ABOUT US

Red Feather partners with Indigenous communities to develop and implement lasting and impactful housing solutions.

​We are currently serving the Hopi Tribe and Navajo Nation.

A world where healthy and safe housing is available to all and we are inspired to work collectively to create self-sustaining communities honoring indigenous values.

OUR VALUES

Meet Our Team

BOARD OF DIRECTORS

The Red Feather Development Group Board of Directors provides the direction and oversight needed to ensure the continued growth and success of the Red Feather mission while maintaining the fiduciary and governance oversight to protect the interest of the organization's donors. Each board member volunteers their time and talent to Red Feather and participates on a sub-committee.  

Mary Descheeny-Reyna, MSW 
Board President

​Mary Descheeny-Reyna, MSW, TMP, THRP II is an enrolled member of the Navajo Nation, where she was born and raised. Her professional path is shaped by a strong foundation in both Human Resources- Employee Relations and Social Work, a combination that brings depth to her understanding and approach to workplace dynamics. Mary approaches workplace challenges with insight, empathy, and precision. She sees each engagement as an opportunity not only to assess, but to coach those she works with, fostering growth through respect and culturally responsive support.
Mary holds a Master’s degree in Social Work, and is a Tribal Human Resources Professional II (THRP II) and a Tribal Management Professional (TMP). She is deeply inspired by the vision of fair and healthy Indigenous workplaces. Therefore, she empowers Indigenous organizations in creating respectful, responsive and resilient environments where all voices are honored.
Mary has led numerous workplace investigations & assessments, conflict resolution processes, employment hearings, HR training and policy reviews.  She credits her tireless work ethic, meticulous nature, and dedication to high-quality work to the values instilled in her by her reservation upbringing and community. Mary is always striving to build spaces where accountability, balance, and harmony are not only practiced—but lived.

Jamie Navenma
​Board Vice President

Jamie, Executive Director, Laguna Housing Development and Management Enterprise, was hired by LHDME in February 2022.  He has worked in and with tribal communities throughout the United States.  Mr. Navenma has worked for the Yavapai-Apache Nation (YAN) and the Hopi Tribe in their respective energy programs serving as the Economic & Energy Program Coordinator for YAN for two (2) years and as a Project Manager for the Hopi Sustainable Energy Program for three and a half (3.5) years. Mr. Navenma also has experience and knowledge in tribal housing that started in 1993 as a Homeownership Counselor and he has worked in various positions in tribal housing and was the Executive Director for the Hopi Tribal Housing Authority for 2 years, the Housing Director for Hualapai Housing Department for 4 years and the Executive Director for Northern Circle Indian Housing Authority for 1.5 years. He currently serves as the President of the Southwest Tribal Housing Alliance - AZ, NM and W. TX (SWTHA) and represents Region VIII (AZ, NM and W. TX) on the National American Indian Housing Council (NAIHC).

Rich Bowen
​Board Treasurer

Richard ‘Rich’ Bowen, Senior Vice President at Genterra Enterprises, leads real estate development projects in healthcare, research, commercial, and university sectors. Previously, he spent 21 years at Northern Arizona University as a vice president serving the Office of President and the development of the Phoenix Biomedical Core. He has co-founded several startup business incubators and held senior roles in real estate development and hospitality sector. Bowen is also actively involved in economic and community development, serving as Chair of the Northern Arizona Leadership Alliance. Rich grew up in Fort Defiance on the Navajo Reservation.

Kathleen Satterfield
​Board Member

Kathleen has a BA in Business Administration with an emphasis in finance
Currently retired & living in Carson City, NV to help care for my father.
She worked as a Corporate Controller and owned a Wild Birds Unlimited Store (Selling backyard bird feeding supplies and gifts).
Kathleen's experience includes:
20 yrs. of volunteer experience coordinating projects for environmental non-profits & animal welfare.
President of San Diego Audubon.
5 years coordinating monthly thistle removal along the Rio de Flag for Northern AZ Audubon & the Forest Service.
Helped create the pro-forma financials for High Country Humane as part of their start-up and bids for City & County contracts.
Founding member of the Friends of the Rio de Flag.
Founding member of the Friends of the Willow Bend Gardens.

Eunice Begay
​Board Member

Kenneth Myers
​Board Member

Shawn Simpson
​Board Secretary

​Shawn was born and raised in Arizona. He started volunteering with Red Feather in 2015 on the renovation of Navajo Code Talker Dan Akee's house and has helped out on builds in Northern Arizona and Montana. He received his Bachelor's degree in Philosophy from Arizona State University and his PhD from the Graduate Center of the City University of New York. In a past life, he worked as a wilderness ranger for the US Forest Service and the National Park Service. Currently, he is a lecturer in philosophy at the University of Pittsburgh. Shawn continues to work with Red Feather because he believes strongly in the organization's mission and leadership and hopes to do what he can to give back to the beautiful place he grew up.

Stanford Lake
​Board Member

​Stanford Lake, hailing from Kayenta/Black Mesa on the Navajo Nation, is an accomplished professional with a robust background in engineering and project management. His academic journey led him to attain an engineering degree from Northern Arizona University, and subsequently, he fulfilled his work experience prerequisites under the guidance of a seasoned professional engineer before securing his professional engineering license.
With over 24 years of dedicated service in the AEC (Architecture, Engineering, and Construction) domain, Stanford has excelled in various roles, primarily as a project manager/principal for several reputable firms in Arizona. His expertise spans project management, quality control inspections, project meetings, construction administration, and engineering design across a diverse array of projects. These endeavors have catered to Indigenous tribes, esteemed architects, professional engineers, general contractors, government officials, and private owners.
Notably, Stanford has also embraced the responsibilities of a Business Development Manager, demonstrating a keen understanding of market trends. In this capacity, he adeptly organized in-person and virtual business meetings, pioneered the establishment of a drone service department, identified strategic teaming opportunities, prepared and submitted project proposals, and oversaw the financial aspects of business operations.

Travis Draper
​Board Member

Born and raised In Arizona.
Have committed to living in Flagstaff AZ with family since 2008.
Career in medical administrative field led to creating company Draper Precision Billing and Coding in 2016.
Attended Northern Arizona University and Navajo Community College for post-secondary education.
Career focus on medical insurance and coding working with various Indian Health Service hospitals and clinics.
Employed with Native Americans for Community Action Flagstaff AZ from 2014 to present; served as Billing Manager for 9 years and reverted back as Medical Coder.
Invited by Navajo Area Service Unit to present at annual IHS Partnership Conference, Spokane WA 2019 on behalf of Urban Indian Organizations.
Invited by CMS Medicare/Medicaid to present on Medicare topic and Urban Clinic models 2021.
Volunteer when able with local food banks and food drives.
Committing time to support local self-help organizations that are self-funded in nature.
Believes in contributing efforts to help families and community members during times of stress and loss.
Served as Program Facilitator for 3 years bringing self-help talking circle to inmates at Coconino County Jail with another facilitator.
Loves to be involved with son’s athletic programs and volunteering at his school.

Kim Johnston
​Board Member

​Kim is an empowering and collaborative operations leader known for building high-performing teams and delivering strategic impact through a unique blend of business and technology expertise for over 30 years. At the Gates Foundation, she currently leads initiatives to drive operational efficiencies that amplify the foundation’s global impact. Kim has prior board experience with a global women’s organization dedicated to empowering women through leadership training, community, and scholarship opportunity. Now based in northern Arizona, she remains committed to mission-driven work and brings a deep passion for inclusive leadership to her board service.

Join our Board of Directors!

Click here for application and details

RED FEATHER STAFF

Joe Seidenberg
​Executive Director

Joe is responsible for hiring and managing the staff, managing the finances, and working with staff, board, and partners in developing and evaluating programs to ensure the overall sustainability of Red Feather.  He has a deep passion for work that helps improve the lives of others and contributes to a more compassionate world. In his spare time he is a devoted father and husband, who enjoys being in wild places, eating delicious foods, and pursuing athletic endeavors.

Natasha Begay, MBA
Program Manager

Natasha is Dine and her clans are Bįįh bitoodnii, Tábąąhá, Naasht'ézhi dine'é Tábąąhá  , and Honághááhnii. She grew up in Coppermine, Arizona, and now lives in Flagstaff, Arizona. She holds a Master of Business Administration (MBA) and Graduate Human Resource Management Certificate (G-HRM) from the University of Phoenix and a Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Psychology and Marketing from Fort Lewis College.
With over 14 years of experience working for non-profits and healthcare corporations in Phoenix, Santa Fe, and Tuba City, she has managed companies, conducted business analyses, and coordinated programs. Her recent professional experience includes managing and developing a radiation exposure program for the Western Navajo Nation under the Human Resource and Service Administration. Natasha developed a strong sense of dedication to the nonprofit sector while working for Native American Connections nearly 13 years ago. With these experiences, she gained a deeper understanding of how nonprofit organizations seek to improve the quality of life for indigenous communities. It is a pleasure for her to participate in various projects for assessing community needs and creating self-sustaining communities.
During her free time, she enjoys fishing, camping, hiking, and traveling with her family.​

Monica Polingyouma
Administrative Program Coordinator

My name is Monica Polingyouma. I am Hopi from the Village of Hotevilla, I currently live in Flagstaff, AZ, graduated from Coconino Community College, in Business Administration. I hope to one day continue my education. Outside of work, I enjoy traveling to visit my two daughters, fixing puzzles, and going to the gym to dance with the Zumba family. 

Tyler Puente (Diné), MA
​Program Admin Coordinator

​Yá'át'ééh and Loloma to all. Here at Red Feather Group, Tyler is delighted to be of support to assist the people from Diné and Hopi Communities who seek support forgoing the process.  His introduction into Indigenous Services began as an administrative intern for USDA Land Grant Programs in Santa Fe, NM, servicing Northern New Mexico’s Pueblo communities seeking to become agriculturally and economically self-sufficient. Thereafter, his involvement with Indigenous Services continued promoting the Healthy Hunger-Free Kids Act for Diné rural communities in conjunction with the Navajo Dept of Health. Eating tasty food and partaking in outdoor recreation is an interest of his apart from the actual work. He is a recent Graduate via Massey University’s Maori Arts Program in Visual Art - Indigenous Studies Program. Ahéhee, kwakwhay 

Michele "Micki" Honanie
Program Coordinator

Greetings! My name is Michele Honanie, I am a Hopi from the Village of Kykotsmovi. My clan is Sun and I am the Hopi Community Coordinator. I am an only child that was raised in a military family the first 12 years of my life. Living on different army bases throughout the U.S. and twice in Germany. Upon my return to the states I graduated from Winslow High School and later received my AA in Legal Administration.
My experience of 8 years working in the Housing Sector being a Case manager, Property manager and Low Income Housing Tax Credit Specialist for Native American Connections, has provided me the experience working with families in the housing industry. That along with my 15 plus years of working as the Hopi Tribe's Realty Specialist, I have gained a wealth of knowledge that will allow me to provide our clients with the best customer service by building the bridge between housing resources and my fellow Hopi’s.
My passion for my work comes from motivation and desire to give back to my community. I currently sit as an active Board Member for the Kykotsmovi Board of Directors. Love being with extended family during ceremonial events and helping when needed. I have two children who have blessed me with four (4) wonderful grandchildren who keep me busy with their sports. Im very spontaneous, love sunflowers and love to travel while listening to Fleetwood Mac, CCR and Santana. May good things come to you all!

Tavanne Sousa, MBA
Development Manager

As someone raised in a military family, I've had the privilege of traversing diverse landscapes and immersing myself in countless cultures—a facet of traveling that I cherish deeply. My journey took me to the Peace Corps in South America, where I collaborated with indigenous communities to address health disparities by engaging in community outreach programs and events. With an MBA from Northern Arizona University, I have dedicated my career to focus on the social determinants of health in underserved populations, a realm I am deeply passionate about. My focus is on promoting health equity and making a meaningful impact. Non-profits resonate with me on a personal level; they embody the values I hold dear and the principles I live by. Beyond my professional endeavors, I find solace and joy in the company of my daughter, who seems to grow too quickly for my liking. Together, we share a love for travel, painting, and cherished moments with family and friends.

Roy Lee Hosteen
​Program Coordinator 

Roy grew up working in his family’s home construction business through his teenage years.  After attending college he went on to have a 33 year career in the mining industry working across multiple disciplines including graphite draftsman, statistician, surveyor, computer analyst, site project representative, budget coordinator, and project manager.  Since retirement, Roy has taught himself lapidary and silversmith arts.  He is fluent in Navajo and English.    He has a passion for hearing stories of his elders and enjoying their laughter when humor is exchanged in Navajo.   

Georlinda Tsosie, BA
​Program Manager

Georlinda is Navajo and her clans are Mą'ii deeshgiizhinii, Tábąąhá,  Ta'neeszahnii, and T ł 'ízí lání. She is originally from Burnt Corn Valley, Arizona and currently lives in Flagstaff, Arizona with her daughter Mylianne. She graduated from Diné College with degrees in Office Administration and Business Administration. Her current goal is to complete a Master's Degree at Grand Canyon University. Georlinda is currently the Interim NHRN Manager, she oversees the Program administrative staff, NHRN healthy home resource management, educational program design and implementation, and community outreach initiatives.  Her work and experience revolve around making a change in people's lives within Native American communities. Every chance she gets, she loves to help and give back by volunteering to develop a healthy community. During her free time, she likes to listen to music, spend time with my family, and run and hike with her daughter.

Duane Tsinigine
​​Program Coordinator 

Duane is a member of the Navajo Nation from Tuba City, Arizona. Originally from Bodaway/The Gap, he graduated from Highland High School, Bakersfield, CA in 1983.  He attended Brigham Young University where he was active with the Cougar Marching Band and was a journalist with the Eagle's Eye student newspaper.  He then entered a career in the Navajo Legislature, working in Window Rock until 2017. From 2018-2020 he served as the KELC Director for the Kaibab Paiute Tribe. 
He loves outdoor beach volleyball, basketball, tennis & hiking. Current goals are to complete a Master's in Public Relations and travel the global south. 

Alex Torgler
​Program Coordinator

Alex came to Red Feather in 2023 after graduating from Northern Arizona University with a Bachelors of Science in Sustainability and Global Solutions and participating in the much beloved Grand Canyon Semester (GCS) with NAU Honors College. His love of the Southwest has only grown since moving to Flagstaff in 2018 from Evergreen, CO. Alex cherishes the work Red Feather pursues and is ambitious to provide more opportunities for all people across Arizona and New Mexico. Within Red Feather Alex helps strengthen the firewood and healthy heating programs, solutions for businesses programs and volunteer projects. In his free time, Alex likes to explore the beautiful and vast variety of adventures the Southwest has to offer with his dog, Astro Boy.

Malcolm Keetso
​Special Projects Assistant

​ 
Yá'át'ééh, Shí éí Malcolm Keetso yinishyé. Nakaii Dine’é (Mexican People Clan) nishłį́, Tsé Nahabiłnii (Sleeping Rock People) báshíshchíín. Cochiti Kiss’áaníí (Cochiti Pueblo People) dashicheii, adoo Naakaii (Mexican) dashinalí. Bilagáanasnééz déé’ naashá. Akot’éego Dine nishłį́. Hello, I am Malcolm Keetso from Counselor, New Mexico. I am Navajo, Cochiti Pueblo and Mexican. I am the Healthy Home Energy & Safety Improvements Construction Project Assistant for Red Feather Development Group. I am currently completing a Bachelor’s of Science in Environmental Science and Sustainability at Northern Arizona University. I ‘ve worked in various fields of construction from oil & gas, waterline, framing, masonry, fabrication, and most recently industrial bridge construction. I plan on using my degree and construction knowledge to help Indigenous people displaced by systemic inequities. In my free time, I love going on adventures with my better half, our two kids. A lively little boy, our sweet baby girl and our rambunctious dog. Whether we're exploring the outdoors, playing games, or just enjoying family time, I also enjoy restoring/hot-rodding/modifying older vehicles, Hunting, Fishing, woodworking, as well as any activity that gets me out in nature. 
​

Melvita Nez
​Program Coordinator

Ya’at’ééh, shik’éí dóó shidine’é.Shí éí Melvita Nez yinishyé. Lok’aa Dine’e (Reed People Clan) ei nishłí, Bííh Bitoodnii (Deer Spring Clan) ei bashishchíín, Hashk’áhádzohí (Yucca-Fruit-Strung-On-A-Line Clan) dashicheii, Tł’ízíłání (Manygoats Clans) ei dashinálí.To'nehe'liih (Tonalea, AZ) déé’ naashá. I currently serve as a Community Coordinator, where I work to support the health, wellbeing, and resilience of Indigenous communities. I earned my Bachelor of Science in Public Health from Northern Arizona University, where I developed a passion for health equity, community empowerment, and culturally responsive care. With my public health background, I plan to pursue a career in environmental health, focusing on how environmental factors such as land, housing, and water impact the health of Native communities. I am especially passionate about educating families on healthy living, including the importance of safe housing structures, clean environments, and preventive health practices. My goal is to equip families with knowledge that supports both physical health and cultural wellbeing.In the future, I intend to further my education by pursuing a master’s or doctorate degree in Environmental Health or Epidemiology, so I can strengthen my role as an advocate and public health leader.Outside of my professional work, I enjoy spending my free time outdoors, whether it’s hiking, running, or going home to be with my family. Being back home allows me to reconnect with the our horses, sheep, and cattle. I also enjoy staying competitively active by playing volleyball and basketball with friends and family.