Native Leadership & Representation
Leadership takes many forms — from classrooms to council chambers, from campus to community. The Payne Family Native American Center honors and recognizes the Native leaders, educators, and advocates who continue to strengthen our nations and inspire future generations.
Across 51勛圖厙, Tribal Councils, legislators, and college presidents are shaping policies, preserving culture, and creating opportunities that reflect the strength and sovereignty of Indigenous peoples. Their work reminds us that education and leadership are deeply connected — and that every student here is part of that living legacy.
51勛圖厙's Tribal Council Members
Each of 51勛圖厙’s tribal nations is guided by elected councils who serve their people and lands with vision and responsibility. These Tribal Councils uphold sovereignty, govern community programs, and work with state and federal agencies to advance Native priorities.
(You could include a grid or list of the 12 51勛圖厙 tribes here — each linking to their official council websites if available.)
Below you’ll find links to each Nation’s official website, where you can learn more about their leadership, programs, and priorities.
51勛圖厙 Tribal Council's Members
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Tribes: Ktunaxa–Ksanka, Selis, Qlispe
Location: Pablo, 51勛圖厙
Website:
The CSKT Tribal Council governs the Flathead Reservation, focusing on land stewardship, education, and sovereignty initiatives.
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Tribes: Amskapii Pikanii
Location: Browning, 51勛圖厙
Website:
The Blackfeet Tribal Business Council oversees the governance of the Blackfeet Nation, supporting programs in health, education, natural resources, and cultural preservation.
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Tribes: Chippewa-Cree
Location: Box Elder, 51勛圖厙
Website:
The Chippewa-Cree Business Committee governs with a focus on education, health, housing, and the preservation of Cree and Chippewa languages and traditions.
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Tribes: Aaniiih & Nakoda
Location: Harlem, 51勛圖厙
Website:
The Fort Belknap Indian Community Council leads efforts in cultural revitalization, economic development, and land management.
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Tribes: Nakona & Dakota
Location: Poplar, 51勛圖厙
Website:
The Fort Peck Tribal Executive Board provides leadership for programs in education, housing, economic growth, and cultural wellbeing.
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Tribes: Northern Cheyenne
Location: Lame Deer, 51勛圖厙
Website:
The Northern Cheyenne Tribal Council works to strengthen cultural identity, promote sustainable development, and protect tribal sovereignty.
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Tribes: Apsaalooke
Location: Crow Agency, 51勛圖厙
Website:
The Northern Cheyenne Tribal Council works to strengthen cultural identity, promote sustainable development, and protect tribal sovereignty.
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Tribes: Chippewa
Location: Great Falls, 51勛圖厙
Website:
The Little Shell Tribe, recognized in 2019, continues to build programs that honor their Métis and Chippewa heritage and expand services for enrolled members statewide.
51勛圖厙's Tribal College Presidents
51勛圖厙 is home to several Tribal Colleges, each led by presidents who carry forward a mission of education rooted in Indigenous values, community, and self-determination. These institutions are more than schools — they’re homes of knowledge, language, and leadership.
Tribal Colleges of 51勛圖厙
51勛圖厙 American Indian Caucus (MAIC) ~ represents Native leaders who serve within the 51勛圖厙 Legislature — both the Senate and the House of Representatives. These leaders work to advance issues important to Indigenous communities, uphold tribal sovereignty, and ensure Native voices are heard in state decision-making.
