Rachel Saimons, Co-President
rsaimons@uw.edu, (425) 503-9187

I was an active member of NALSA last year as a 1L Representative, which I enjoyed immensely. I was fortunate to spend this summer interning in Arizona for DNA People's Legal Services, and I am truly excited to participate in the Tulalip Tribal Defense Clinic this year. I look forward to all of the events we have planned for NALSA in the coming months, and hope to better connect with the Indian/Tribal law community in the Seattle area and beyond.

Ethan Jones, Vice President
eajones@uw.edu, (206) 707-6973

I studied business and Native American history as an undergraduate at the University of Washington. My work with the Duwamish Tribe in their struggle for federal recognition, and my experience as a small business owner convinced me to pursue a career as an attorney. I was a 1L NALSA representative, and worked as a summer associate for Galanda Broadman PLLC dealing with Indian law and business law issues. This year I will be participating in the Rural Alaska Tax Assistance Program.

Michelle Taft, Treasurer
mtaft@uw.edu, (253) 223-9106

I think that Indian law is extremely important in Washington because we have such a strong Native presence in our state. My interest in Indian law stems from the knowledge that regardless of whether I end up working directly for a tribe or native clients, a foundation in Indian law will allow me to have a better understanding of the tribal legal systems in Washington. I hope that by taking an active role in NALSA I can continue to learn about social and legal issues that affect tribes in Washington and what I can do personally and professional to support tribes as they tackle those issues.

Andy Murphy, Secretary
agm27@uw.edu, (801) 696-5836

I joined NALSA to get a better appreciation of a fascinating area of law that directly impacts many communities. Along with co-President, Brie Coyle, I reached the finals of the NALSA National Moot Court Competition in 2011. In preparing for that competition, I realized the breadth and depth of Federal Indian Law and haven’t been able to leave it alone since then. I look forward to continuing my education and exposure to Indian Law and tribal communities through the many events and projects NALSA plans to complete this year.

Jody Olny, Position
Member of Muscogee Creek Nation, descendant of the Karok and Nez Perce Tribes and the Yakama Nation
jmo@uw.edu, (206) 375-4333

My interest in Indian law and involvement in NALSA stem from my Native culture, connection to my family and desire to live and work within the Native community.  My focus this year will be increasing visibility and awareness of what is going on at the UW School of Law within the greater UW Native community, the Urban Indian community and tribes throughout Washington State.  I will also be working to reach out, inform and encourage Native students to pursue an education in law.

Felecia Shue, Outreach Director
Puyallup/Makah
shuef@uw.edu, (206) 327-4498

My interest in Indian law begins with my having grown up with pride in being Native American. With relatives involved in tribal government as well as in the tribal justice systems I became aware that tribal people as individuals often live much more difficult lives than they should have to because native peoples are often unfairly exploited.  From this, I believe that would not occur so easily if more people who understand our values have legal educations and can help design systems that allow us to thrive with our unique potential that includes tradition, creativity and innovation. 

My commitment has always been to help others to be able to have basic needs and to learn skills so they can become more independent and help others as well. In Indian law, there are so very many different ways to do that, from tribal court systems, to tribal businesses, and on and on as the possibilities are endless. I want to make as much of a difference in my lifetime as I can by making the best use of the law to enhance how we can help each other.