The National Congress of American Indians (NCAI) mourns the passing of JoAnn K. Chase (Mandan, Hidatsa and Arikara), a visionary leader and former executive director who elevated the organization’s national profile and championed the rights of Tribal Nations throughout the United States. NCAI extends its heartfelt condolences to her family, the Mandan, Hidatsa and Arikara Nation, and to all who were touched by her leadership, mentorship, and friendship.
Chase served as executive director of NCAI and the NCAI Fund from 1994 to 2001. During that time, she significantly expanded the organization’s reach and effectiveness—tripling its staff, operating budget, and Tribal membership. Under her guidance, NCAI became a more visible and influential advocate for Tribal sovereignty in Washington, D.C. She collaborated closely with Tribal leaders, members of Congress, the Executive Branch, and national civil rights organizations to advance policies that upheld Tribal self-determination and protected the rights of Tribal Nations.
“The role of executive director is both a privilege and an earned trust – one that requires listening, humility, and unwavering commitment to Tribal sovereignty,” said NCAI Executive Director Larry Wright Jr.. “JoAnn carried that trust with honor. Her leadership expanded NCAI’s capacity and strengthened our voice in Washington, and her legacy continues to guide the work we do for Tribal Nations today.”
Before becoming executive director, Chase held several key leadership positions at NCAI, including Director of Governmental Affairs and Policy Analyst. In these roles, she helped build and implement the organization’s governmental affairs program, shaped its public policy strategy, and deepened its legislative advocacy on behalf of Tribal governments.
Throughout her distinguished career, Chase remained dedicated to fostering inclusive institutions and cultivating Native leadership. After her tenure at NCAI, she served as Director of the American Indian Environmental Office at the United States Environmental Protection Agency, where she provided national leadership on environmental protection and Tribal consultation. She later continued her work in philanthropy, policy, and the arts, advancing initiatives that broadened opportunity and representation for Indigenous Peoples and communities of color.
NCAI honors JoAnn Chase’s lasting contributions to Tribal Nations and to the generations of Native leaders who carry forward the foundation she helped build. Her legacy endures in the institutions she strengthened and in the ongoing advancement of Tribal sovereignty across Indian Country.
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