The Cowlitz Indian Tribe has announced three hirings for top-level positions.
The tribe announced its new Tribal Administrator Michael Watkins, Director of Natural Resources Dalton Fry and Information Technology Director William Saunders in a news release.
Watkins previously served as the tribe’s director of health and human services where he oversaw the delivery of traditional, modern and culturally sensitive medical and social service practices to tribal members, a news release stated. In his new role. he will be responsible for managing the daily operations of the tribal government.
That includes planning and directing all administrative and operational activities consistent with the tribal council approved budgets, policies and procedures, according to the release.
Fry previously served as the fish distribution and lands manager for the tribe within the natural resources department, the release stated. In his new role, he will lead the department in its work to ensure that plants, animals and landscapes central to the Cowlitz culture persist and thrive for future generations.
The work is achieved by restoring ecosystems, maintaining lands and providing fish and forest resources to all members of the tribe, the release stated.
Saunders has a long career in information technology, most recently serving as the chief information officer at Tactical Air Support, Inc., the release stated. In his new role as IT director for the tribe, “he will provide vision and leadership for developing and implementing information systems and technology initiatives,” the release stated.
Cowlitz General Council Chairwoman Patty Kinswa-Gaiser welcomed the three into their new roles.
“These are critical roles for upholding the Tribe’s mission of serving our membership, preserving our aboriginal lands and our cultural teachings, and advancing shared prosperity for Cowlitz Indian Tribal members and our neighbors,” Kinswa-Gaiser said in the release. “With the help of their leadership, our Tribe is poised to continue reaching new heights.”
