WASHINGTON D.C. – The National Congress of American Indians is excited to announce Greg Masten as the new NCAI Foundation (NCAIF) President. In this vital role, Masten's extensive experience in philanthropy and education will guide the Foundation's initiatives in empowering Tribal Nations and American Indian and Alaska Native (AI/AN) communities.

“We are honored to have Greg Masten join our team and launch the NCAI Foundation,” said NCAI Executive Director Larry Wright, Jr. “His leadership in philanthropy, coupled with his deep commitment to Tribal Nations, makes him an exceptional asset to our organization. With his guidance, we look forward to strengthening our impact across Indian Country.”

Masten, an enrolled citizen of the Yurok Tribe and a descendant of the Hupa and Karuk Tribes, brings a wealth of experience to NCAI. With a career spanning nearly three decades, Masten’s expertise shines in the realm of philanthropy, where he has been instrumental in forging new pathways and partnerships. These endeavors have led to groundbreaking investments in Tribal Nations, focusing on areas such as tribally-led environmental issues, education, and racial equity.

Prior to joining the Foundation, Masten launched various initiatives, directed fundraising for college expansion and scholarships, and addressed educational barriers for Native American students. He also co-chairs the Priorities, Projects, and Campaigns committee with the America the Beautiful for All Coalition, and previously developed a philanthropic platform for Tribal Nations as Vice President of Tribal Nations Engagement and Special Projects at Native Americans in Philanthropy.

Under Masten's guidance, the NCAI Foundation is poised to amplify its vital contributions to the empowerment and advancement of Tribal Nations and AI/AN communities. Masten has identified several critical initiatives, such as upholding tribal sovereignty, empowering tribal leadership, and cultivating Native youth leadership, as part of the Foundation's new strategic roadmap. The Foundation's approach diverges from traditional models, adopting NCAI’s Equity and Sovereignty Framework that aligns with the aspirations of Tribal Nations. This approach is rooted in mutual respect and aims at collective betterment, positioning Tribal Nations at the forefront of global sustainability and social justice initiatives.

“The NCAI Foundation is not just an adjunct to our existing structure but a pioneering entity in its own right,” Wright, Jr. added. “It stands at a unique intersection of traditional wisdom and contemporary strategies, championing the causes of tribal sovereignty, cultural heritage, and environmental justice."

Masten and the NCAI Foundation team are set to lead these efforts, leveraging Masten's experience in forming dynamic partnerships and steering critical priorities, such as the new tribal climate action platform. These efforts and milestones collectively reflect NCAI's effective advocacy and the broader Native community's resilience and leadership globally.

###

About the National Congress of American Indians:

Founded in 1944, the National Congress of American Indians is the oldest, largest, and most representative American Indian and Alaska Native organization in the country. NCAI advocates on behalf of tribal governments and communities, promoting strong tribal-federal government-to-government policies, and promoting a better understanding among the general public regarding American Indian and Alaska Native governments, people, and rights. For more information, visit www.ncai.org.