Native Excellence
The Native Excellence Gala brings together Tribal Nation heads of state, community partners and members, educators, and students to celebrate changemakers and leaders who are making a positive impact on behalf of the Indigenous community. With prestigious awards bestowed upon nominated individuals, the evening includes a VIP reception, dinner and entertainment to honor and celebrate award recipients.
Natural History Museum of Utah
301 Wakara Way
Salt Lake City, UT 84108
VIP Reception: 5:30 – 6:30 p.m.
Dinner, Entertainment & Award Ceremony: 6:30 – 9 p.m.
Native Excellence Gala Keynote
Adrienne Keene
Native Scholar, Writer, and Cultural Commentator
Dr. Adrienne Keene, a citizen of the Cherokee Nation, is a distinguished scholar, writer, and cultural commentator. She is passionate about reframing perceptions of contemporary Native cultures and communities. She is the author of Notable Native People: 50 Indigenous Leaders, Dreamers, and Changemakers from Past and Present and co-creator of the popular podcast All My Relations with Matika Wilbur (Swinomish and Tulalip), which explores what it means to be Native in the 21st century.
2025 Native Excellence Awardees
It is with great pleasure that we recognize and honor the following individuals as a recipients of the 2025 Native Excellence Awards.
Larry Echo Hawk
Lifetime Achievement
Jeanie Groves
Knowledge Keeper
Dominique Pablito
Changemaker
Dr. Harold Chuck Foster
Community Partner Award
Wallita Ranger
Native Excellence in Health Equity
Angela Dixey Romero
Native Excellence Alumni Award
Bradley Parry
Native Excellence in the Community
Dena Ned
Native Excellence at the U
Marilyn Cuch
Native Excellence in Higher Education
Rhonda "Honey" DuVall
Native Excellence in PK-12 Education