Team & Leadership

Meet the American Indigenous Tourism Association Team

The dynamic teamwork of the American Indigenous Tourism Association’s staff, Board of Directors, funders, partners, consultants and members is the most significant driver in pursuing and realizing our mission. Our team has significant experience working in Indigenous travel and tourism as well as expertise in economic and program development, rural planning and marketing.

Sherry L. Rupert

Chief Executive Officer

Hannah Peterson

Program Development Director

Gail E. Chehak

Community and Partner Relations Director

Dawnielle Tehama

Education and Business Development Director

Colleen Coleman

Community Navigator Project Director

Bruce Rettig

Research and Outreach Manager

Ariel Richardson

Office Manager

Amanda Warner

Information and Outreach Manager

Sherrie L. Bowman

Education Support Specialist

Geri Hongeva

Tribal Content Developer

Lorraine Gala Lewis

Research and Outreach Coordinator

Eric Villegas

Partner Program Coordinator

Kayla Sawyer

Digital Content & Social Media Specialist

Jaime Begay-Charley

Community Navigator

Justin Jones