests of the organization while also being the advocate for staff. This dynamic may be tested in times of change. Our discussion will address the human side of human resources as it balances leadership directives that bring change to staff.
Department: Leadership
Location: Summit A
Navigating a Six-Generation Workforce
Karla Bylund
Location: Summit A
Navigating a Six-Generation Workforce
Karla Bylund
Department: HR Solutions & Technology
Location: Grand Ballroom East
Go Beyond Bullet Points by Leveraging PowerPoint as a Visual Storytelling Tool Ben Scholl Tammy Harris Everyone has seen a PowerPoint presentation that was just blah. We’ve all seen ones that were good, but how do you make presentations exceptional works of visually compelling storytelling? Learn an easy presentation creation framework to elevate your use of PowerPoint beyond just a series of bullet points.
Location: Grand Ballroom East
Go Beyond Bullet Points by Leveraging PowerPoint as a Visual Storytelling Tool Ben Scholl Tammy Harris Everyone has seen a PowerPoint presentation that was just blah. We’ve all seen ones that were good, but how do you make presentations exceptional works of visually compelling storytelling? Learn an easy presentation creation framework to elevate your use of PowerPoint beyond just a series of bullet points.
Department: Benefits/Compensation
Location: Elderberry
Navigating Compensation Challenges: Building a Sustainable, Market-Based Pay System Stacie Jackson In today’s unpredictable labor market, tribal entities face mounting challenges — from inflation and minimum wage changes to evolving employee expectations and work dynamics. Without a well-structured compensation system, tribal entities risk losing great employees or overspending their valuable and limited funds. This session will equip HR professionals with the tools to design and implement a best-practice, market-based compensation system that ensures fairness, competitiveness, and long-term sustainability. You will learn how to:
Location: Elderberry
Navigating Compensation Challenges: Building a Sustainable, Market-Based Pay System Stacie Jackson In today’s unpredictable labor market, tribal entities face mounting challenges — from inflation and minimum wage changes to evolving employee expectations and work dynamics. Without a well-structured compensation system, tribal entities risk losing great employees or overspending their valuable and limited funds. This session will equip HR professionals with the tools to design and implement a best-practice, market-based compensation system that ensures fairness, competitiveness, and long-term sustainability. You will learn how to:
- Define clear compensation objectives that align with organizational goals.
- Design a market-driven pay structure to attract and retain top talent.
- Implement a system that balances internal equity and external competitiveness.
- Maintain and adapt compensation strategies to stay ahead of market shifts.
Department: NDN Soup for the HR Soul
Location: Grand Ballroom West
Self-Care and Stress Management
Dr. Kimberly Moss
Location: Grand Ballroom West
Self-Care and Stress Management
Dr. Kimberly Moss
- Define terminology associated with resilience
- Identify personal and professional risk factors
- Explain physiological responses to trauma and stress
- Identify stress response alternatives
- Explain measurement and mitigation strategies to drive resiliency
Department: Empowering Change-Makers
Location: Cottonwood
Building a High-Performing Background Investigation Team Michele Justice Margaret Lynch Creating a strong background investigation team is critical to protecting your organization and workforce. This executive session will walk attendees through the essential components of building and maintaining an effective background investigation unit. From identifying key roles and internal resources to selecting the right online screening partners, this session will cover it all. We’ll also explore critical agreements such as NDAs, discuss fingerprint processing procedures, and share best practices for ensuring compliance and confidentiality throughout the background check process. Whether you're starting from scratch or looking to strengthen your current system, this session provides the blueprint you need to build a trusted and efficient background investigation team.
Location: Cottonwood
Building a High-Performing Background Investigation Team Michele Justice Margaret Lynch Creating a strong background investigation team is critical to protecting your organization and workforce. This executive session will walk attendees through the essential components of building and maintaining an effective background investigation unit. From identifying key roles and internal resources to selecting the right online screening partners, this session will cover it all. We’ll also explore critical agreements such as NDAs, discuss fingerprint processing procedures, and share best practices for ensuring compliance and confidentiality throughout the background check process. Whether you're starting from scratch or looking to strengthen your current system, this session provides the blueprint you need to build a trusted and efficient background investigation team.
3:15pm - 4:15pm
Department: Legal
Location: Grand Ballroom Main
Protected Traits & Characteristics — A Better Approach to Discrimination & Harassment
Richard Mcgee Why do tribal employers have to be more explicit in defining protected traits and characteristics in the workplace? After answering that important question, how does an effective employer accomplish that goal? From there, how should employers think about training and enforcement of these policies?
Location: Grand Ballroom Main
Protected Traits & Characteristics — A Better Approach to Discrimination & Harassment
Richard Mcgee Why do tribal employers have to be more explicit in defining protected traits and characteristics in the workplace? After answering that important question, how does an effective employer accomplish that goal? From there, how should employers think about training and enforcement of these policies?
Department: Best Practices
Location: Summit B
Five Must-Dos for High-Performance Recruitment
Kim Hayes Megan Carpenter
Finding the right talent for key roles in tribal government and enterprise goes beyond qualifications on a resume. This session focuses on five essential recruitment strategies to identify and attract high-performing candidates for hard-to-fill positions — roles that require cultural alignment, strong political and communication skills, and the ability to thrive in unique environments. From sourcing strategies to screening techniques, this session will provide actionable insights on:
Location: Summit B
Five Must-Dos for High-Performance Recruitment
Kim Hayes Megan Carpenter
Finding the right talent for key roles in tribal government and enterprise goes beyond qualifications on a resume. This session focuses on five essential recruitment strategies to identify and attract high-performing candidates for hard-to-fill positions — roles that require cultural alignment, strong political and communication skills, and the ability to thrive in unique environments. From sourcing strategies to screening techniques, this session will provide actionable insights on:
- Identifying candidates who align with tribal values and long-term vision.
- Finding leaders who can navigate complex governance and compliance structures.
- Attracting purpose-driven professionals with the resilience to excel in remote locations.
- Using interview and assessment techniques to uncover both technical expertise and essential soft skills.
- Taking a people-first approach when hiring for roles that shape the future of tribal enterprises.
Department: Leadership
Location: Summit A
Lead Like it Matters: Why Your Leadership Program Can't Wait
Kacey PelosoKamie BestIn “Lead Like It Matters: Why Your Leadership Program Can’t Wait,” we’ll share how we built and launched a high-impact leadership development program that transformed our organization from the inside out. Faced with rapid growth and evolving workforce needs, we knew we couldn’t afford to wait. This session walks through the strategy we used to design a program that aligned with business goals, developed leaders at every level, and strengthened our culture. We’ll cover what worked, what didn’t, and how we gained executive buy-in and measurable results. If you're looking to elevate leadership in a way that truly drives performance, this is the roadmap we followed.
Location: Summit A
Lead Like it Matters: Why Your Leadership Program Can't Wait
Kacey PelosoKamie BestIn “Lead Like It Matters: Why Your Leadership Program Can’t Wait,” we’ll share how we built and launched a high-impact leadership development program that transformed our organization from the inside out. Faced with rapid growth and evolving workforce needs, we knew we couldn’t afford to wait. This session walks through the strategy we used to design a program that aligned with business goals, developed leaders at every level, and strengthened our culture. We’ll cover what worked, what didn’t, and how we gained executive buy-in and measurable results. If you're looking to elevate leadership in a way that truly drives performance, this is the roadmap we followed.
Department: HR Solutions & Technology
Location: Grand Ballroom East
Building a Powerful Employer Brand in the Digital Age: Approach to Social Media for Talent Engagement Wende Smith In today's competitive talent market, an organization's digital presence has become the new front door for potential employees. Join Wende Smith as she unpacks how BambooHR has leveraged social media strategies to build a powerful employer brand that attracts, engages, and retains top talent. Drawing on BambooHR's experience as a leading HR software provider serving over 40,000 organizations worldwide, this session will offer actionable insights on aligning HR practices with digital branding strategies to create an authentic employer brand that resonates in the digital age. Attendees will leave with a better understanding of the strategies required for elevating their employer brand through social media, based on proven approaches from BambooHR's success story. They'll learn how to effectively integrate HR and marketing efforts to create a compelling digital presence that attracts top talent and reinforces organizational culture.
Location: Grand Ballroom East
Building a Powerful Employer Brand in the Digital Age: Approach to Social Media for Talent Engagement Wende Smith In today's competitive talent market, an organization's digital presence has become the new front door for potential employees. Join Wende Smith as she unpacks how BambooHR has leveraged social media strategies to build a powerful employer brand that attracts, engages, and retains top talent. Drawing on BambooHR's experience as a leading HR software provider serving over 40,000 organizations worldwide, this session will offer actionable insights on aligning HR practices with digital branding strategies to create an authentic employer brand that resonates in the digital age. Attendees will leave with a better understanding of the strategies required for elevating their employer brand through social media, based on proven approaches from BambooHR's success story. They'll learn how to effectively integrate HR and marketing efforts to create a compelling digital presence that attracts top talent and reinforces organizational culture.
Department: Benefits/Compensation
Location: Elderberry
From Risk to Resilience: Transforming Heart Health in Native Nations Stephanie Campbell
Roselyn Tso Cardiovascular disease (CVD) has been the leading cause of death for over a century, and Native Americans and women bear a disproportionate burden compared to other populations. Native Americans are 50% more likely to be diagnosed with premature CVD than their white counterparts, and women are twice as likely to die from a heart attack than men. This session will explore how digital health solutions can enable lifestyle change and bridge health equity gaps. Discover how you can empower your members to take control of their heart health, mitigate their risk factors, and transform their outcomes.
Location: Elderberry
From Risk to Resilience: Transforming Heart Health in Native Nations Stephanie Campbell
Roselyn Tso Cardiovascular disease (CVD) has been the leading cause of death for over a century, and Native Americans and women bear a disproportionate burden compared to other populations. Native Americans are 50% more likely to be diagnosed with premature CVD than their white counterparts, and women are twice as likely to die from a heart attack than men. This session will explore how digital health solutions can enable lifestyle change and bridge health equity gaps. Discover how you can empower your members to take control of their heart health, mitigate their risk factors, and transform their outcomes.
Department: NDN Soup for the HR Soul
Location: Grand Ballroom West
From Burnout to Balance: Mental Health Strategies That Actually Work
Charles Carlson
Dr. Darryl Tonemah Beyond EAPs — let’s talk burnout prevention, trauma-informed care, and cultural healing.
Location: Grand Ballroom West
From Burnout to Balance: Mental Health Strategies That Actually Work
Charles Carlson
Dr. Darryl Tonemah Beyond EAPs — let’s talk burnout prevention, trauma-informed care, and cultural healing.
Department: Empowering Change-Makers
Location: Cottonwood
Tribal Leadership Council: Cultivating the Next Generation of Indigenous Leaders
Justin Barrett
Mauricia Chavaria The Tribal Leadership Council will discuss the programs they offer, as well as current partnerships with various organizations to develop new leaders in Indigenous Country.
Location: Cottonwood
Tribal Leadership Council: Cultivating the Next Generation of Indigenous Leaders
Justin Barrett
Mauricia Chavaria The Tribal Leadership Council will discuss the programs they offer, as well as current partnerships with various organizations to develop new leaders in Indigenous Country.
10/1/2025
10:45am - 11:45am
Department: Legal
Location: Grand Ballroom Main
Preference & TERO Intersect
Richard Mcgee In this engaging session, we will discuss the legal foundation of Tribal Employment Rights Ordinances (TEROs) and the TERO offices that enforce these codes. From there, the session will address TERO jurisdiction from both geographic and topical perspectives. What is the proper reach of TERO? Does TERO extend to the Tribal government's preference practices? What about the Tribe's casino and other economic enterprises? Does TERO extend to private employers on the Tribe's lands? Can TERO enforce its rules — and what are the limits?
Location: Grand Ballroom Main
Preference & TERO Intersect
Richard Mcgee In this engaging session, we will discuss the legal foundation of Tribal Employment Rights Ordinances (TEROs) and the TERO offices that enforce these codes. From there, the session will address TERO jurisdiction from both geographic and topical perspectives. What is the proper reach of TERO? Does TERO extend to the Tribal government's preference practices? What about the Tribe's casino and other economic enterprises? Does TERO extend to private employers on the Tribe's lands? Can TERO enforce its rules — and what are the limits?
Department: Best Practices
Location: Summit B
Better Together: Streamlining HR Investigations Through Collaboration
Mariella Platner
Maria Ferris
Cattleya Rice Join the Pechanga Resort Casino HR team as they unveil their proven strategies for conducting effective, collaborative HR investigations — empowering operational managers to play a key role in the process. In this session, you’ll gain practical insights on fostering strong partnerships across casino and hotel departments to ensure a thorough and fair investigation. The team will guide you through each stage of the investigative process, including:
Location: Summit B
Better Together: Streamlining HR Investigations Through Collaboration
Mariella Platner
Maria Ferris
Cattleya Rice Join the Pechanga Resort Casino HR team as they unveil their proven strategies for conducting effective, collaborative HR investigations — empowering operational managers to play a key role in the process. In this session, you’ll gain practical insights on fostering strong partnerships across casino and hotel departments to ensure a thorough and fair investigation. The team will guide you through each stage of the investigative process, including:
- Building collaborative relationships
- Strengthening communication and trust with operational leaders
- Gathering and analyzing evidence – best practices for collecting facts, documenting findings, and interviewing witnesses
- Identifying and implementing solutions – working together to drive effective resolutions and long-term improvements
Department: Leadership
Location: Summit A
Emergency Preparedness and the Opioid Epidemic: Fentanyl Awareness and Narcan Resources (Narcan Training Certificate)
Eddie Ilko Kelly MckayThis course will guide human resources professionals, Tribal governments, regulatory commissions, and casino team members and management in responding to critical and emergency situations. It will address how to plan for and respond to different kinds of natural and man-made disasters specific to their area. The session will also include a presentation by Indian Health Service on the opioid epidemic, with a focus on fentanyl awareness and Narcan resources. It includes hands-on Narcan training and a certificate of completion. Presenter(s): NIGC Eddie Ilko and/or Indian Health Service, Department of Health and Human Services and the PIO Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA).
Location: Summit A
Emergency Preparedness and the Opioid Epidemic: Fentanyl Awareness and Narcan Resources (Narcan Training Certificate)
Eddie Ilko Kelly MckayThis course will guide human resources professionals, Tribal governments, regulatory commissions, and casino team members and management in responding to critical and emergency situations. It will address how to plan for and respond to different kinds of natural and man-made disasters specific to their area. The session will also include a presentation by Indian Health Service on the opioid epidemic, with a focus on fentanyl awareness and Narcan resources. It includes hands-on Narcan training and a certificate of completion. Presenter(s): NIGC Eddie Ilko and/or Indian Health Service, Department of Health and Human Services and the PIO Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA).
Department: HR Solutions & Technology
Location: Grand Ballroom East
Using Culturally Grounded Learning Communities for Employee Growth
Basla Andolsun
Patrick Anderson HR professionals in Indigenous Country are constantly navigating how to support growth, build capacity, and honor their communities' values — without overwhelming already stretched staff. Online training is one tool in their kit, but traditional platforms often miss the mark for tribal organizations: too impersonal, too generic, and too disconnected from tribal realities. This session will introduce a new model: online learning communities designed around 7th-generation principles. Participants will explore how these communities go beyond static webinars or cookie-cutter courses to foster relationships, collective problem-solving, and culturally grounded knowledge-sharing across tribal nations. By providing ongoing access to expert and peer support, these communities empower their members to continuously learn and develop.
Location: Grand Ballroom East
Using Culturally Grounded Learning Communities for Employee Growth
Basla Andolsun
Patrick Anderson HR professionals in Indigenous Country are constantly navigating how to support growth, build capacity, and honor their communities' values — without overwhelming already stretched staff. Online training is one tool in their kit, but traditional platforms often miss the mark for tribal organizations: too impersonal, too generic, and too disconnected from tribal realities. This session will introduce a new model: online learning communities designed around 7th-generation principles. Participants will explore how these communities go beyond static webinars or cookie-cutter courses to foster relationships, collective problem-solving, and culturally grounded knowledge-sharing across tribal nations. By providing ongoing access to expert and peer support, these communities empower their members to continuously learn and develop.
Department: Benefits/Compensation
Location: Elderberry
Pharmacy Benefit Landscape: Trends and Solutions Amy Susser
Location: Elderberry
Pharmacy Benefit Landscape: Trends and Solutions Amy Susser
Department: NDN Soup for the HR Soul
Location: Grand Ballroom West
Setting Boundaries to Preserve Your HR Sanity
Duncan Granger
Location: Grand Ballroom West
Setting Boundaries to Preserve Your HR Sanity
Duncan Granger
Department: Empowering Change-Makers
Location: Cottonwood
Unlocking Potential: Positive Psychology Training for HR Professionals
Alonzo Nez
Organizations are constantly seeking new ways to inspire, engage, and support their teams. Positive psychology training for Human Resource Professionals is designed to empower HR leaders to create a thriving, positive workplace where employees are not only productive but also fulfilled and energized by their work.
This transformative training will introduce HR staff to a fresh perspective on how to cultivate an environment where employees can unlock their full potential. The training will explore powerful concepts like strengths-based development, emotional resilience, and creating flow at work, all while learning practical tools to integrate these principles into everyday HR practices.
By focusing on strengths, fostering emotional well-being, and nurturing positive relationships, this training equips HR staff with the skills to inspire company teams and build a culture where employees feel valued, supported, and motivated to give their best. The training program will transform the way HR staff engages with employees — leading to a more vibrant, connected, and resilient organization. At the completion of the training, HR will have information and tools to create a workplace that prioritizes growth, well-being, and connection, where employees don't just succeed — they thrive
Location: Cottonwood
Unlocking Potential: Positive Psychology Training for HR Professionals
Alonzo Nez
Organizations are constantly seeking new ways to inspire, engage, and support their teams. Positive psychology training for Human Resource Professionals is designed to empower HR leaders to create a thriving, positive workplace where employees are not only productive but also fulfilled and energized by their work.
This transformative training will introduce HR staff to a fresh perspective on how to cultivate an environment where employees can unlock their full potential. The training will explore powerful concepts like strengths-based development, emotional resilience, and creating flow at work, all while learning practical tools to integrate these principles into everyday HR practices.
By focusing on strengths, fostering emotional well-being, and nurturing positive relationships, this training equips HR staff with the skills to inspire company teams and build a culture where employees feel valued, supported, and motivated to give their best. The training program will transform the way HR staff engages with employees — leading to a more vibrant, connected, and resilient organization. At the completion of the training, HR will have information and tools to create a workplace that prioritizes growth, well-being, and connection, where employees don't just succeed — they thrive
1:45pm - 2:45pm
Department: Legal
Location: Grand Ballroom Main
What is the Landscape of ICE and Immigration Enforcement Efforts?
Christina Simpson ICE and immigration enforcement efforts can come in many different varieties. These include both worksite enforcement actions (raids) and I-9 audits, among other activities. This session will explore the current landscape of these actions and how employers and businesses can prepare for these potential actions. The session will also address the types of conduct that can increase or decrease exposure to penalties in the event of an enforcement action.
Location: Grand Ballroom Main
What is the Landscape of ICE and Immigration Enforcement Efforts?
Christina Simpson ICE and immigration enforcement efforts can come in many different varieties. These include both worksite enforcement actions (raids) and I-9 audits, among other activities. This session will explore the current landscape of these actions and how employers and businesses can prepare for these potential actions. The session will also address the types of conduct that can increase or decrease exposure to penalties in the event of an enforcement action.
Department: Best Practices
Location: Summit B
Interviewing Best Practices
Holly Waisanen In this session, participants will develop an understanding of how to effectively interview candidates by creating an ideal candidate profile and formulating position-specific interview questions with a focus on behavioral interviewing. By the end of the session, participants will have practical skills for conducting interviews that accurately assess a candidate's qualifications and fit for a role.
Location: Summit B
Interviewing Best Practices
Holly Waisanen In this session, participants will develop an understanding of how to effectively interview candidates by creating an ideal candidate profile and formulating position-specific interview questions with a focus on behavioral interviewing. By the end of the session, participants will have practical skills for conducting interviews that accurately assess a candidate's qualifications and fit for a role.
Key Points to Cover:
1. Identifying Different Types of Interview Questions:- Discuss the different types of interview questions.
- Highlight the benefits of behavioral interview questions.
- Learning how to create questions that elicit meaningful responses.
- Guide participants through crafting interview questions tailored to the needs of the position.
- Emphasize how these questions should reflect the skills, experiences, and qualities necessary for the role.
- Share strategies for creating a comfortable interview environment.
- Discuss techniques for effectively listening to responses and evaluating candidates' answers.
- Provide advice on how to avoid biases and ensure fairness in the interview process.
Department: Leadership
Location: Summit A
Resilient Leadership, Change Your Mindset, Change Your Outcome
Nathaniel George Resilient Leadership offers a deep, emotional exploration of what stress is and how we allow ourselves to be negatively affected by it. You will learn how to recognize stressors, understand what it means to be resilient and how to build resiliency, and discover how to apply resilient leadership to become a better servant leader to your team. Resilient Leadership will ask you to take a hard look inside and find the confidence to face the many struggles that come with work and life every day, pushing through the struggles to change the outcome on the other side. You will be challenged to find your inner warrior and learn to grow through struggle, rather than avoid it.
Location: Summit A
Resilient Leadership, Change Your Mindset, Change Your Outcome
Nathaniel George Resilient Leadership offers a deep, emotional exploration of what stress is and how we allow ourselves to be negatively affected by it. You will learn how to recognize stressors, understand what it means to be resilient and how to build resiliency, and discover how to apply resilient leadership to become a better servant leader to your team. Resilient Leadership will ask you to take a hard look inside and find the confidence to face the many struggles that come with work and life every day, pushing through the struggles to change the outcome on the other side. You will be challenged to find your inner warrior and learn to grow through struggle, rather than avoid it.
Department: HR Solutions & Technology
Location: Grand Ballroom East
Leading With Innovation: How Cloud Technology and AI are Evolving HR and Finance
Chris Cameron This session explores how HR and finance teams are adapting to rapid shifts in technology — particularly the use of cloud-based systems and artificial intelligence. Led by Chris Cameron, transformation leader at PwC, the conversation will focus on how organizations are rethinking outdated systems and leveraging innovation to improve decision-making, employee experience, and operational efficiency.
Location: Grand Ballroom East
Leading With Innovation: How Cloud Technology and AI are Evolving HR and Finance
Chris Cameron This session explores how HR and finance teams are adapting to rapid shifts in technology — particularly the use of cloud-based systems and artificial intelligence. Led by Chris Cameron, transformation leader at PwC, the conversation will focus on how organizations are rethinking outdated systems and leveraging innovation to improve decision-making, employee experience, and operational efficiency.
Session Highlights:
- Examine how organizations are transitioning from legacy systems to flexible, cloud-based solutions to support evolving workforce and financial needs.
- Explore how AI is being used to improve forecasting, automate routine tasks, and enable more strategic decision-making in HR and finance.
- Discuss practical approaches to applying technology in ways that are people-centered, scalable, and aligned with organizational goals.
- Learn how cloud and AI technologies are shaping the future of HR and finance in both small and large organizations.
- Gain insight into how digital transformation can simplify complex processes, improve service delivery, and support long-term sustainability.
- Walk away with ideas for approaching innovation thoughtfully — balancing modern tools with the unique values and needs of your tribal or organizational community.
Department: Benefits/Compensation
Location: Elderberry
Work Comp – Covered or Not Covered (scenarios given to decide on whether a claim should be accepted or denied) Mike Melchior This presentation is designed to turn complex tribal workers' compensation rules into something relatable and interactive. Through a series of surprising, quirky, and realistic Indian Country scenarios, participants will sharpen their judgment on whether an injury or illness should be accepted as a valid claim.
Location: Elderberry
Work Comp – Covered or Not Covered (scenarios given to decide on whether a claim should be accepted or denied) Mike Melchior This presentation is designed to turn complex tribal workers' compensation rules into something relatable and interactive. Through a series of surprising, quirky, and realistic Indian Country scenarios, participants will sharpen their judgment on whether an injury or illness should be accepted as a valid claim.
Department: NDN Soup for the HR Soul
Location: Grand Ballroom West
The Magic of Resilient Leadership: Overcoming Challenges to Inspire Growth
Brian Yazzie In today’s rapidly evolving workplace, HR professionals in Native communities face unique challenges — balancing cultural traditions, workforce development, and leadership growth while navigating adversity. In this engaging and interactive session, professional magician and motivational speaker Brian Yazzie will combine the art of magic with powerful storytelling to reveal key strategies for resilient leadership, overcoming obstacles, and creating a lasting impact within Native organizations.
Location: Grand Ballroom West
The Magic of Resilient Leadership: Overcoming Challenges to Inspire Growth
Brian Yazzie In today’s rapidly evolving workplace, HR professionals in Native communities face unique challenges — balancing cultural traditions, workforce development, and leadership growth while navigating adversity. In this engaging and interactive session, professional magician and motivational speaker Brian Yazzie will combine the art of magic with powerful storytelling to reveal key strategies for resilient leadership, overcoming obstacles, and creating a lasting impact within Native organizations.
Department: Empowering Change-Makers
Location: Cottonwood
The Confident Leader’s Edge: Recruitment Strategies That Resonate Clint Rosser In this dynamic presentation, you’ll learn essential skills that can make or break your success in today’s competitive talent acquisition landscape. Discover strategies to boost your confidence and professional presence, empowering you to engage potential candidates with authenticity and conviction. Learn the art of assertive communication — an approach that helps you advocate for your organization and the candidate without veering into aggression. This session is designed to not only inform but transform, equipping you with actionable tools to elevate your recruitment success. Whether you’re new to the industry or looking to sharpen your edge, join us to strengthen your professional capabilities and make a lasting impact.
Location: Cottonwood
The Confident Leader’s Edge: Recruitment Strategies That Resonate Clint Rosser In this dynamic presentation, you’ll learn essential skills that can make or break your success in today’s competitive talent acquisition landscape. Discover strategies to boost your confidence and professional presence, empowering you to engage potential candidates with authenticity and conviction. Learn the art of assertive communication — an approach that helps you advocate for your organization and the candidate without veering into aggression. This session is designed to not only inform but transform, equipping you with actionable tools to elevate your recruitment success. Whether you’re new to the industry or looking to sharpen your edge, join us to strengthen your professional capabilities and make a lasting impact.
*Please note schedule, topics or speakers may be subject to change.