About Executive Director Diana Yazzie Devine

VALLEY LEADERSHIP ANNOUNCES MAN & WOMAN OF THE YEAR HONOREES

PHOENIX (April 2004) — Two distinguished individuals who have spent countless hours and energy inspiring youth to become leaders, building communities across cultural divides, and inspiring others by their selfless examples, have been selected as Valley Leadership’s 2003 Man and Woman of the Year: Ivan Makil, former President of the Salt River Pima-Maricopa Indian Community, and Diana (Dede) Yazzie-Devine, President/CEO of Native American Connections.

“President Makil and Diana Yazzie-Devine have traveled very different paths to positions of leadership, each using their unique experiences and passions to revolutionize our thinking in Arizona,” said Scott Jacobson, executive director of Valley Leadership. “Former President Ivan Makil has clearly played a major role in altering our consciousness and our approach to strategic planning and thinking in this country and continues to foster a greater understanding of how the American Indian communities of this Nation play an integral role in the future of our economies and our way of life.

“Devine is described as ‘the voice of reason and compassion,’ by those who admire her unceasing commitment to positively altering the quality of life for the communities she serves through her work at Native American Connections and through her own personal commitment to the community at large. She continually creates trust, hope and a wellspring of optimism for the individuals and families seeking a complete and fulfilled life. Her work at Native American Connections is a partnership with the communities of Arizona to heal and to advance our populations.”

President Makil and Diana Yazzie Devine join a prestigious list of past Man & Woman of the Year award recipients spanning the past 55 years.

The two were honored on April 21 at a luncheon at the Arizona Biltmore Pavilion. Proceeds from the luncheon will benefit Valley Leadership programs. The Man and Woman of the Year Awards are sponsored by APS and The Arizona Republic.

Founded in 1979, Valley Leadership’s mission is to enhance the abilities of individuals to serve and strengthen our communities. For more information visit the Valley Leadership Institute website.