Alex Armendariz has been named the new director of Tribal Relations in the Office of Government, Tribal, and Community Relations. As director, he will play a central role in strengthening CSUSB’s relationships with Tribal Nations and advancing the university’s commitment to Native student success and community engagement.
Michael Chavez (Gabrielino-Tongva) ’19, ’22 returns to his alma mater as the university’s new Native American Graves Protection and Repatriation Act (NAGPRA) program manager.
“We, as the nation’s largest public university, need to do the very best we can in advancing tribal relations, enhancing the education of Native American students, expanding the academic knowledge of indigenous communities, and preserving their cultural heritage,” said CSUSB President Tomás D. Morales.
The California Truth & Healing Council’s Nov. 18 quarterly meeting included a blessing by San Manuel Band of Mission Indian bird singers, community testimonials, a panel discussion, and speaker Kimberly Cluff, legal director of California Tribal Families Coalition.