Director, Cherylin Atcitty - Cherylin Atcitty (Navajo Tribe) is originally from Bodaway/Gap and currently resides in Taos, New Mexico. Cherylin has a B.S. in Biology with a minor in Chemistry from Oklahoma Panhandle State University and a M.S. in environmental science from West Texas A&M University. Her background includes working with tribes in New Mexico in natural resource management, air quality, wildlife, fire, surface water, renewable energy, agriculture, and entrepreneurship.

Program Specialist Sr., Joshua Capitan - Joshua Capitan comes from the Pueblo of Laguna but also considers the Navajo Nation home. Joshua recently got B.S. in Mechanical Engineering with minors in Native American Studies (NAS) and Physics, Joshua is a dedicated to supporting and uplifting Native American communities. With a passion for IRD’s focus areas—Agriculture, Business, Education, Engineering, Natural Resources, and Energy—he actively fosters growth and empowerment in these vital sectors.

Driven by a strong sense of cultural heritage and a desire to make a lasting impact, Joshua seeks to bridge the gap between traditional wisdom and modern advancements through what he continues to learn in his academic studies and community involvement. With a unique blend of technical expertise, practical skills, and a deep understanding of Native American cultures, Joshua is poised to catalyze positive change and contribute meaningfully to the growth and future prosperity of his communities

Student Assistant, Nyssa Mendez - Nyssa Mendez comes from the Tohono O’odham tribe in Southern Arizona but currently living in Tucson, AZ. She is in her junior year as an undergraduate pursuing a degree in animal science. She would like to explore more opportunities and learn more about the surrounding world while attending NMSU.

Consultant, Claudia Trueblood - Claudia Trueblood served as Interim Director of IRD since July 2018, and Director from June 2019 to October 2023. She serves as a consultant for IRD. She holds a B.S. in Economics, an M.A. in Communication Studies, and a Ph.D. in Water Science and Management. Claudia is passionate about creating educational and economic development opportunities and working in a cooperative way.