Times posted in Eastern Time (ET) and are subject to change.

9:30 AM – 10:30 AM | Ball of Confusion: Understanding the Tribal Policies of the Current Administration

With the current Administration moving full speed ahead on priorities like energy permitting, border security, and public safety, it can feel impossible to keep up. What does it all mean for Tribal Nations? Join our dynamic panel as they unpack the latest federal actions, decode policy shifts, and offer a glimpse into what’s coming next. Stay ahead of the curve—because “that’s what the world is today, woo, hey, hey!”

• Moderator: Derek Red Arrow, Attorney, Kilpatrick Townsend & Stockton, LLP
• Katie Klass, General Counsel, United South & Eastern Tribes (USET)
• Gregory Smith, Partner, Hobbs, Straus, Dean & Walker, LLP
• Rani Williams, Senior Policy Advisor, Clause Law P.L.L.C.

11:00 AM – 12:00 PM | I Wrote the Law and Congress Won.

Tired of feeling like you’re “breaking rocks in the hot sun” just to get Congress to act on Tribal priorities? You’re not alone. Join us for a powerful panel discussion where leading advocates will break down the latest legislative developments and spotlight key priorities from the 119th Congress. Get the insights you need to turn up the pressure and move the needle for your Tribal communities!  

• Moderator: Connie Tsosie de Haro, Senior Associate Attorney, Skenandore Wilson LLP
• Meghan Bishop, Director of Policy, National Congress of American Indians
• Nicholas Lovesee, Director of Policy, Native American Finance Officers Association

12:30 PM – 1:30 PM | Beyond the Poker Face: Negotiating the Future of Indian Gaming

The landscape of Tribal gaming has exploded since the passage of the Indian Gaming Regulatory Act (IGRA), transforming from humble bingo halls into a multi-billion dollar economic powerhouse.  Today, Tribal nations operate world-class resorts that rival the glamour of Las Vegas, creating jobs and driving economic development across the nation. Everyone knows “a little gamblin’ is fun when you’re with” Tribal casinos. But with this incredible growth come complex challenges.  This panel brings together leading experts to discuss the cutting-edge legal and economic issues defining the future of Tribal gaming.”

• Moderator: Maurisa Bell, Associate, Dentons US LLP
• Tim Evans, Deputy General Counsel, Yuhaaviatam of San Manuel Nation
• Jason Giles, Executive Director, National Indian Gaming Association
• Samuel Kohn, Partner, Kaplan Kirsch LLP
• Kathryn Rand, Visiting Professor, William S. Boyd School of Law, University of Las Vegas

2:00 PM – 3:00 PM | Ahéhee’ Mr. Roboto: Generating Electricity for Data Centers and Artificial Intelligence 

The world’s demand for data is reaching a fever pitch, driven not just by our daily digital lives but by the explosive growth of artificial intelligence.  This unprecedented need for data centers presents a historic opportunity for Tribal Nations to lead in a new economic frontier.  This panel will explore how Tribal Nations can leverage this moment to build not just data centers, but a new foundation for economic sovereignty and a powerful role in shaping the future of technology.

• Moderator: Krystalyn Kinsel, Special Counsel, Jenner & Block
• Jessie Barrington, Attorney at Law, Cultural Heritage Partners, PLLC
• Suedeen Kelly, Partner, Jenner & Block LLP
• Breann Nu’uhiwa, Of Counsel, Pechanga Band of Indians

3:30 PM – 4:30 PM | From Briefcase Back to Backpack: The Best Is Yet To Come

You’ve crushed your career goals—so what’s next? Join this inspiring panel as they explore what lies beyond professional milestones. Whether it’s heading back to school, mentoring the next generation of Native legal minds, or launching your own firm, the possibilities are endless. The world is your frybread—”it’s a real good bet, the best is yet to come.”

• Moderator: Lydia Locklear Canty, Partner, Current Tribal Law & Policy, PLLC
• Gigi Modrich, Staff Attorney, Office of General Counsel, National Indian Gaming Commission
• Samantha Skenandore, Founding Partner, Skenandore Wilson LLP

If you have any questions regarding this program, please contact meetings@fedbar.org.