Indian Affairs Department News:
SANTA FE — Indian Affairs Secretary Designate, James R. Mountain has introduced two distinguished individuals joining the New Mexico Indian Affairs Department. Janelle Frederick, the new Deputy Cabinet Secretary, a member of Cochiti Pueblo, and Jamerson Ray Tafoya, a member of Kewa Pueblo (Santo Domingo), assume critical roles within the department. Frederick will serve alongside Secretary Designate Mountain and Deputy Secretary Josett Monette, dedicating support to the tribal communities within New Mexico.
Frederick brings a wealth of experience and dedication to her role with six years of combined service as a Field Representative for U.S. Sen. Martin Heinrich and now retired U.S. Sen. Jeff Bingaman, subsequent work as the Policy Coordinator for the All Pueblo Council of Governors, and an eight-year tenure with the Federal Bureau of Investigations in roles such as an Investigative Specialist and Tactical Specialist, she is well-prepared to address critical issues related to public lands, public safety and funding opportunities for the state’s Native communities.
Tafoya assumes the role of Policy and Government Relations Director. With more than 20 years of experience in various fields within Indian Country, Tafoya brings a unique perspective as a Commercial Banker and Risk Management professional. His educational background includes degrees in Engineering and Business Management.
Secretary Designate Mountain expresses his enthusiasm for these appointments, noting that “Janelle Frederick and Jamerson Ray Tafoya bring a remarkable combination of experience, expertise, and dedication to their new roles. Their contributions will be invaluable as the Indian Affairs Department continues to strengthen our commitment to New Mexico’s tribal communities.”
These appointments mark a significant step forward in the department’s ongoing mission to enhance collaboration, support tribal communities, and foster a stronger government-to-government relationship between the State of New Mexico and the Nations, Pueblos and Tribes within New Mexico.