MESA, Ariz. – The Washoe Tribe of Nevada and California announced that Vice Chairman of the Washoe Tribal Council Patrick Burtt has been selected as a member of the National Center for American Indian Enterprise Development (NCAIED) 2025 class of Native American 40 Under 40 Award honorees. Vice Chairman Burtt was nominated by his peers for this prestigious recognition.

The Native American 40 Under 40 Award honors individuals who demonstrate leadership, initiative, and dedication, making significant contributions to their professions and communities. Vice Chairman Burtt exemplifies these qualities through his diverse accomplishments and commitment to serving the Washoe Tribe and the broader Native American community.

“We are incredibly proud of Vice Chairman Burtt for this well-deserved recognition,” said Elsa James, Elder and President of the Dresslerville Women’s Circle. “His leadership and dedication are invaluable to our Tribe, and he serves as an inspiration to our youth and future generations.”

“Each of these remarkable individuals has shown a commitment to going beyond boundaries to build a bright future for Indian Country,” said the President and CEO of NCAIED. “They join more than 600 past honorees in what has been an increasingly tight-knit and collaborative group. I’m excited to celebrate the 2025 class’s achievements at RES 2025 and follow their success in the years ahead.”  

Vice Chairman Burtt’s leadership and contributions include:

• Legislative Leadership and Vision: Co-introduced SB 391 (Shutdown the Siren) during the 82nd Nevada State Legislative Session, demonstrating his commitment to advocating for tribal interests.
• Community Impact: Co-founded the Dresslerville Red Bear Youth Council, a UNITY chapter, empowering young people and fostering their development.
• Cultural Preservation: Co-authored multiple property designations for Martis Valley, ensuring the protection of culturally significant sites.
• Indigenous Entrepreneurship: Founded and serves as President of Red Writers: Indigenous Anthropological Research Group, promoting research and understanding of Indigenous cultures.

In addition to these achievements, Burtt serves as the Inaugural Chairman of the Great Basin Tribal Alliance, Vice Chairman of the Inter-Tribal Council of Nevada, and Co-President of the Native Graduate Student Alliance at the University of Nevada, Reno, further demonstrating his commitment to leadership and service. Recently chosen American Indian Policy Institute at the Arizona State University (ASU). Currently, Burtt is pursuing a Ph.D., in Anthropology from the University of Nevada, holds Master of Indian Studies from UCLA and a Master of Native American Studies from ASU. Burtt is also a strong advocate for education and has received several notable scholarships.

The NCAIED’s Native American 40 Under 40 Award recognizes emerging leaders who are shaping the future of Indian Country. Vice Chairman Burtt’s selection underscores his exceptional contributions and his potential to continue making a positive impact.