Arizona American Indian Excellence in Leadership Awards

PHOENIX INDIAN CENTER

Arizona American Indian Excellence in Leadership Awards 2026

We are delighted to announce the recipients of the 43rd Annual Arizona American Indian Excellence in Leadership Awards! This annual celebration honors the outstanding achievements, leadership, and contributions of American Indian individuals who inspire positive change and make a lasting impact in their communities. Join us in congratulating this year’s honorees as we celebrate their dedication, accomplishments, and commitment to uplifting Native communities across Arizona.

2026 AWARD RECIPENTS

Sherry Cordova – Phyllis J. Bigpond Lifetime Achievement

Thomas Cody – Kent C. Ware Lifetime Achievement

Melvin Deer – Changemaker Award

Cora Tso – Changemaker Award

Steven Garcia – Volunteer of the Year

January Contreras – Friend of the Community

Cherish Beauty – Business of the Year

Nakota Hunts-In-Winter – College Student of the Year

Ava Peterson – High School Student of the Year

Join us for an evening celebrating the outstanding achievements, leadership, and contributions of American Indian leaders making a lasting impact in our communities. We look forward to celebrating with you!

Date: Thursday, November 12, 2026
Time: 5:00pm – Registration

Location: Heard Museum
Address: 2301 Central Ave, Phoenix, AZ 85004
Tickets: Purchase your tickets through the link below.

Click here to purchase tickets

About the Awards

Celebrating Native Leadership

For more than 42 years, the Phoenix Indian Center has proudly organized and hosted its annual awards process, honoring individuals who demonstrate exceptional leadership, service, and commitment to the American Indian community in Arizona.

Formerly known as the Native American Recognition Days (NARD) Awards, this longstanding tradition celebrates the legacy of Native leadership and recognizes outstanding individuals, students, businesses, volunteers, and community champions.

Award Categories:

Kent C. Ware Lifetime Achievement Award
Phyllis J. Bigpond Lifetime Achievement Award
Changemaker Award
Business of the Year
Friend of the Community
Volunteer of the Year
College Student of the Year
High School Student of the Year

Click here to view a list of past awardees.

Who Can Nominate an Individual or Business?

Nominations are open to the general public. Co-workers, friends, family, businesses, and organizations may nominate an individual. We encourage you to notify the individual that you are submitting their name, complete the nomination form fully, and submit with supporting documents such as a resume and awards. Once we receive the nomination information, the Phoenix Indian Center will contact the nominee to congratulate them and obtain additional required information if necessary.

What Is the Criteria for a Nominee?

Adult Award Criteria

Demonstrated excellence of leadership in the community or business
Demonstrated creativity and initiative in their profession with regards to representing the American Indian community
Provided valuable length of service to the community by devoting time and energy to improve the quality of life for American Indians
Exhibits commitment to service to the community by devoting time and energy to areas outside of their normal business to the American Indian community
Affects positive change in the profession, workplace, school and community
Is respected and seen as a leader amongst peers

College and High School Criteria

Have shown leadership in self or through school clubs, activities and demonstrated excellence in academics, creativity and initiative
Demonstrates strong leadership that is both culturally and non-culturally-based
Is perceived as a leader amongst peers, educators and community.
Maintain a GPA of 3.0 or above