Southwestern Association for Indian Arts announces new board chair

The Southwestern Association for Indian Arts (SWAIA) has announced its 2026 Executive Committee, naming Leslie Wheelock as the new Chair of its Board of Directors as the organization prepares for its 104th annual Santa Fe Indian Market.

Wheelock, a member of the Oneida Nation of Wisconsin, becomes Board Chair following the completion of Dawn Houle’s term. Houle, who served as Executive Committee Chair, and Treasurer Tom Teagarden have both concluded their leadership terms and will continue supporting SWAIA’s growth in ongoing roles.

SWAIA leadership expressed gratitude to Houle and Teagarden for their service, crediting their commitment and stewardship with helping guide the organization’s strategic development and continued prominence in Native arts advocacy.

Wheelock brings extensive legal and governance experience to the role. She is the first Native American trustee of Cornell University and is the founder of Wheelock Consulting, PLLC, where she specializes in tribal legal, business, and management consulting. She also serves on the board of The Phillips Collection in Washington, D.C., and has been a member of SWAIA’s board of directors since 2024.

Joining Wheelock on SWAIA’s 2026 Executive Committee are:

• Vice Chair JoAnn Chase (Mandan, Hidatsa and Arikara Nation)
• Secretary Randy Chitto (Mississippi Band of Choctaw Indians)
• Treasurer Nicole Johnnie (Navajo Nation)

The announcement comes as SWAIA launches its 2026 theme, “Empowered Resilience: Centuries in the Making,” underscoring its year-round mission to champion Native North American artists and cultural traditions.

SWAIA will host the 104th annual Santa Fe Indian Market on Saturday, August 15, and Sunday, August 16, 2026, in downtown Santa Fe. Widely regarded as the largest and most prestigious Native art market in the world, the event draws thousands of collectors, artists, and visitors each year.

Founded in 1922, SWAIA is a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting Native North American art and culture through events including the Santa Fe Indian Market™, Native Fashion Week, and Winter Indian Market. The organization creates economic and cultural opportunities for Native artists while fostering excellence and innovation across traditional and contemporary art forms.

For more information or to plan a visit, go to swaia.org.