At Thunderbird Strategic, we approach advocacy the way business leaders approach the market: with focus, discipline, and measurable outcomes. In an environment as complex and competitive as Washington, DC, having a prestigious resume or a seat at the table isn’t enough. What matters is delivering results—and we do so by treating every client priority as a value proposition aimed at a well-defined audience: lawmakers, agency officials, and key decision-makers within the federal government.

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Our process begins with a deep dive into the substance of our clients’ priorities. We deconstruct the issue, identify the core value it offers, and then strategically reassemble it into a compelling policy package. This is more than messaging—it’s precision advocacy, grounded in strategy and sustained by relationship-building. From there, we develop clear metrics and short-term benchmarks to ensure progress is transparent, performance is accountable, and goals are met with consistency and integrity.

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In today’s Washington, success isn’t defined by who you know—it’s about how you navigate the Hill. And that’s where Thunderbird Strategic excels.  My own experience spans law, policy, and tribal leadership. As the former Chief Executive Officer of the National Congress of American Indians (NCAI) and Executive Director of the Native American Contractors Association (NACA), I had the privilege of leading some of Indian Country’s most sophisticated advocacy teams. I traveled the country meeting with tribal leaders, listening to their concerns, and designing responsive strategies rooted in tribal sovereignty and economic self-determination.

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As a proud member of the Forest County Potawatomi Community, I’ve seen firsthand the importance of building institutions that honor culture while advancing opportunity. I served as Chairman of the Board for the Potawatomi Business Development Corporation—FCPC’s economic engine—and I come from a family deeply rooted in tribal leadership. Both my grandfather and great-grandfather served as Tribal Chairman. That legacy fuels my passion and commitment to serve Native Nations and other underserved constituencies through Thunderbird Strategic.

Prior to founding the firm, I practiced law at the Washington, DC firm of PilieroMazza PLLC, representing a diverse client base that taught me the value of listening carefully and solving problems creatively. Whether advising a tribal government, advocating on Capitol Hill, or building multi-sector partnerships, I bring a practical, results-oriented mindset shaped by my experience as an attorney, business executive, and advocate.

Education

• J.D., University of Baltimore School of Law

• B.S., Louisiana State University / University of Baltimore

• Executive Leadership Certificate, Wharton School, University of Pennsylvania

• Executive Finance Certificate, Harvard University

Bar Admissions

• Maryland

• District of Columbia

• U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia

• U.S. District Court for the District of Maryland

Board Appointments

• Board Member, Commerce Financial Holdings / Commerce State Bank

• Board Member, Race Forward