Shayna Gutierrez is a highly accomplished professional with over 13 years of expertise in tribal fundraising, community engagement, and strategic program development. Her work has been instrumental in empowering Native communities by fostering innovative partnerships and securing vital resources for mission-critical initiatives.

As the Director of Advancement at IllumiNative, Shayna led groundbreaking fundraising campaigns, securing significant tribal and corporate sponsorships, and managing high-impact events to amplify Native voices. Her ability to align stakeholders and drive collaborative efforts directly contributed to the expansion of organizational reach and influence.

During her tenure at the American Indian Science and Engineering Society (AISES), Shayna spearheaded tribal and business development programs, creating transformative educational opportunities for Indigenous youth in STEM. She established the AISES Tribal Nations Advisory Council, bridged traditional knowledge with modern practices, and collaborated with corporate sponsors to bring resources to tribal communities. Shayna’s leadership in managing national conferences and other events further solidified AISES’s role as a vital resource for Native students and professionals.

At the Native American Rights Fund (NARF), Shayna coordinated tribal outreach and donor relations, significantly enhancing fundraising efficiency and supporting advocacy for Indigenous rights. Her meticulous approach to grant writing, event logistics, and stakeholder engagement strengthened the organization’s ability to achieve its goals.

Shayna’s deep understanding of Indigenous cultures and her forward-thinking approach to tribal engagement make her an invaluable leader at Giizhik Consulting. She excels at designing innovative fundraising strategies, presenting to tribal councils, and building alliances that drive lasting impact.

Through her work, Shayna has demonstrated a steadfast commitment to elevating Native communities by merging traditional values with contemporary solutions. Her leadership continues to attract new opportunities for collaboration and growth within Indian Country, reflecting Giizhik Consulting's mission to empower tribal sovereignty and sustainable development.

As Director of Tribal Engagement at Giizhik Consulting, Shayna leads efforts to build and strengthen connections between organizations and tribal communities. Her expertise in grant management, stakeholder engagement, and program development ensures that Giizhik Consulting continues to deliver measurable results for tribes, Native-owned businesses, and clients across sectors.