Tribal Government and Leadership for Tribal Executives
and Council Members
Governing

The people of your community have entrusted you with a great responsibility. Serving as a member of your tribal government is rewarding — and challenging. Are you ready for the challenge?

An effective tribal leader is ethical, dedicated and fiscally responsible. To create positive change, you need to understand the entire organizational structure and the tools for meaningful government.

Falmouth Institute is proud to present Tribal Government and Leadership — your opportunity to learn about best practices in the legislative process, planning, leadership, organizational development, parliamentary procedure and building relationships. Your community is counting on you — let us help you learn and understand the complexities of your role as a tribal leader.

The decisions you make now will have a profound effect for decades to come. What kind of community will you leave the next generation? Will your members be proud, safe and strong? Will they have the resources and knowledge to govern their tribe? Define your vision. Set your goals. If you are a tribal chairperson or council member, board member or executive, you won’t want to miss this informative, skillbuilding program.

Topics that will be covered include:

Structure and Responsibilities of Tribal Government Organizational chart Functions of your tribal government Rights and responsibilities of tribal leaders Roles and relationships of tribal council, boards, executives and staff Policy-making function Organizational and program planning Maintaining effectiveness and continuity of the organization Liability rules and issues Leadership as a Governing Role Leadership styles Leadership vs. management Group dynamics Managing conflict Playing an effective role in meetings Articulating your vision Ethics Conflicts of interest Standards of conduct Effect of politics on ethics Practical problems Impacting the Political Process When tribes are treated like state governments Making the most of your status as a tribal leader

Strategic Planning A Native perspective of planning Identifying your mission, goals and objectives Elements of planning: Direct, assess and strategize Plan, modify and evaluate Critical questions Developing a plan for shortand long-term growth The Tribal Legislative Process Working within the bounds of the tribal constitution Developing laws, bylaws and ordinances Allowing public input and debate Voting and elections Publishing legislation Write a sample law Mock legislative/committee session Parliamentary Procedures Using parliamentary procedures/Robert’s Rules of Order as a governing tool Meeting objectives and structure Maintaining control during meetings Ensuring a democratic process Order of business Quorum, minutes and voting Importance of full and free debate Effective use of the executive session Committees and committee reports Motivating members and acting like a leader