Our HEEF Board Members
Rooted deep in the traditional values of education, generosity, wisdom, respect, integrity, & humility, the HEEF Board helps nurture and sustain culture initiatives and community development programs for and alongside Hopi students in their educational journey. Our Board represents and reflects our self-sufficient values:
Dr. Wayne Taylor Jr. | HEEF Board President
Executive Committee
Member Since 2022
Wayne Taylor Jr. is former Chairman for the Hopi Tribe and is Sun Clan from the village of Shongopavi. He has a B.A. from the University of Arizona. The Hopi Education Endowment Fund was created under his administration and was adopted by the Hopi Tribal Council in 2000; he brings to the HEEF Board knowledge of the Hopi government and understanding of the Hopi community.
Derrick Taylor David | HEEF Board Vice President
Executive Committee
Member Since 2022
Derrick David is Coyote clan from the Village of Sichomovi, and is a member of the Hopi Tribe. He is currently serving as a Salesforce DevOps Engineer III. He holds an MBA from University of Phoenix, an AA and a B.S. from Chandler/Gilbert Community College in Aeronautical Management Technology. Derrick brings in his experience in Strategic planning, Technology & Communications, and outreach advocacy to the HEEF.
What made you want to be a part of the HEEF?
I wanted to be part of HEEF because education has always been one of the most powerful tools I’ve seen for changing the direction of someone’s life. HEEF doesn’t just provide funding—it removes barriers and creates real opportunity for Hopi students to pursue their goals on their own terms. Being involved allows me to give back in a way that’s practical, long-term, and genuinely impactful.
What impact do you hope to make while serving on the HEEF Board?
I want to help HEEF continue removing the real, everyday barriers that stand between Hopi students and their education. Education is how our people survive, adapt, and carry our story forward in a changing world. That work can’t rest on one board or one community alone. It requires all of us to take responsibility, to show up, and to actively invest in the future of the communities we belong to.
Timothy J. “TJ” Hansell | HEEF Board Treasurer
Executive Committee
Member Since 2020
Timothy is currently a Chief Visionary for the Hansell Companies LLC. He holds a Master’s degree in Public Administration from the University of North Dakota. He is also a member of the Turtle Mountain Chippewa (North Dakota). He is a new board member and is supportive of educational opportunities. “Education is vital” and he believes the HEEF will be able to give more students the opportunity to pursue education.
What made you want to be a part of the HEEF?
Seeing the passion of HEEF Board Members like Shon Quannie and how they talked about helping the Hopi students with education. Education is an important resource for anyone, but particularly Native Americans as we seek to improve our economic and health conditions, preserve our traditions/heritage/culture, and be heard in the larger community.
Samantha Honanie | HEEF Board Secretary
Executive Committee
Member Since 2020
Samantha is currently the Visitor Experience Manager at the Museum of Northern Arizona in Flagstaff, AZ. She holds her B.A. in English from Northern Arizona University and has an M.A in Library & Information Science from the University of Arizona. Samantha comes from the Village of Moencopi and belongs to the Honan’wungwa (Badger) clan and Kinyaa’áanii (Towering House) people.
What made you want to be a part of the HEEF?
As a former Hopi Education Endowment Fund volunteer, I wanted to serve the HEEF in a greater way. Serving as a board member provides me with the opportunity to contribute to the meeting the goals of the HEEF.
What impact do you hope to make while serving on the HEEF Board?
I would love to share the mission and vision of the HEEF more widely as a board member for the benefit of our Hopi students. Our youth is our future, and I want to help support their dreams by making it that much easier for them to gain access to a higher education.
Adele Pablo
Executive Committee & Grants Committee Chairperson
Member Since 2021
Adele is currently an Applications Programmer, Sr. at Northern Arizona University (NAU). She holds a Bachelor’s of Science in Social Work from NAU and a Master’s of Education in Educational Counseling, also from NAU. Adele comes from the Village of Mishongnovi and is both Hopi & Tewa. She belongs to the Kookyangwungwa (Spider) people.
What made you want to be a part of the HEEF?
As a first-generation college student and a former recipient of HEEF funding, I have a deep personal commitment to supporting future Hopi students. I support HEEF because I believe, as they do, that education is vital. Investing in the education of our Hopi youth not only empowers students but also strengthens our entire Hopi community.
What impact do you hope to make while serving on the HEEF Board?
While serving on the HEEF board, I hope to make a meaningful and lasting impact by expanding access to educational opportunities for Hopi students and helping increase funding for HEEF. I plan to use my experience in higher education, communication, and outreach to strengthen HEEF’s programs, grow awareness, and support fundraising efforts that allow the organization to reach more students. Most importantly, I hope to help create sustainable pathways for future generations of Hopi students to succeed, give back, and uplift our community through education.
Kathleen Nilles
Executive Committee
Member Since 2020
Kathleen Nilles is a retired Attorney and Tribal Business Consultant. She holds her J.D. from the University of Virginia Law School, M.A. in Tax Law from Georgetown University, M.A. in Religion from Yale Divinity School, and B.A. from the University of Santa Clara.
What made you want to be a part of the HEEF?
After retiring from a satisfying career as a tax attorney specializing in tribal and nonprofit organizations, I was eager to back to tribal organizations, like HEEF. I have long been impressed with HEEF as an organization, as well as the quality of its professional staff and its board. Being nominated to serve on the HEEF Board was a timely opportunity for me to contribute to a tribal organization with a strong mission and organizational structure.
Why do you support the HEEF?
HEEF's main mission is to provide funding for the future education of the Hopi people, including college scholarships It also provides emergency grants to students to fund needs for technology (e.g., computers to facilitate online learning). Both are critically important in today's world.
Dr. David Strip
Executive Committee
Member Since 2017
Dr. David Strip is retired from work in computer science and research & development. David holds a B.A. in Mathematics from the University of Pennsylvania and an M.S. and Ph.D. from Cornell University.
What made you want to be a part of the HEEF?
I strongly believe in the potential for education to improve the quality of life for individuals and their communities. HEEF provides me the opportunity to put this theory into practice.
What impact do you hope to make while serving on the HEEF Board?
My goal is to see HEEF on a sound financial footing with a significantly increased donor base that grows the endowment at a rate that will eventually meet the needs of all students.
Dr. Pamela Powell
Resource Development Committee Chairperson
Member Since 2008
Dr. Pamela Powell serves as the Dean of the College of Education and Human Development at Southern Utah University. She holds a B.S. in Elementary Education/Physical Education from Texas Tech University, an M.A. in Elementary Education/Reading from Arizona State University, and an Ed.D. in Curriculum and Instruction/Early Childhood from Northern Arizona University.
What made you want to be a part of the HEEF?
I am committed to the work of the HEEF and its impact on the future of students on Hopi in providing post-secondary educational opportunities for Hopi students. I also acknowledge and appreciate the impact of the Imagine Grants on sustaining cultural practices and the Hopi language.
What impact do you hope to make while serving on the HEEF Board?
I hope to assist in raising funds for the corpus of the endowment so that the extension of the HEEF can reach further. I also hope to assist in securing grants for the HEEF to extend the Imagine grants and to "imagine" other ways to serve Hopi.
Dr. Jana Wilbricht
Marketing & Communications Committee Chairperson
Member Since 2016
Dr. Jana Wilbricht holds a Ph.D. in Communication and Media from the University of Michigan and B.Sc. in Communication & Development Sociology from Cornell University. Jana is currently serving as the Head of Communications, Bergen Centre for Ethics and Priority Setting in Health, University of Bergen (Norway).
What made you want to be a part of the HEEF?
As a first-generation student myself, who has had the opportunity to pursue a college degree followed by a PhD, both thanks in part to scholarships, I know of the life-changing impact education can have. Serving on the HEEF board is a wonderful opportunity to be part of ensuring that Hopi students can pursue the education they want to without constraints.
What impact do you hope to make while serving on the HEEF Board?
During my 9 years on the HEEF board, I have served as Chair of the Marketing and Communications Committee several times, as well as on the Executive Committee for one year as Secretary, and on different ad-hoc committees. In the future, I hope to continue serving the HEEF through committee leadership and contributions in the areas of communications, marketing, data, and technology. I would also like to help expand the HEEF's reach internationally.
Dr. Felina Cordova-Marks
Member Since 2019
Dr. Felina Cordova-Marks is a Senior Research Program Coordinator at the University of Arizona. She holds a Ph.D. in Public Health from the University of Arizona. She is a direct recipient of funding throughout her academic achievements and is looking forward to giving back to the HEEF as a new board member. Felina is a member of the Hopi tribe.
Elke Chenevey
Finance & Investment Committee Chairperson
Member Since 2022
Elke Chenevey is currently serving as a Financial Advisor and Partner for FS Advisors. She holds a B.A. in Economics from Dartmouth College and an M.B.A. from Columbia University of New York, Certified Investment Management Analyst (CIMA). She is from the Omaha Tribe of Nebraska and Iowa.
What made you want to be a part of the HEEF?
Elke has long admired HEEF for its success in providing access to education for the Hopi People. Education is foundational to the bright future of not just the Hopi Tribe but for all Tribes. In recognition of how the HEEF Mission resonates with her, she has been a long-time supporter of HEEF, and now helps with the HEEF’s continued success as a Board member.
Peter Chestnut
Member Since 2019
Peter Chestnut is an Attorney for the Chestnut Law Offices in New Mexico.
He brings an area of expertise in the Finance and Investment area for the HEEF. He holds his J.D. from the University of New Mexico and is excited for the opportunity to work with strengthening the endowment fund at the HEEF which is embedded in Hopi values/community.
Dr. Clara Lovett
Founding Member
Dr. Clara Lovett is a retired President emerita of Northern Arizona University and holds a Ph.D. in History from University of Texas. She currently resides in Chevy Chase, Maryland. She is looking forward to supporting the HEEF mission and working closely with Hopi tribal members to help support Hopi students.
What made you want to be a part of the HEEF?
As President of NAU, I worked with several tribal leaders. I was happy to support Wayne Taylor Jr. and other Hopi tribal leaders when they founded HEEF.
What impact do you hope to make while serving on the HEEF Board?
To have contributed financially and assisted the Executive Director in addressing management and political issues.
Dr. Cole Crittenden
Member Since 2020
Dr. Cole Crittenden is Vice Provost for Academic Affairs at Princeton University, where he oversees all graduate programs. He holds a B.A. from Weber State University, an M.A. and Ph.D. both from Princeton University.
What made you want to be a part of the HEEF?
My grandparents helped support educational opportunities for a Hopi student beginning in the 1950s. Through my own professional and personal experiences, I have also developed an interest in working to improve and support access to education for students from groups historically underrepresented in colleges and universities.
What impact do you hope to make while serving on the HEEF Board?
Education can be transformative, and I admire the Hopi commitment to educational opportunities through an organization committed to maintaining tribal cultural values and integrity. My service on the board is in support of that commitment.
Kevin Coochwytewa
Member Since 2023
Kevin Coochwytewa (Hopi/Isleta Pueblo) is a creative director and graphic designer based in Seattle.
He brings a strong area of expertise in design, marketing and communications, and resource development for the HEEF. He holds a BFA in studio art/visual communication from the University of Arizona and is passionately committed to helping enhance the HEEF's endowment fund which is deeply rooted in Hopi traditions and principles.
Romalita Laban
Member Since 2003
Romalita Laban is Qa'öwungwa (Corn Clan) from the Village of Walpi, and is a Consultant & Co-manager at Laban Construction. Romalita holds a B.A. in Business Administration from Northern Arizona University and certificates in Business & Management, Human Resource Management, and Marketing.
What made you want to be a part of the HEEF?
I was nominated by LuAnn Leonard, HEEF Executive Director (2000 - 2023), based on my experience, skills, and capacity to serve as a HEEF Board Member. I accepted and joined the HEEF Board as I believed in the mission and opportunities, which could aid in the furtherance of the education of itah sinom (our people). I believed I had the knowledge and experience to help further the cause.
What impact do you hope to make while serving on the HEEF Board?
The impact I would hope to make while serving on the HEEF Board is to continue instilling the essence of Hopi giving, reciprocity, and visionary foresight into perpetuity.
Verrin T. Kewenvoyouma
Member Since 2018
Verrin Kewenvoyouma is an attorney and owner of Kewenvoyouma Law, PLLC. He holds a M.B.A. from the W.P. Carey School of Business and J.D. from the Sandra Day O’Connor College of Law, Arizona State University. Verrin is Ta’neeszahnii (Tangle Clan, Navajo) and Iswungwa (Coyote Clan) from the Village of Moencopi (Lower).
Wayne Sekaquaptewa
Member Since 2021
Wayne is the General Manager at Hopi Telecommunications Inc. He holds a Bachelor of Science from DeVry University. Wayne comes from the Village of Sipaulovi and belongs to the Patkiwungwa (water) people.
What made you want to be a part of the HEEF?
I want to make a lasting impact on the future of our Hopi students’ goals to pursue further education, as well as support other continuing education efforts. I feel it is time for me to give back to our community, and serving on the HEEF Board is one way I hope to do that.
What impact do you hope to make while serving on the HEEF Board?
To grow and protect the endowment and expand its funding use to include more technical and trade opportunities and workforce development.
Daniell Albert
Member Since 2023
Daniell Albert (Hopi/Navajo) is from the Parrot (Kyar'wungwa) & Kachina (Katsinwungwa) clans, from the Village of Oraibi, affiliated village of Third Mesa. She is a proud alumna of Flagstaff High School, Arizona State University (ASU), & Northern Arizona University (NAU). She currently works at the Boys & Girls Club in Flagstaff as the Director of Operations.
What she brings to the HEEF is experience in Organizational Leadership, Project Management, Nonprofit Leadership & Special Events Coordination. Daniell is thankful for the Hopi Education Endowment Fund's support of her educational journey and would like to give back to the Hopi Community, Students, & Families.
What made you want to be a part of the HEEF?
I wanted to be a part of the HEEF to give back in gratitude for the support I received as a scholarship recipient. The foundation helped fund my education and shaped my career path, and I hope to contribute my time, talents, and expertise to help other students achieve their goals.
What impact do you hope to make while serving on the HEEF Board?
While serving on the HEEF Board, I hope to make a meaningful impact by supporting students in achieving their academic and career goals. I aim to contribute my experience in communications, event management, and organizational leadership to help advance the foundation’s initiatives and outreach. I hope to empower the next generation of students to succeed.
Sampson Taylor
Nominating Committee Chairperson
Member Since 2009
Sampson Taylor (Hopi) is from the Village of Kykotsmovi. He is a Community Development Manager for the Native American Youth & Family Center based in Oregon.
He brings an extensive area of expertise in Finance, Accounting, Public Relations, Communications, Outreach, Grant Writing, & Event Organizing to the HEEF. He holds a degree from Mesa Community College and is excited to help contribute to the local Hopi communities and committed to garnering support for the HEEF.
Tamara Woodbury
Member Since 2024
Tamara Woodbury is currently retired and is the former CEO of Girl Scouts Arizona.
Tamara is eager to share her knowledge with the HEEF in the field of Finance Accounting, Investment Planning, & Fundraising. She has a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration and is thrilled about the chance to work on strengthening the HEEF's endowment fund.
Dawn Nuvayestewa
Member Since 2024
Dawn Nuvayestewa (Hopi) is from the village of Moenkopi (Lower) and belongs to the Corn clan. Dawn holds a Master of Business Administration in Finance & Accounting from Colorado College. She is currently a Grants Management Specialist for the Bureau of Indian Education.
What Dawn brings to the HEEF is her experience & expertise in Public Speaking, Finance, Accounting, Grant Writing, & Communications. She believes in the vision of the HEEF that not only invests in education but also helps to protect and continue the Hopi people in their culture and values.
What made you want to be a part of the HEEF?
I wanted to help Hopi students achieve their goals, whether it be through technical school, community college or a four-year university. Having the experience to see what fit is best for you as a young student, as well as learning new things and meeting new people, they all help you grow as a person. Education is just one step into finding out what you love or continuing on the path of something you’ve already found that will lead you through life.
What impact do you hope to make while serving on the HEEF Board?
Help our youth become aware that there are resources out there to attend a higher education institution, and HEEF is one of many. As well as spread the word to others on how HEEF impacts students in a positive light.
Michael Lomakema
Member Since 2024
Michael Lomakema (Hopi & Navajo) is from the village of Hotevilla, affiliated village of Third Mesa. He holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Civil Engineering and a Master’s degree in Science Engineering Management & Business Administration from Northern Arizona University (NAU). He is a Senior Project Manager at Gila River Health Care.
What he brings to the HEEF is experience & expertise in Program Development, Fundraising, Strategic Planning, & Public Relations. Michael is excited to share his professional experience to serve the efforts of the HEEF in the work to support Hopi students in the pursuit of higher education.
Gina Chimerica
Member Since 2023
Gina Chimerica (Hopi) is from the village of Upper Moenkopi. Her educational background includes an Associate of Arts Degree in Network Administration, and a Bachelor of Applied Science in Applied Computing with emphasis in Network Administration from the University of Arizona. She currently serves as an IT Security Analyst for Tuba City Regional Health Care Corp. (TCRHCC).
Gina brings to the HEEF her experience & expertise in IT infrastructure and security, technical knowledge, project management, policies and procedures, and collaboration. As a Hopi community member, she feels that it is crucial to help give back to the community in efforts that provide a more sustainable future for the Hopi people.
What made you want to be a part of the HEEF?
Being funded by HEEF & the Hopi Tribe Grants & Scholarships Program (HTGSP) gave me the opportunity to obtain my degrees, and in turn, I want to give back by helping to be part of a group of folks that want to help provide opportunities to other young Hopi pursuing their dreams.
What impact do you hope to make while serving on the HEEF Board?
I hope to be able to help make positive changes that help with the overall well-being of the Fund, as it will help many individuals reach their educational goals and support positive outcomes and change, which is needed in our community as a whole.
Darren Parry
Member Since 2024
Darren Parry is the former Chairman of the Northwestern Band of the Shoshone Nation. He received and holds a Bachelor of Science in Education from Weber State University. Parry has served on many boards, including the American West Heritage Center, Utah Humanities, the Allen and Alice Stokes Nature Center, and PBS Utah. He is currently a professor, teaching History and Environmental Humanities program full-time at the University of Utah.
Since joining the Hopi Education Endowment Fund’s board, he has contributed his dedication, experience, and deep understanding of the unique challenges and opportunities students face in their higher education endeavors. His areas of expertise include Fundraising, Public Relations, Communications, and Public Speaking.
