Tribal Sub-Chief Shelley Jacobs

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Shelley Jacobs is an elected member of the Saint Regis Mohawk Tribe, serving her third term as Sub-Chief. It is her mission as a leader to make Akwesasne a better community for the next generation. Sub-Chief Jacobs is determined to impact the future of Akwesasne through three main priorities while in office: education, transparency and sustainability.

Serving as the Saint Regis Mohawk Tribal Council’s lead liaison to the Akwesasne Housing Authority (AHA), Sub-Chief Jacobs supports the collaborative efforts between AHA governing board, the Executive Director, and Tribal Council. “Working together, long-term sustainability projects are planned that will bring additional housing for Veterans and Seniors.The Go Solar Remote Net Metering Initiative will reduce electrical costs and increase energy efficiency by creating a solar farm.”

The ability to connect our past and future generations through cultural restoration is imperative. Shelley holds the words of an elder close in her decision making, “What identifies us is our language. When we lose our language, we lose our culture.” Linking the educational needs of our children to the future was an educational priority for Sub-Chief Jacobs. She proudly served as the Executive Sponsor for the Broadband Initiative that connected more than 1,600 homes to fiber optic technology, supporting economic development, advances in modern healthcare and improved educational opportunities.

Transparency in the Saint Regis Mohawk Tribal governmental organizational structure has improved through open work session legislation, a resolution spearheaded by Sub-Chief Jacobs. Shelley understood achieving sustainability through fiscal responsibility required an open door to listen to her community and encourage two-way communication. Shelley continues to use her experience in business management to encourage ongoing economic development at Akwesasne.

Sub-Chief Shelley Jacobs served three years as the Chairman of the Mohawk Gaming Enterprises, LLC, the Tribal corporate entity that owns and operates the Tribe’s Class II and III gaming operations. She served as the Assistant Director of Food and Beverage at the Akwesasne Mohawk Casino Resort for three years. Her commitment to excellence in guest services was a priority she proudly shared with her team. Shelley has expertise in streamlining of processes, achieving greater efficiency and business management. Shelley is pursuing a certificate in leadership and financial management.(2016)

July 1, 2010 to June 30, 2013

July 1, 2013 to June 30, 2016

July 1, 2016 to June 30, 2019