New chair at state Tribal Economic Development Commission

From Montana Department of Commerce

Shelly R. Fyant was elected as the new Chair of the Montana State Tribal Economic Development Commission.

Fyant is in her second three-year term with STEDC.

“I look forward to serving the goals set by the commission to expand and improve economic opportunities for each tribal nation in Montana,” Fyant said. “Creating income earning opportunities for people, whether from a small business or through secure employment, is a goal embraced by our tribal council.”

Representing the Arlee District, Fyant serves as chair for the Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes and holds a business administration degree from the University of Montana. 

The STEDC works in a government-to-government relationship to expand and improve economic prosperity opportunities through business expansion, capital access, manufacturing, tourism, agriculture and community development. The governor appoints the members, including one from each of the eight tribal governments in Montana.  

Established in the Native American Economic Development Act of 1999, the commission gathers for public meetings throughout Montana on a quarterly basis.

Other members include:

• Richard Sangrey, vice-chair, Chippewa Cree Tribe

• Cheryl Reevis, Blackfeet Tribe

• Shawn Real Bird, Crow Tribe

• Ray King, Fort Belknap Indian Community

• Kaci Wallette, Fort Peck Tribes

• Gerald Gray, Little Shell Tribe

• Lane Spotted Elk, Northern Cheyenne Tribe

• Misty Kuhl, Governor’s Office of Indian Affairs

• Scott Osterman, Montana Department of Commerce.

Fyant will replace longtime Chair Shawn Real Bird.