Larry EchoHawk, the new head of the Bureau of Indian Affairs, announced Donald "Del" Laverdure, a member of the Crow Tribe of Montana, as his principal deputy assistant secretary. "Del Laverdure is a dedicated public servant and experienced law professional who has built his career on service to his tribe and to Indian Country," EchoHawk, a member of the Pawnee Nation of Oklahoma, said. "He shares my vision for improving tribal communities, supporting tribal sovereignty and self-determination, and honoring the federal trust responsibility. I am deeply gratified that he has joined Indian Affairs as part of my management team." Laverdure most recently served as chief legal counsel to the Crow Tribe. EchoHawk said he was instrumental in securing the tribe's endorsement of now-President Barack Obama. The announcement completes EchoHawk's team in Washington, D.C. Also serving are Wizipan Garriott, a member of the Rosebud Sioux Tribe of South Dakota, as policy adviser; Tracie Stevens, a member of the Tulalip Tribes of Washington, as senior adviser; and Paul Tsosie, a member of the Navajo Nation, as chief of staff. Related Stories:
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