WHAT WE DO
The Tribal Liaison Program is dedicated to strengthening ties between Sandoval County and its Tribal Communities. Its philosophy is that by working together, the overall health, well-being, and prosperity of Native American residents and all residents of Sandoval County can be increased. This program addresses the needs of members and governments of the Pueblos of Cochiti, Jemez, Laguna, San Felipe, San Ildefonso, Sandia, Santa Ana, Santa Clara, Santo Domingo (Kewa), and Zia, the Navajo Chapters of Counselor, Ojo Encino, and Torreon/Star Lake, and the Jicarilla Apache Nation.
HOW WE SERVE YOU
PROGRAM SERVICES
Our Tribal Liaison Coordinators meet regularly with their Tribal Community and County counterparts. During these meetings, they exchange program information, discuss challenges and explore solutions, participate in area events, and conduct trainings to benefit the County’s Tribal Communities. Other activities include health fairs, educational summits, conferences, and other community-centered, multi-generational programs.
Tribal Liaison Coordinators also assist with voter registration for all County primary, general, special, and school board elections. When needed, the Tribal Liaisons translate election-related material—including ballots—into the appropriate Native language (Keres, Towa, and Navajo). All information provided by the Tribal Liaisons is non-partisan.
INFORMATION
UPCOMING EVENTS
In memorial of former Navajo Nation Vice President Rex Lee Jim.Read more: navajotimes.com/reznews/former-navajo-nation-vice-president-rex-lee-jim-dies-at-63/#google_vignette𝗡𝗮𝘃𝗮𝗷𝗼 𝗡𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻 𝗠𝗼𝘂𝗿𝗻𝘀 𝗣𝗮𝘀𝘀𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗼𝗳 𝗳𝗼𝗿𝗺𝗲𝗿 𝗩𝗶𝗰𝗲 𝗣𝗿𝗲𝘀𝗶𝗱𝗲𝗻𝘁 𝗥𝗲𝘅 𝗟𝗲𝗲 𝗝𝗶𝗺Former Navajo Nation Vice President Rex Lee Jim has passed, and our Nation mourns alongside his family, relatives, and all who were touched by his life.Rex Lee Jim was more than a public servant. He was a visionary leader, a protector of Diné language and culture, a poet, educator, and Medicine Man who dedicated his life to the wellbeing of the Navajo people.He served the Navajo Nation honorably as Vice President from 2011–2015 and previously as a member of the Navajo Nation Council. In every role, he worked to strengthen our communities and uplift our people.Beyond government service, he was a powerful voice for Diné Bizaad and Navajo identity. Through his poetry, teaching, and storytelling, he helped ensure that our language, traditions, and teachings continue to guide future generations.He also carried traditional knowledge, sharing the Blessing Way and offering guidance and healing to many across our communities.Rex Lee Jim’s life was one of service, wisdom, and compassion. His legacy will continue to inspire our Nation for generations.On behalf of my family, the Office of the President and Vice President and the Navajo Nation, I extend our heartfelt condolences to his family, relatives, and loved ones. We pray for comfort and strength during this difficult time.May the Holy People watch over him on his journey.— President Buu Nygren
PROGRAM STAFF
Peter Madalena
Towa Tribal Liaison
Provides services to the Pueblos of Jemez and Sandia in Sandoval County. Offers translation services in the Towa language.
Phone: (505) 934-8826
Email: pmadalena@sandovalcountynm.gov
Sheila Herrera
Keres Tribal Liaison
Provides services to the Pueblos of Cochiti, Kewa (Santo Domingo), Laguna, San Felipe, Santa Ana, and Zia in Sandoval County. Offers translation services in the Keres language.
Phone: (505) 980-6099
Email: sherrera@sandovalcountynm.gov
Evelyn Sandoval
Navajo and Jicarilla Apache Tribal Liaison
Provides services to three Navajo Chapters (Counselor, Ojo Encino, and Torreon/Star Lake) and the Jicarilla Apache in Sandoval County. Offers translation services in the Navajo Language.
Phone: 505-238-5600
Email: esandoval@sandovalcountynm.gov
John Butrick
Deputy County Attorney and
Tribal Liaison Program Manager
Phone: 505-867-7536
Email: jbutrick@sandovalcountynm.gov