NIGA Trade Show 2021

Bernadine Burnette
President
Fort McDowell Yavapai Nation


A descendent of the late Carlos “Wassaja” Montezuma and the late granddaughter of Margaret Dickens, Bernadine Burnette has led the Fort McDowell Yavapai Nation for more than two decades – during which time she has held the position of Secretary, Vice President and, most recently, President. Bernadine Burnette was re-elected to the Office of President in 2020. Leveraging her work experience for four decades, her hard work and dedication have resulted in substantial tribal economic growth including the new We-Ko-Pa Casino Resort; a definite place in Tribal, County, State and Federal government; and assure services and programs continue and are available for Tribal Members. Recently named one of the Most Influential Women in Arizona Business, Burnette also currently serves as President of the Inter Tribal Council of Arizona (ITCA) and Vice President of the Inter Tribal Association of Arizona (ITAA), and has held previous positions as President and Vice President of the Arizona Indian Gaming Association and Secretary of the National Indian Gaming Association. Her current and past memberships also include the National Congress of American Indians, the National Tribal Environmental Council, the National Indian Education Association, and the Maricopa Association of Governments Regional Council. Believing that family is the foundation of every community, Burnette is proudly married to Wayland Burnette and has a son, daughter, niece, three grandchildren and many relatives. In both her personal and professional lives, she will continue to Work with the People and For the People.

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