Sovereignty Shift

Valandra Takes Helm at Indian Land Tenure Foundation

A Sicangu Lakota leader guides ILTF toward ancestral land return and tribal sovereignty

Buffalo’s Fire

Buffalo’s Fire

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This story was filed on February 25, 2025

The Indian Land Tenure Foundation has appointed Howard D. Valandra as interim president following the retirement of Cris Stainbrook, who led the organization for 23 years.

Valandra, a Sicangu Lakota and enrolled member of the Rosebud Sioux Tribe, previously served as vice president of grants and programs at ILTF from 2002 to 2009.

ILTF supports tribal sovereignty through land recovery, sustainable land management and education.

The organization works to return lands within the original boundaries of reservations and other areas of significance to tribal ownership.

Howard D. Valandra
Howard D. Valandra

“With a deep understanding of the challenges and opportunities facing tribal communities, Howard will play a crucial role in advancing the foundation’s mission,” said Linnea Jackson (Hoopa), chair of the ILTF board.

Valandra, who was raised on the Rosebud Sioux Reservation, has experience in banking, tribal land management and economic development. He previously served as executive director of Tribal Land Enterprises at Rosebud and has worked as a consultant for tribal governments and organizations.

“Coming back to Indian Land Tenure Foundation is a great opportunity to provide continued guidance and grounding and to explore future endeavors with the board and staff,” Valandra said.

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Buffalo’s Fire

Buffalo’s Fire

Location: Bismarck, North Dakota

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