LAPWAI, ID — The Nez Perce Tribe has appointed Danae Wilson as Interim Executive Director of tribal government operations, effective March 26, 2025. Wilson, an enrolled member of the Nez Perce Tribe, brings more than three decades of experience in tribal broadband policy and digital sovereignty to the role.

Wilson steps into the position following the departure of Jesse Leighton, who served as Executive Director for the past five years. Leighton will remain involved in an advisory capacity during the transition.

“Danae’s leadership skills, technical expertise, and deep commitment to Tribal communities make her exceptionally well-suited to guide the Nez Perce Tribe during this transitional period,” said Shannon F. Wheeler, Chairman of the Nez Perce Tribal Executive Committee. “We are honored to welcome her into this role and confident in the steady, strategic leadership she brings.”

Wilson most recently served as Director of the Division of Indigenous Connectivity and Technology within the Bureau of Indian Affairs. Her work has spanned national platforms and key federal efforts, including a two-year detail to the White House Office of Science and Technology Policy as Assistant Director for Internet Access.

Prior to her federal service, Wilson led the Nez Perce Tribe’s Department of Information Technology for 27 years, spearheading efforts to bring high-speed internet to Tribal lands. She also worked with Meta as a consultant, developing a Tribal connectivity plan and helping establish trial networks in Native communities.

Leighton expressed gratitude in a public statement, saying, “It’s been an honor to work alongside so many incredible individuals over the past five years. As I step away, I have full confidence that Ms. Wilson will continue the important work with the same dedication and momentum to ensure our tribe’s continued success.”

Chairman Wheeler acknowledged Leighton’s service as pivotal in strengthening operations and centering the values of the Nez Perce people. “His contributions left a lifelong legacy,” Wheeler said.

Recruitment for the permanent Executive Director position will begin immediately. In the meantime, tribal leadership emphasized its continued focus on serving the community with strength, integrity, and continuity.