April 21: 5 Things You Need to Know This Week

We are deeply saddened by the passing of our colleague at NNAHARA, Tal D. Moore. Tal generously volunteered his time and expertise to NAFOA during a period of transition for our organization. We remain grateful for his thoughtful guidance, professionalism, and, most of all, his calm and steady presence. His lighthearted spirit and genuine kindness left a lasting impression on all of us. Our heartfelt condolences go out to his colleagues at NNAHARA, his family, and all who had the privilege of knowing and working with him. Tal’s contributions and spirit will be remembered with great respect and appreciation. (Photo of Tal at the 42nd Annual NAFOA Conference).

1. CONFERENCE: Comedian Gigi Modrich Returns to Emcee #NAFOA2025

NAFOA is excited to welcome back Gigi Modrich as the emcee for the 43rd Annual Conference in New Orleans!

Gigi Modrich (Jicarilla Apache) is an LA based comedian and comedy writer originally from New Mexico. Beginning her comedy career in Washington, DC, she has performed in festivals and comedy clubs across the country, including Sketchfest, the DC Improv, and the Comedy Store. In 2018, She was a part of the First Nations Comedy Experience, created for FNX. From 2022-2023, she was a contributor to The Onion. She’s sarcastically optimistic and tells jokes that are stimulating enough to provoke thought but won’t prompt a hate crime


2. SURVEY: Federal Reserve’s Community Development Financial Institutions (CDFI) Survey

The Federal Reserve’s Community Development Financial Institutions (CDFI) Survey aims to understand current challenges and opportunities for CDFIs nationwide. The information collected provides CDFIs, policymakers, researchers, funders, investors, and other community development stakeholders with timely information about the CDFI industry. CDFIs can also use the results to compare their organization to a larger national sample and to learn about other CDFIs’ innovative products and practices. The Federal Reserve Banks conduct this survey as part of our effort to understand economic conditions and to advance access to credit and economic opportunity.

Participation in this survey is voluntary. The survey is open to all types of CDFIs, including banks, credit unions, loan funds, and venture capital funds — regardless of certification.

This survey will close May 30, 2025, at 11:59 p.m. PST. Please direct any questions to the survey mailbox at cdfi.survey@rich.frb.org.

Source: Federal Reserve Bank of Richmond


3. WEBINAR: Ransomware: Are You on a Hacker’s Hit List?

Tuesday, April 22, 2025, at 1:00 p.m. Eastern Time

Discover why cybercriminals target businesses of all sizes and what you can do to protect your organization.

Join REDW cybersecurity experts Trisha Wilbrand and Jennifer Moreno as they demystify ransomware threats and provide actionable defense strategies. Attendees will learn:

  • Why tribal entities are increasingly targeted
  • Five essential prevention strategies, including multi-factor authentication
  • Critical internal controls for vulnerability reduction
  • Incident response essentials that can save millions

Don’t wait until it’s too late—register today and learn how to fortify your cyber defenses.

Source: Tribal Gaming and Hospitality


4. PERSONAL DEVELOPMENT: Introductory Tribal Finance & Accounting Certificate Program

In-person program dates: May 20-23, 2025
Registration Fee: $1,850 (NAFOA Member Tribes) | $2,000 (non-Members)

There’s still time to join the Introductory Tribal Finance & Accounting Certificate Program, offered in partnership with the Center for the Future of Work at Oklahoma State University!

This eight-week cohort program is available both in person and online, providing flexibility to learn on your own schedule while connecting with tribal finance and accounting professionals across the state and country. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to strengthen your leadership skills, this is a great opportunity to grow your expertise and network. Limited spots remain—don’t miss your chance to be part of this dynamic learning experience!


5. JOBS: Grant Administration Manager, Paskenta Band of Nomlaki Indians

The Grant Administration Manager is responsible for managing the administration of grants, including ensuring accurate and efficient collection and reporting of grant data. Additional responsibilities include the maintenance and oversight of workflow processes and procedures, and grant compliance.


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