NIGA Trade Show 2021

Claudia Gonzales
Chair
Picayune Rancheria of the Chukchansi Indians


Claudia Gonzales serves as the Chairwoman of the Picayune Rancheria of the Chukchansi Indians, whose historic tribal territory is located in Madera County. Elected in 2015 amidst the prolonged closure of the Chukchansi Gold Resort & Casino and associated financial issues, Chairwoman Gonzales has provided the fresh and bold leadership necessary to navigate a challenging period for the Tribe. During her tenure, Chairwoman Gonzales has focused on reforms and economic development in order to position the Chukchansi Tribe as a regional job’s driver and a source of pride and security for Tribal members. Over the past 5 years, Chairwoman Gonzales has confronted and remedied a number of issues including two closures of the Chukchansi Gold Resort & Casino, a debt crisis and the negative impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic on Tribal members. Chairwoman Gonzales and the Chukchansi Tribal Council recently negotiated a historic debt reduction of nearly 70%, dramatically reducing the Tribe’s debt from over $350 million to approximately $110 million. As a mother herself, Chairwoman Gonzales feels fortunate to be able to work towards a brighter future for Chukchansi youth as the Tribe’s current development efforts lay the foundation for a vibrant, thriving Tribal community for years to come.

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