NAFSA Team & Leadership Council

NAFSA is powered by a talented team of nine staff members, each bringing expertise, creativity, and a shared commitment to advancing Indigenous food sovereignty. From implementing impactful programs to fostering community engagement, the staff ensures that NAFSA’s mission is carried out with clarity and purpose. Together, they are building the organization’s capacity for growth and innovation in service to Native communities.

Guiding this work is NAFSA’s Leadership Council, a group of 13 experienced activists who provide strategic oversight and direction. Led by Dan Cornelius and Dr. Josephine Chase, the council ensures alignment with NAFSA’s long-term vision. With staggered terms and a transparent nomination process, the Leadership Council upholds the organization’s values while fostering smooth transitions and continuity. Seven members also serve on the Executive Committee to support governance and decision-making.

Together, we drive NAFSA’s mission and impact forward!

NAFSA Team

ted wright

Sitka Tribe of Alaska

Executive Director

Megan Dwyer

Ally

Executive Assistant

June James

Ally

HR & Operations Manager

Sarah Pacyna

Ally

Director of Development

Marian K. Bitsui

Diné

Director of Communications

Trena Bizardi

Diné

Senior Program Officer

Mereya Blanco

Mexican- Indigenous (Apache-Raramuri)

Southwest ISKN Program Coordinator

Kaitlyn Walsh

Anishinaabe

Upper Midwest ISKN Coordinator

Our Governance

The Leadership Council plays a critical role in shaping the organization and guiding its activities. In 2016, the current Board of Directors was elected from the Leadership Council to serve staggered five-year terms, ensuring continuity and smooth transitions in leadership. The board meets quarterly via conference call and gathers annually in person to strategize and plan for the future.

Board members serve three- or five-year terms, with the opportunity for re-election. Seven members of the Leadership Council are elected to the Executive Committee for renewable one-year terms. New Leadership Council members are selected through a transparent and inclusive nomination, review, and evaluation process, ensuring the council and organization continue to reflect the values and mission of NAFSA.