The HEEF Staff
Alexandra Hoyungowa, Executive Director
Alexandra “Alex” Hoyungowa (Hopi) is Taawawung’wa (Sun Clan) and from the Village of Hotevilla, located on Third Mesa.
Hoyungowa is among the HEEF’s early success stories—a Hopi youth who, with HEEF’s support, earned a bachelor’s degree from Northern Arizona University (NAU) and went on to build a career dedicated to community empowerment and education that included a stint as the Marketing and Special Events Manager at HEEF.
Before joining HEEF in this leadership role, Hoyungowa held positions with NAU, where she focused on supporting Native American students to fulfill their educational goals and objectives. She brings a deep understanding of student development at higher educational institutions, community engagement, and cultural responsibility.
Kiara Pahovama | Resource Development Manager
Kiara is from the village of Songopavi, AZ, and is a proud member of the Bear Clan (Honwung'wa). Prior to becoming the HEEF's new RDM, Kiara served as the Assistant Principal at Hopi Jr./Sr. High School, where she demonstrated strong leadership, collaboration, and a deep commitment to our Hopi students and education.
Being one of the earliest HEEF-funded students, we are excited about the valuable perspective, and knowledge she brings to our organization in a big way.
Zion Ibarra, Marketing & Communications Manager
Email: zioni@hopieducationfund.org
Zion Ibarra (Hopi/Navajo), is Tapwung’wa (Rabbit/Tobacco Clan) from the Village of Kykotsmovi, located on Third Mesa.
Zion is a graduate of California College San Diego with an Associate’s degree in Information Technology & Networking. In his prior roles, he served as an IT Administrator/Technician at California College San Diego for several years before returning home. He brings a unique perspective and modern touch to every project he takes on.
As Marketing and Communications Manager, he assists in promoting the HEEF through external communication and the planning/coordination of Marketing efforts to increase the fund. Beyond working hours, Zion enjoys spending time and caring for his loved ones. Some of his past interests and experience as a creative include work in the NFL, Web and Graphic Design, Film, & Photography.
Marilyn Lomahaftewa, Finance Manager
Marilyn Lomahaftewa (Hopi), is Kookyangwung’wa (Spider clan) from the Village of Hotevilla, located on Third Mesa. Prior to working for the HEEF, Marilyn has had extensive experience and knowledge working under Finance at First Mesa Elementary School in Polacca, AZ.
As she has led the way throughout her career in Finance, she enjoys DIY (Do It Yourself) projects, basket-weaving, gardening, and helping others on her own quality time. She also loves to spend time with her friends and family back home.
Tiffany Bahnimptewa, Non-Profit Assistant
Tiffany Bahnimptewa (Hopi), is Patkiwung’wa (Water clan) from the Village of Hotevilla, located on Third Mesa. Tiffany brings extensive experience, skills, and knowledge to the HEEF, having worked with various non-profit organizations (Such as the Hopi Foundation & The Natwani Coalition) on the Hopi reservation.
She loves to craft, sing, and volunteer within her community in her downtime away from the office.
