NPT Celebrates Rachel P. Edwards’ Appointment to U.S. Department Health and Human Services Secretary’s Tribal Advisory Committee

NPT Celebrates Rachel P. Edwards’ Appointment to U.S. Department Health and Human Services Secretary’s Tribal Advisory Committee

Lapwai, ID – The Nez Perce Tribe is proud to announce Rachel P. Edwards, Secretary of the Nez Perce Tribal Executive Committee (NPTEC), was selected to serve as a National At-Large Alternate Delegate on the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) Secretary’s Tribal Advisory Committee (STAC).  The primary purpose of the STAC is to seek consensus, exchange views, share information, and provide advice and/or recommendations; or facilitate any other interaction related to intergovernmental responsibilities or administration of HHS programs.

This selection ensures the Nez Perce Tribe will have a voice in federal health and human services policy discussions, provides an opportunity to advocate for our Tribal health priorities and funding allocations, and improves access to healthcare services for Native communities.

As the STAC National At-Large Alternate Delegate, Ms. Edwards will participate in meetings, forums, and discussions when a National At-Large Primary Delegate is unavailable. She will engage with federal officials to provide valuable input, share Tribal perspectives, and advocate for policies that benefit Tribal communities. Ms. Edwards will serve a two-year term ending in December 2027.

“This appointment is an honor, and I look forward to representing the Tribe to ensure federal policies reflect the needs of Tribal Nations, which is critical to improving health outcomes and strengthening sovereignty. I am committed to advocating for meaningful change that benefits not only the Nez Perce Tribe, but all Tribal communities,” expressed Rachel P. Edwards.

NPTEC Chairman, Shannon F. Wheeler, highlighted the significance of this achievement sharing, “Rachel Edwards’ selection for this national advisory role is a testament to her dedication to public service and advocacy. Her participation in the Secretary’s Tribal Advisory Committee will help ensure that our Tribal priorities are elevated in federal decision-making.”

Additionally, the Nez Perce Tribal flag will be displayed in the HHS Hall of Tribal Nations for the duration of Ms. Edwards’ appointment, symbolizing the Tribe’s presence and ongoing contributions to Tribal health advocacy.

Ms. Edwards participated in her first STAC meeting under the new Administration and HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy, Jr., on February 25–26. The next meeting is scheduled for April 24 in conjunction with the HHS annual Tribal Budget Consultation.

The Nez Perce Tribe would like to congratulate Rachel P. Edwards on this distinguished recognition and looks forward to her service on this important committee and her participation in discussions significant to the Tribe.