Heyhey, Nya:wëh sgë:nö’ my fellow Senecas!
Spring is just a few days away, I hope this message finds you healthy and ready for the new season.
This week, I’d like to introduce another member of the President’s Office staff, Sherry Thompson. An Executive Administrative Assistant, Sherry works closely with our Executive Secretary and brings a wealth of experience to our team.
A lifelong resident of Cattaraugus territory and belonging to the Deer Clan, Sherry is a dedicated wife, mother of three, and grandmother of three. She is the proud daughter of Sharon Warrior.
Sherry (pictured left) has an impressive background, having held positions in the Clerk’s office, Treasurer’s office, President’s office, and Mortgage office. She has been a notary since 2013, demonstrating her commitment to serving our community.
Her duties are diverse and essential, including managing calendars, processing the considerable paperwork that flows through our office, addressing department and community inquiries, assisting with meeting preparations and much more. Sherry embodies organization, friendliness, kindness, and patience. I feel privileged to have her as part of my team.
The last several weeks have been pivotal for us, especially regarding foreign relations. A major focus of our administration has been building relationships with outside governments and agencies. I, along with several members of our Council and the Marshals departments, have been meeting with local law enforcement agencies to discuss better coordination in combating the pervasive illicit drug trade in our communities.
Recently, the Seneca Nation hosted our first-ever Western New York (WNY) Delegation Summit at our Seneca Niagara Events Center . We invited leadership from local, county, state and federal levels to make introductions and discuss shared issues. Our council members addressed the challenges facing our communities, highlighting both our struggles and successes.
I invited Governor Hochul to participate in the WNY Delegation Summit, but she was unable to attend. Instead, her office was represented by her designees, including Dr. Elizabeth Rule- her Deputy Secretary for First Nations. Dr. Rule was a gracious host during our visit to Albany for the State of the State address, and her supportive speech at our event was much appreciated. Most importantly, she actively listened to our concerns. We are hopeful that these engagements will foster meaningful dialogue and build a better relationship between the Seneca Nation and the Executive Chamber in Albany. Several other local leaders shared their support of our Nation.
I want to extend my gratitude to my office team for their hard work in making our WNY Delegation Summit a success.
I also had the opportunity testify in Washington, DC at the House Appropriations Committee. Tribal leadership from across the nation spoke on issues and policy priorities for Fiscal Year 2026. Witnesses and lawmakers conveyed a focus on healthcare, law enforcement, and education. I also concentrated on treaties, reminding Washington DC of their commitments to Nations such as ours.
In just a few days, we will head to Albany to host a one-day event, “Seneca Impact Day”. We invite all community members who can make the trip to join us, reminding Albany’s leadership that we are present, resilient and will be here for generations to come. Additionally, we have extended invitations to all Albany leadership for the event, taking place on March 18th, to meet with us and learn more about our needs, contributions, history and goals.
For more information and weekly updates, please follow Seneca Media & Communications on social media or feel free to call my office.
Until next time!
~JC
