Clara Pratte Approved by Navajo Nation Council as Director of Navajo Nation DC Office

Native News Network Staff in Native Briefs. Discussion »

Clara Pratte, Director
Navajo Nation Washington Office

WINDOW ROCK, ARIZONA - Clara Pratte, the director of the Navajo Nation Washington Office was slated to be on a panel at the US Census Bureau's release of 2010 American Indian and Alaska Native data last Wednesday.

However, it was announced she was called back to Window Rock. Now we know why.

She was back in Window Rock for her formal confirmation by the Navajo Nation Council. Pratte, who was appointed to direct the Navajo Nation Washington Office in March 2011 by Navajo President Ben Shelly, gained the approval of the council in a 23 - 0 vote.

“I'm glad the Council approved Clara. She is doing an outstanding job in Washington representing the Nation,”

the President said after her confirmation.

"President Shelly has been very supportive and through his vision and leadership, the NNWO will continue to be a strong voice and advocate for the Navajo people in DC,"

Pratte said.

Pratte is from Lupton, Ariz. and is Kinyaa' aanii and born for Bilagaana. Before her appointment, Pratte worked in President Barack Obama's Administration leading the Office of the Native American at the US Small Business Administration.

Pratte holds a Bachelor's of Science in business from the University of Arizona, a Master's of Science in public policy from Carnegie Mellon University along with certifications in project management and information technology.

Before the confirmation vote, she listed some accomplishments she achieved, which included filling all the vacant positions in the Navajo Nation Washington Office.

“I am fortunate to have such an amazing team and I have full faith and confidence in their skills to get the job done,”

Pratte said.

Council Delegate Lorenzo Curley sponsored the legislation to confirm Pratte.

posted January 30, 2012 1:50 pm est