Washoe Tribe Vice Chairman named among top Native American 40 Under 40

Washoe Tribal Council Vice Chairman Patrick Burtt has been selected as a member of the National Center for American Indian Enterprise Development 2025 class of Native American 40 Under 40 Award honorees after being nominated by his peers.

Burtt exemplifies these qualities through his diverse accomplishments and commitment to serving the Washoe Tribe and the broader Native American community, according to the Center.

“We are incredibly proud of Vice Chairman Burtt for this well-deserved recognition,” said Dresslerville Women’s Circle President and Elder Elsa James. “His leadership and dedication are invaluable to our Tribe, and he serves as an inspiration to our youth and future generations.”

The Native American 40 Under 40 Award honors individuals who demonstrate leadership, initiative, and dedication, making significant contributions to their professions and communities.

“Each of these remarkable individuals has shown a commitment to going beyond boundaries to build a bright future for Indian Country,” said President and CEO of NCAIED Chris James. “They join more than 600 past honorees in what has been an increasingly tight-knit and collaborative group. I’m excited to celebrate the 2025 class’s achievements at RES 2025 and follow their success in the years ahead.”

Burtt’s leadership and contributions include:

• Legislative Leadership and Vision: Co-introduced SB 391 (Shutdown the Siren) during the 82nd Nevada State Legislative Session, demonstrating his commitment to advocating for tribal interests.
• Community Impact: Co-founded the Dresslerville Red Bear Youth Council, a UNITY chapter, empowering young people and fostering their development.
• Cultural Preservation: Co-authored multiple property designations for Martis Valley, ensuring the protection of culturally significant sites.
• Indigenous Entrepreneurship: Founded and serves as President of Red Writers: Indigenous Anthropological Research Group, promoting research and understanding of Indigenous cultures.

In addition to these achievements, Burtt serves as the Inaugural Chairman of the Great Basin Tribal Alliance, Vice Chairman of the Inter-Tribal Council of Nevada, and Co-President of the Native Graduate Student Alliance at the University of Nevada, Reno, further demonstrating his commitment to leadership and service. Recently chosen American Indian Policy Institute at the Arizona State University. Currently, Burtt is pursuing a doctorate in Anthropology from the University of Nevada, holds masters of Indian Studies from UCLA and a masters of Native American Studies from ASU. Burtt is also a strong advocate for education and has received several notable scholarships.