The Navajo Division of Children and Family Services (NDCFS) proudly announces that Deannah Neswood-Gishey, Department Manager III for the Department of Child Care and Development (DCCD), has been elected to serve as Secretary of the Public Law 102-477 Section Executive Committee of the National Indian and Native American Employment and Training Conference (NINAETC).
Founded in 1979, NINAETC is the largest and most representative national association dedicated to Indian and Native American employment and training. The organization provides training and technical assistance to grantees of Public Law 102-477 and Section 166 of the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act, while serving as a national forum for collaboration, advocacy, and recognition of excellence in Native workforce development.
Neswood-Gishey was elected by tribal directors from across the nation during the 45th Annual NINAETC Conference, held on December 11, 2025, in Providence, Rhode Island. Her election reflects the confidence of tribal leadership nationwide and the growing role of the Navajo Nation in shaping national workforce policy.
Addressing the call for fresh leadership during her remarks, Neswood-Gishey shared with humility and pride, “I’m new, old blood,” highlighting the value of renewed leadership grounded in experience. She spoke to her many years working across social work and workforce programs and emphasized the importance of relationship-building and advocacy on behalf of all tribes. As a former member of the Administration for Children and Families (ACF) Tribal Advisory Committee, she brings a broad national perspective and a proven commitment to advancing tribal priorities. “Being a member gave me invaluable experience working with ACF officials, and we were able to continue advocacy moving forward,” she said.
NDCFS Executive Director Thomas Cody nominated Neswood-Gishey for the role. He said it was exciting for the Navajo Nation to be represented in leadership on the Section 477 Committee, especially as the Nation has only recently implemented its 477 program. “This election signifies the Navajo Nation’s readiness to lead and contribute at the national level,” Cody said.
The Navajo Division of Children and Family Services recently began to operate its federally funded programs under an approved Navajo Nation 477 Plan, effective October 2024. Programs included under the plan are the Department of Child Care and Development, Department for Self Reliance, Department of Family Services, and the Navajo Indian Child Welfare Act Program.
Public Law 102-477, the Indian Employment, Training, and Related Services Consolidation Act, allows tribes to consolidate federal employment, training, and related service funds into a single plan, budget, audit, and report. The law is designed to promote self-sufficiency, reduce unemployment, and strengthen tribal communities through workforce development and job training.
A proud Navajo civil servant and U.S. Army veteran, Neswood-Gishey brings more than 30 years of experience addressing the social challenges facing the Navajo Nation. Known for her strong advocacy and disciplined leadership, she embraces her role with purpose and resolve. As Secretary, her focus will include advocating for wrap-around services that meet tribal needs, supporting full implementation of Indian self-governance, and championing increased funding with fewer restrictions for tribes nationwide.
NDCFS celebrates Neswood-Gishey’s election as a reflection of Navajo leadership, experience, and the enduring commitment to strengthening Native communities through service and vision.
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