The University of Utah has announced the appointment of Samantha Eldlyridge as Tribal Liaison for each of the eight federally recognized indigenous nations in the state. In addition to this new role, Eldridge will maintain her position as director of the American Indian Resource Center, where she will guide the Tribal Advisory Board.
Liaison's core responsibilities
The duties of the liaison include serving on the Task Force for Repatriation & Data Stewardship. In this capacity, Eldridge will assist in developing processes to ensure that physical and digital artifacts, data, materials, and remains are returned to Indigenous groups and preserved for use by academics and community groups.
Succession and MOU oversight
Eldridge succeeds Dr. Bryan Hubain, who served as the university representative for inquiries regarding the Memorandum of Understanding with the Ute Indian Tribe. Eldridge will serve in an advisory capacity to the President on the task force responsible for overseeing the implementation of MOU provisions and addressing student issues. The terms of this MOU are scheduled for review in March 2025.
University commitment to Indigenous communities
University President Taylor Randall expressed confidence that Eldridge will help advance the university's commitment to Native and Indigenous students and communities through campus and community partnerships.
Candidate qualifications and tribal sovereignty
Mary Ann Villarreal, vice president for Equity, Diversity, & Inclusion, stated that Eldridge is an ideal candidate due to her background in Utah’s indigenous community and her experience leading the American Indian Resource Center. The liaison will work to ensure university programs and policies are developed alongside tribal heads of state or government representatives to honor tribal sovereignty.
