By Micheal Rios, Tulalip News
Economic Alliance Snohomish County recently held its annual meeting and award ceremony within the always stylish Orca Ballroom, the Tulalip Resort’s largest banquet hall. Economic Alliance events are where locally elected politicians, business owners, and decision-makers gather to network and receive updates that impact the economic well-being and vitality of Snohomish County.
During the annual meeting, two inspirational Tulalips were propelled front and center on the podium. One was T.G.O. President Marci Fryberg when she presented the John M. Fluke Award, which recognizes individuals who demonstrate an entrepreneurial spirit and community leadership.
“On behalf of our tribal community, we welcome you to our homelands today as we partner with the Economic Alliance Snohomish County in acknowledgement of all the good work happening within our communities that we serve,” said Marci to the members of Economic Alliance and invited guests before presenting the award to Craig Skotdal of Skotdal Real Estate. His family and company have played a critical role in shaping the development of downtown Everett, including bringing much-need housing to the area.
The second Tulalip to grace the podium was none other than Mel Sheldon when he received the Elson S. Floyd Award. An award that recognizes a visionary leader who through partnership, tenacity, and a strong commitment to community has created lasting opportunities to improve quality of life and positively impact the regional economy.
Mel served on the Tulalip Tribes Board of Directors for two decades, before retiring to the serenity of his motorcycle and fishing boat. Along with his fellow Board members, Mel helped to lead economic development efforts at Tulalip, including the construction of the Tulalip Resort Casino – one of the largest employers in Snohomish County – and the first-ever federally chartered tribal city in the United States, Quil Ceda Village.
Under his and the Board’s leadership, the Tulalip has initiated major transportation and infrastructure projects and built a strong police department and tribal court. They also completed important environmental restoration projects and created strong partnerships with other community leaders and organizations.
“The Elson S. Floyd Award honors an individual whose work exemplifies his legacy – bold vision, tireless dedication, and a belief in the power of partnership to transform lives. This year’s recipient is Mel Sheldon,” said Dr. Paul Pitre, Chancellor for Washington State University’s Everett campus.
“A longtime leader of the Tulalip Tribes and a respected figure across Everett, Marysville and the broader Puget Sound region, Mel has been a unifying force, bringing together people across sectors, across cultures, and across communities,” described Dr. Pitre. “He leads with humility and purpose and his impact is felt in every corner of our great region.
“From supporting education programs and job creation to promoting tourism and economic vitality, Mel has worked to ensure that growth is sustainable and inclusive. Proof that lifting up community goes far beyond just good leadership, it’s about lasting legacy. He has opened doors and built bridges by strengthening relationships between tribal and non-tribal partners, and creating new pathways for progress throughout Snohomish County. Mel Sheldon reminds us that leadership is not only standing at the front, it’s about showing up again and again for your people, for your neighbors, and for your future.”
An active and engaged leader not just in Tulalip, but all of Snohomish County, Mel served in many capacities, including on the boards of Providence Hospital Foundation, Citizens Committee for Marysville Schools, and the Boys and Girls Club of Snohomish County. He also worked diligently on behalf of the larger Native American population when he served as alternate vice-president for the National Congress of American Indians (NCAI) northwest region. Last, but certainly not least, Mel also served as vice president in the Affiliated Tribes of Northwest Indians (ATNI), an association representing nearly 50 tribes.
After accepting the Elson S. Floyd award for his visionary leadership, Mel shared that what he’s most proud of is the development of the economic powerhouse that Tulalip has become. He also acknowledged that while much has been achieved, there is still more work to do.
“When I first got on Tribal Council twenty-four years ago, we had nothing but dirt, trees, and dreams. Now, we have the gaming properties and Quil Ceda Village, and all the businesses we’ve attracted there. It’s helped Snohomish County and the Tulalip Reservation work together, grow together, and become not just a destination, but a desirable place where people want to live. I stand here today humbled, so honored, and eager to see the future growth of the Reservation and our County.”