Native American Contractors Association Executive Leaves to Work for Cherokee Nation

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Jim Gray - Osage

Native Brief: WASHINGTON - The Native American Contractors Association, (NACA) announced the resignation of Executive Director, Jim Gray, who accepted the position of Director of Communications/Government Relations to support the newly elected Chief of the Cherokee Nation, Bill Baker.

"The work of NACA to the economic self-determination of tribal nations and to the American economy is vitally important," said Gray. "Government contracting is an important sector, and I will continue to support the rights of Native companies to participate. I appreciate the hard work of NACA staff and members that have made this organization one of most influential Native organizations in Washington."

"We absolutely support Jim in the important work with Chief Baker at the Cherokee Nation," said NACA Board Chairman Lance Morgan. "We thank him for his work and advocacy of Native 8(a) firms before and during his time with NACA, and we wish him the best in his new position."

The Native American Contractors Association has appointed Sarah Lukin as the Interim Executive Director. Ms. Lukin, the former NACA Executive Director, will serve until a permanent Executive Director joins the association. Ms. Lukin holds a Bachelor's and Master's degree from the University of Alaska. She has extensive experience in the Native 8(a) program and government contracting. Lukin will maintain her current position as the Sr. Vice President of Corporate Affairs at Afognak Native Corporation/Alutiiq, LLC.

posted November 1, 2011 6:00 am edt