Amanda Lomayesva (Tucson, 2015)
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1. Can you please describe your work and how public policy impacts how you manage your organization?
I am the general counsel for the Pascua Yaqui Tribe’s Gaming and Tribal Enterprise Divisions, Casino Del Sol, AVA Amphitheater, and Sewailo Golf Club. In my position, I advise the enterprises, review agreements, and work on gaming compact related issues. The policies of the tribal government affect my work very directly as the enterprises are wholly owned divisions of the tribal government. Federal Indian law and policy also affects tribal entities. The casino operates under a compact with the state of Arizona, so that agreement with the state is of utmost importance to my work.
2. Do you have a favorite quote that is meaningful to you?
I have many, but I do love the quote by Maya Angelou: “I’ve learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.”
3. Is there a book you would recommend to the Fellows?
“Where the Water Goes: Life and Death Along the Colorado River” by David Owen is a book I would recommend. I would think anyone in Arizona would be interested in this excellent description of “where the water goes” and all the attendant issues and problems surrounding the river we all share.
4. How has the Fellows Network been useful to you?
The Fellows Network provides a resource of people that you can feel good reaching out to for opinions and ideas. I’ve enjoyed being a part of it.
5. What do you see as potential opportunities strengthening civic health in Arizona?
I think working toward full engagement in the election process, making sure Arizona keeps voting as accessible to all Arizonans, including tribal members and those living in remote parts of the state, is of utmost importance. I see that as an incredibly important opportunity.
If you missed a Fellows Spotlight, you can view them on the Arizona Center for Civic Leadership website now.