Danae Wilson Appointed Interim Executive Director of the Nez Perce Tribe
Lapwai, Idaho — On March 26, 2025, the Nez Perce Tribe appointed Danae Wilson, an enrolled member, as Interim Executive Director of tribal government operations. A nationally recognized leader in tribal broadband policy and digital sovereignty, Wilson brings more than 30 years of experience at the local, state, and federal levels to the position. She succeeds Jesse Leighton, the Executive Director for the past five years.
Wilson comes to the Tribe after having served as the Director of the Division of Indigenous Connectivity and Technology within the Bureau of Indian Affairs. Wilson’s leadership has spanned numerous national platforms and major federal initiatives. In 2021, she joined the National Telecommunications and Information Administration on a two-year detail to the White House Office of Science and Technology Policy (OSTP), where she served as Assistant Director for Internet Access. Her portfolio at OSTP focused on expanding rural and tribal high-speed internet connectivity—a continuation of her life’s work in bridging the digital divide for Native communities.
Prior to her work for the federal government, Wilson served the Nez Perce Tribe for 27 years as manager of the Department of Information Technology, leading efforts to deploy high-speed networks across Tribal lands. She also worked as a consultant for Meta, where she developed a Tribal connectivity plan and helped establish community-operated trial networks in Indian Country.
“Danae’s leadership skills, technical expertise, and deep commitment to Tribal communities make her exceptionally well-suited to guide the Nez Perce Tribe during this transitional period,” said Shannon F. Wheeler, Chairman of the Nez Perce Tribal Executive Committee. “We are honored to welcome her into this role and confident in the steady, strategic leadership she brings.”
As part of a structured transition plan, Jesse Leighton will serve in an advisory capacity following Wilson’s appointment. His continued support will ensure continuity and a seamless transfer of institutional knowledge.
“I am deeply grateful for the opportunity to serve my tribal community and people. It’s been an honor to work alongside so many incredible individuals over the past five years. As I step away, I have full confidence that Ms. Wilson will continue the important work with the same dedication and momentum to ensure our tribe’s continued success. Thank you all for your support, collaboration, and commitment to our shared mission,” stated Mr. Leighton.
“We offer our sincere gratitude to Jesse for five years of service to the Nez Perce Tribe,” Chairman Wheeler added. “His leadership strengthened operations, expanded capacity, and centered the values of our people in everything he did. His contributions will have lasting positive impacts for generations.”
Recruitment for the permanent Executive Director position will begin immediately. In the interim, the Nez Perce Tribe remains focused on its mission and committed to serving the community with strength, integrity, and continuity.