FORT MCDOWELL YAVAPAI NATION TRIBAL INAUGURATION
By Harrison J. Bahe
On February 10, 2026, the newly elected leaders of the Fort McDowell Yavapai Nation Tribal Council were formally sworn into office during an inauguration ceremony held at the We-Ko-Pa Casino & Resort. Hundreds of tribal and community members and dignitaries from across Arizona gathered in attendance as Bernadine Burnette, Verlene Baptisto, and Paul J. Russell took their oaths of office as Tribal Council Member, Tribal Secretary, and Vice President, respectively.
Master of Ceremonies Calvin Pilcher, Jr. opened the program by introducing the ceremonial procession of council members, beginning with Gerald Doka, followed by Ernestine Kill and President Sandra Pattea. The newly elected officials followed, each escorted to the stage by loved ones and family members.
The Fort McDowell Veterans Association presented the colors with honor and precision, followed by the Pledge of Allegiance led by members of the Fort McDowell Ba’:Hmanya Magiyoda Youth Council and tribal royalty: Miss Fort McDowell Dexwarena Ponciano-Wathogoma, Junior Miss Fort McDowell Millie Duenas Nelson, and Miss Pai Woman Wendy Thomas.
Reverend Catherine Wittie delivered a powerful invocation that filled the room with reflection, peace, and inspiration. President Sandra Pattea then offered official remarks, warmly welcoming attendees and recognizing the distinguished dignitaries present, who stood in acknowledgment of their support for Indigenous governance and sovereignty.
Arizona Attorney General Kris Mayes delivered a heartfelt address, sharing personal memories of attending school alongside Vice President Paul J. Russell in their youth. Her remarks reflected both pride and deep admiration as she expressed her continued support for his leadership.
Mona Jones, Chairwoman of the Election Committee, formally announced the certified election results and spoke emotionally about the profound importance of Indigenous elections in strengthening sovereignty. The official oaths of office were then administered by the Honorable Chief Judge Brian Utsey. Each elected official solemnly affirmed their oath upon their own personal Bible.
Two blessings followed; one offered in the traditional way by respected elder Donald Beckman, and a Christian blessing delivered by Senior Pastor Chris Moore of Valley Church, both beautifully reflecting the Nation’s cultural and spiritual diversity.
The ceremony continued with video tributes honoring each sworn-in council member, featuring photographs from pivotal moments in their lives accompanied by songs of their choosing. Each tribute was followed by inaugural remarks in which the newly seated leaders expressed their dedication to guiding the Fort McDowell Yavapai Nation toward a strong and prosperous future. The event concluded with a heartfelt benediction by respected elder Gwen Bahe, who offered a deeply personal prayer for continued blessings upon the community.
The 2026 Inauguration was a seamless and meaningful celebration of leadership, tradition, and collective hope. The gathering stood as a testament to the strength and unity of the Fort McDowell Yavapai Nation. We at the Yavapai News extend our sincere congratulations to the newly sworn-in officials and wish them success as they lead our community into a brighter tomorrow.
