FULTON, MI – The Nottawaseppi Huron Band of the Potawatomi (NHBP) administered the oath of office today to newly elected Tribal Council members Jessica Blain and Robert Larson, and re-elected Council member Dorie Rios, during the regularly scheduled Tribal Council Business Meeting held Thursday, Nov. 20, at the Pine Creek Community Center.
Blain brings more than 30 years of business management experience, guiding and working with multiple companies through startups, expansions, global training programs and acquisitions. She has previously served on the NHBP Enrollment Committee and Election Board.
“It’s an honor to serve the NHBP tribal community in this new role,” said Blain. “I look forward to bringing my experience in business and leadership to support our Nation’s continued growth and prosperity. I’m committed to listening, learning and working collaboratively to strengthen our programs and services for all members.”
Larson brings experience working with the Little River Band of Ottawa Indians in natural resource management, and as a natural resource and environmental management professor at GVSU. Larson is a U.S. Army Reserve veteran and former firefighter. He also serves on GVSU’s Native American Advisory Council.
“I’m grateful for the opportunity to serve our tribal nation and to help protect and preserve our natural resources for future generations,” said Larson. “As a veteran and educator, I believe in the power of service and knowledge, and I’m excited to contribute to the important work of tribal governance.”
Rios begins her fifth term as a Tribal Council member, having served continuously since 2010. Beginning in 1998, with more than 27 years of dedicated service to NHBP, Rios brings extensive experience in tribal government, housing, and community development initiatives. Dorie has provided continuity and leadership through periods of tremendous growth for NHBP. Her tenure on Tribal Council and involvement in multiple committees have allowed her to oversee and guide the Tribe in key decisions, ensuring that the needs of every generation are met.
“It’s been a privilege to serve our community as a tribal leader over the past 15 years, and I’m humbled to continue that work,” said Rios. “I remain deeply committed to advancing healthcare, housing, education, cultural initiatives, and economic opportunities that reflect our values and support the well-being of all NHBP members.”
In addition to swearing in the newly elected Tribal Council members, the Tribal Council also voted on officer appointments during today’s meeting, naming Homer A. Mandoka as Chairperson, Ariel Boonstra as Vice Chairperson, Jessica Blain as Secretary, Robert Larson as Treasurer, and Dorie Rios as Sergeant-at-Arms.