About HUṠWEJ
Nonprofit Governance
HUṠWEJ’s governance structure is intentionally designed to uphold Tribal sovereignty, accountability, and transparency.
Leadership is shared across interconnected roles that center the Nevada City Rancheria Nisenan Tribal Council while providing the administrative and fiduciary oversight required of a nonprofit organization.
Nevada City Rancheria Tribal Council
The Tribal Council is the heart of HUṠWEJ’s governance.
As the elected leadership of the Tribe, the Tribal Council carries the responsibilities of articulating Tribal priorities, needs, and long-term vision. The Tribal Council provides guidance on how HUṠWEJ can best serve the Tribal community and holds final authority over the organization’s direction.
The Tribal Council:
Defines Tribal priorities and long-term goals
Guides program development and strategic direction
Reviews and approves or declines major initiatives, partnerships, and funding proposals
Ensures that all work aligns with Nisenan values, Cultural protocols, and Tribal wellbeing
HUṠWEJ exists in service to the Tribe, and the Tribal Council’s leadership ensures that the organization remains grounded in accountability o the Nevada City Rancheria Nisenan People first and foremost.
HUṠWEJ Board of Directors
Serving under the guidance of the Tribal Council, the HUṠWEJ Board of Directors is responsible for governance, oversight, and organizational stewardship. The Board translates Tribal priorities into nonprofit strategy, policy, and operational decision-making, while ensuring legal compliance, financial responsibility, and organizational integrity.
The Board:
Is composed of a majority Indigenous members
Includes members of the Nevada City Rancheria Nisenan Tribal Council
Provides fiduciary oversight and governance
Supports fundraising, partnerships, and long-term organizational health
The Board’s role is not to set Tribal priorities, but to ensure that HUṠWEJ has the capacity, structure, and resources to carry those priorities forward effectively.