Leadership & Governance

Our Board & Staff

Indigenous Association is a grassroots, Native-led non-profit organization based in Fargo, ND, dedicated to serving and uniting the broader Fargo–Moorhead area. Guided by a Board of Directors and leadership team representing Tribal Nations across the region and beyond, our team brings diverse professional expertise, lived experience, and deep cultural roots.

Since our founding in 2020, our mission has been to unite, connect, and strengthen our local Indigenous community. We serve as a primary hub for cultural preservation, community building, and empowerment through workshops, seasonal events, and culturally grounded programs.

Governance

Board of Directors

Our dedicated board members guide the mission, vision, and strategic direction of the Indigenous Association.

Whitney Johnson– Board Chair
Lauretta Blakely – Board Vice Chair
Jorden Donner – Board Treasurer
Anne Lafrinier-Ritchie – Board Secretary
Trevan Longfeather – Board Member
Ruth Ann Buffalo – Board Member
Emily Sargent – Board Member

Team

Staff Members

Meet the team managing daily operations, community outreach, and programmatic initiatives.

Brandon is a White Earth descendant, founding board member of the Indigenous Association, and current Executive Director.

Brandon Baity

Executive Director

Brandon is a White Earth descendant, founding board member of the Indigenous Association, and current Executive Director.

Renee R. Ellis is a visionary entrepreneur and proud member of the Navajo Nation, serving as the founder of Ellis Transit, LLC, and an IBA advocate.

Renee Ellis

Indigenous Business Association Lead

Renee R. Ellis is a visionary entrepreneur and proud member of the Navajo Nation, serving as the founder of Ellis Transit, LLC, and an IBA advocate.

Mora works for Indigenous Association's social media. You'll often find her at events taking photos! She strives to amplify the Fargo-Moorhead community and work towards unity.

Mora Sanders

Social Media

Mora works for Indigenous Association's social media. You'll often find her at events taking photos! She strives to amplify the Fargo-Moorhead community and work towards unity.

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Tanya RedRoad

Ogimaa Youth Group, Open Craft Night Coordinator

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Vanessa is a web developer at Indigenous Association, where she brings creative designs to life with her expertise.

Vanessa Parker

Web Developer

Vanessa is a web developer at Indigenous Association, where she brings creative designs to life with her expertise.

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Andrew Blackbird has a Master's in Natural Resource Management, he is passionate about nature conservation and restoration. He loves learning about traditional Anishinabee medicines and ceremonies.

Andrew Blackbird

Garden Manager

Andrew Blackbird has a Master's in Natural Resource Management, he is passionate about nature conservation and restoration. He loves learning about traditional Anishinabee medicines and ceremonies.

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Sandi Berlin

Elder in residence

Candi Smith, MAS, RN, IBCLC, PCD

Maternal and Child Health Lead

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Tara Toxel

Ogimma Youth Group

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Sadie Nelson

Ogimma Youth Group Lead