Native Leadership & Representation
Leadership takes many forms — from classrooms to council chambers, from campus to community. The Payne Family Native American Center honors and recognizes the Native leaders, educators, and advocates who continue to strengthen our nations and inspire future generations.
Across Montana, Tribal Councils, legislators, and college presidents are shaping policies, preserving culture, and creating opportunities that reflect the strength and sovereignty of Indigenous peoples. Their work reminds us that education and leadership are deeply connected — and that every student here is part of that living legacy.
Montana's Tribal Council Members
Each of Montana’s tribal nations is guided by elected councils who serve their people and lands with vision and responsibility. These Tribal Councils uphold sovereignty, govern community programs, and work with state and federal agencies to advance Native priorities.
(You could include a grid or list of the 12 Montana tribes here — each linking to their official council websites if available.)
Below you’ll find links to each Nation’s official website, where you can learn more about their leadership, programs, and priorities.
Montana Tribal Council's Members
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Tribes: Ktunaxa–Ksanka, Selis, Qlispe
Location: Pablo, Montana
Website: CSKT.org
The CSKT Tribal Council governs the Flathead Reservation, focusing on land stewardship, education, and sovereignty initiatives.
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Tribes: Amskapii Pikanii
Location: Browning, Montana
Website: Blackfeetnation.com
The Blackfeet Tribal Business Council oversees the governance of the Blackfeet Nation, supporting programs in health, education, natural resources, and cultural preservation.
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Tribes: Chippewa-Cree
Location: Box Elder, Montana
Website: Chippewa-cree.org
The Chippewa-Cree Business Committee governs with a focus on education, health, housing, and the preservation of Cree and Chippewa languages and traditions.
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Tribes: Aaniiih & Nakoda
Location: Harlem, Montana
Website: ftbelknap.org
The Fort Belknap Indian Community Council leads efforts in cultural revitalization, economic development, and land management.
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Tribes: Nakona & Dakota
Location: Poplar, Montana
Website: forthpecktribes.org
The Fort Peck Tribal Executive Board provides leadership for programs in education, housing, economic growth, and cultural wellbeing.
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Tribes: Northern Cheyenne
Location: Lame Deer, Montana
Website: cheyennenation.com
The Northern Cheyenne Tribal Council works to strengthen cultural identity, promote sustainable development, and protect tribal sovereignty.
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Tribes: Apsaalooke
Location: Crow Agency, Montana
Website: crow-nsn.gov
The Northern Cheyenne Tribal Council works to strengthen cultural identity, promote sustainable development, and protect tribal sovereignty.
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Tribes: Chippewa
Location: Great Falls, Montana
Website: montanalittleshelltribe.org
The Little Shell Tribe, recognized in 2019, continues to build programs that honor their Métis and Chippewa heritage and expand services for enrolled members statewide.
Montana's Tribal College Presidents
Montana is home to several Tribal Colleges, each led by presidents who carry forward a mission of education rooted in Indigenous values, community, and self-determination. These institutions are more than schools — they’re homes of knowledge, language, and leadership.
Tribal Colleges of Montana
Montana American Indian Caucus (MAIC) ~ represents Native leaders who serve within the Montana Legislature — both the Senate and the House of Representatives. These leaders work to advance issues important to Indigenous communities, uphold tribal sovereignty, and ensure Native voices are heard in state decision-making.
https://www.legmt.gov/statistics/tribal/
