vERNELLE CHASE, executive director

Vernelle Chase is the Executive Director of Native Women Lead, where she is dedicated to advancing Indigenous women’s leadership, entrepreneurship, and economic empowerment.

A member of the Gros-Ventre Tribe and of Assiniboine and Mandan descent from the Fort Belknap Indian Reservation in Montana, Vernelle brings more than 25 years of experience in the construction industry, specializing in project management, business development, and tribal relations. She currently serves as Director of Tribal Relations and Business Development at FlintCo, where she has spent over two decades building strong partnerships and supporting economic development initiatives across Indian Country.

Vernelle is widely recognized for her ability to bridge industry and community, advocating for Native-owned businesses and helping develop projects that create meaningful, lasting impact. In addition to her leadership with Native Women Lead, she serves as Board Chair of the American Indian Chamber of Commerce of New Mexico and sits on the Fort Belknap Investment Board and the Laguna Development Corporation Board.

She holds a Program Certificate Building and Construction Technology from the University of New Mexico–Gallup.

ervina Grace Castillo, Operations Manager

Ervina Grace Castillo is a Diné professional and the Operator of E. Grace & Associates, where she provides operational and strategic support to nonprofit organizations and for-profit companies. Her work spans operations management, marketing, project management, human resources, accounting, business research and development, procurement services, and proposal development.

With over a decade of experience in public involvement and engagement, Ervina brings a strong foundation in building relationships, facilitating collaboration, and supporting organizational growth. She has extensive experience in MATOC contracting services, proposal and grant writing, and contract and grant management, along with in-depth knowledge of federal, state, local, and tribal procurement policies and procedures.

Ervina holds an undergraduate degree in Organizational Management and Entrepreneurial Studies and a graduate degree in Human Resources from the University of New Mexico. She has also completed the Greater Albuquerque Chamber of Commerce’s Leadership Albuquerque program and the U.S. Small Business Administration’s Emerging Leaders program.

Her leadership and community involvement include serving as Secretary for the Diné Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors and Treasurer for Saad Kidilyé, a Diné Language Nest in Albuquerque. She also played a key role in establishing the University of New Mexico Native American Alumni Chapter and was elected its inaugural President in 2018.

Ervina’s leadership is grounded in her commitment to ensuring Native women’s voices are heard and represented. She is passionate about advancing change that supports not only current communities, but future generations. Her strengths include building meaningful relationships, emotional intelligence, resiliency, positivity, and determination.

Chadé Claiborne, accountant

Chadé Claiborne is a Diné professional with Creole heritage and serves as the Accountant at Native Women Lead. She brings a strong foundation in accounting, compliance, and financial operations across government and nonprofit sectors, with experience in payroll, accounts payable and receivable, budget monitoring, and audit preparation.

Chadé has worked in roles supporting financial oversight and reporting, including positions with the Pueblo of Isleta, the State Auditor’s Office, and the Legislative Finance Committee. Her work has focused on strengthening reconciliation processes, improving reporting accuracy, and ensuring compliance with tribal, state, and federal requirements. She is committed to precision, accountability, and integrity in financial management.

She holds an MBA and has developed a reputation for analytical rigor, attention to detail, and sound financial judgment. Chadé approaches her work with a strong sense of responsibility and a commitment to supporting organizations that serve and uplift communities.

Chadé’s leadership is rooted in strength, culture, and responsibility. She believes Native women’s leadership reflects the matriarchal foundations of many tribal nations—guiding, protecting, and making decisions with future generations in mind. She is inspired by leaders who create space for others to grow and is passionate about contributing to work that uplifts Native women, strengthens communities, and supports the development of future generations. Her personal power is grounded in persistence, grace, and the courage to continue forward with intention and purpose.