Richard Gomez: Chumash family makes state contributions

In March, Gov. Jerry Brown appointed Santa Ynez Chumash tribal member Reggie Pagaling to the California Native American Heritage Commission. This is an honor for our tribe because of the work done by the commission to protect cultural resources, burial grounds and other sacred sites.

Earlier this year, the governor appointed another member of our Santa Ynez Chumash family to the state Board of Education. Dr. Niki Sandoval is our tribal government’s education director and the first tribal descendant to obtain a doctorate degree in education. She is a lecturer in the Education Department at UCSB, her alma mater.

Another Chumash family member, Kathleen Marshall, has also been sharing her experience and wisdom on the state’s American Indian Education Oversight Committee. Marshall was recently reappointed by State Superintendent of Public Instruction Tom Torlakson. The committee provides input and advice to the superintendent on all aspects of American Indian educational programs established by the state.