Managing directors hired to lead tribal government

By Niki Cleary, Tulalip News 

Tribal government is going through an organizational restructure and the process began by hiring four Managing Directors.  Each of the four Managing Directors will be responsible for a different aspect of tribal government. Their domains are Business Operations, Community Enrichment, Health Services and Regulatory Affairs. 

Wendy Fryberg.

Wendy Fryberg, Managing Director of Regulatory Affairs

My career started at our Casino and have over 25 years of leadership experience. Along with experience, I have an Associate’s Degree from NWIC. My work experience includes; Regulatory Compliance, Gaming, Strategic Planning and Executive Director all of which will contribute to my success in this position. Additional experiences include Leadership Snohomish County and MSD Board Member. Living and working in this community, I have knowledge of the needs and understand the concerns. My long term career goal has always been to work in leadership at out Tribal Government Office, I am grateful to start this new opportunity.  

Michelle Gettsy, Managing Director of Business Operations

Michelle Gettsy.

Fresh out of college I worked for Tulalip as a Land Use Planner, compliance officer, and GIS tech all rolled into one. Since then, I have been with the Muckleshoot Tribe in various capacities. I began there as an Executive Assistant to the Tribal Council. From there I moved to the Public Works Department as an Account Manager and in 2015 I earned a position at the Muckleshoot Tribal School 

as the Business Manager. I earned my Bachelor’s degree in 2006 from the University of Washington and in 2016 I earned my Master’s degree in Jurisprudence in Indian Law from the University of Tulsa, College of Law. I am so thankful for the opportunity to be able to bring my knowledge and experience back to my Tribe. 

Norma Razote.

Norma Razote, Managing Director of Health Services

I began my career with The Tulalip Tribes in 1992 in which I worked for the Tulalip Gaming Organization as a Table Games Dealer.  I started working for the Tulalip Tribes Government in 2001 at the Housing Authority and continued to work in various departments which include the Housing, Health Clinic, Finance, General Manager, and Quality Assurance Department.  I have a Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration with an emphasis in Accounting.  I am appreciative for the opportunity to serve my tribe and looking forward to working with a great managing director team. 

Shawneen Zackuse Managing Director of Community Enrichment

Shawneen Zackuse.

I began my working career for the Tulalip Gaming Organization in 1994 in Food & Beverage and Finance Departments then started my journey on the government organization in 2004 in TTHAP’s, Housing, and Higher Education Departments. I have an Associate in Arts, Associate in Science in Criminal Justice, Bachelor in General Studies, Bachelor in Criminal Justice, Bachelor in Business Administration, Master in Business Administration in Project Management, and currently working on my Doctorate in Criminal Justice and Business Administration. I am thankful for the opportunity to use my skills and serve my tribe.

Together we create a healthy and culturally vibrant community

As we have gathered as a team, we believe tribal members want better communication, inclusion and understanding. Our tribal members are our 

customers, we will strive to accomplish the mission and values of our Tribe, to better serve ourmembers and provide services at a higher level. 

Together we will enhance wrap around services to our people and work as a team to ensure collaboration throughout the governmental organization.