The William S. Boyd School of Law at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas, and the Tribal Leadership Council on Tuesday announced a new partnership to launch an executive education certification focused on Tribal governance, business strategy and organizational leadership.
The Executive Certificate in Tribal Sovereignty and Economic Leadership Program is designed to meet the growing demand for professionals who can navigate complex legal frameworks, drive business innovation and lead with cultural competency across diverse environments.
Offered through UNLV’s Indian Nations Gaming & Governance Program, the certification provides instruction in law, business, leadership and finance. The integrated curriculum is designed to equip participants with the skills and knowledge needed to succeed in today’s evolving professional landscape.
“This partnership reflects UNLV’s commitment to providing cutting-edge executive education that meets the evolving needs of today’s leaders,” said Danielle Finn, director of the Indian Nations Gaming & Governance Program and a citizen of the Standing Rock Sioux Tribe. “By combining academic excellence with practical expertise, we’re creating a transformative learning experience that prepares professionals for the challenges of modern leadership.”
The program is made possible through support from San Manuel Cares, the charitable arm of the Yuhaaviatam of San Manuel Nation, which awarded a grant to the Tribal Leadership Council to develop and launch the initiative. The certification is designed for business professionals and Tribal leaders seeking to strengthen their expertise in Tribal business operations, Tribal economies, government relations and strategic leadership.
“We’re excited about being able to bring non-faculty instructors to teach and develop material to ensure that we are bringing a Tribal perspective to the program,” said Justin Barrett, president of the Tribal Leadership Council. “This program brings together exceptional Indigenous leaders and scholars who bring real-world experience and cultural expertise to the classroom.”
The program features a roster of Indigenous leaders and scholars, including Eric S. Trevan, Ph.D., a citizen of the Match-e-be-nash-she-wish Band of Pottawatomi. Trevan, president and CEO of aLocal.ai, also serves on enterprise boards for multiple Tribal nations and will teach the economics and finance modules.
The governance module will be taught by Crystal Miller of the Walker River Paiute Tribe and Jesse Downs, MPA, of the Shoalwater Bay Tribe. Finn will teach the Federal Indian law module, drawing on her experience as both an academic and a Tribal judge.
The certification will be held July 28–30, 2026, on the UNLV campus. A welcome reception is scheduled for July 27. The Palms, owned by the San Manuel Gaming & Hospitality Authority, a business arm of the Yuhaaviatam of San Manuel Nation, will serve as the host hotel property.