Meet the Team

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Director of IRD, Claudia Trueblood Director, Claudia Trueblood - Claudia Trueblood served as interim director of the IRD since July 2018 and became the director in June 2019. She has over 20 years of experience in developing and directing programs related to social concerns, leadership, mentoring, and economic development and working towards building cooperative alliances. Claudia's educational background reflects her belief in multidisciplinary approaches. 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.
Cherylin Atcitty

Program Specialist Sr., Cherylin Atcitty - Cherylin Atcitty (Navajo Tribe) is originally from Bodaway/Gap but currently resides in Taos, New Mexico. Cherylin obtained her undergraduate degree from Oklahoma Panhandle State University with a Bachelor of Science in Biology and a minor in Chemistry. Her master’s degree in Environmental Science was obtained from West Texas A&M University. Her background includes working with tribes in New Mexico in natural resource management, including surface water management, air quality, agriculture, wildlife, fire, renewable energy, and entrepreneurship.

Student Assistant, Sunshine Tso Graduate Assistant, Sunshine Tso - Sunshine Tso (Diné) is of the Bitter Water Clan, born for the Yucca Clan. She was raised in Northern New Mexico in a community known as Hanaa’dli. Sunshine is a first-generation college graduate who obtained a B.S. in Agricultural Economics and Agricultural Business with a concentration in Natural Resources from NMSU. Currently, she is a graduate student pursuing an M.A. in Agricultural and Extension Education.
Image of Joshua Captain Student Assistant, Joshua Capitan - Joshua comes from the Pueblo of Laguna, but he also considers the Navajo Nation home. He is in his last semester as an undergraduate student pursuing a B.S. in Mechanical Engineering. Joshua Capitan is a dedicated college student deeply committed to supporting and uplifting Native American communities. With a passion for IRD’s focus areas of agriculture, business, engineering, natural resources, and energy, he actively fosters growth and empowerment in these vital areas. Joshua Capitan is driven by a strong sense of cultural heritage and a desire to make a lasting impact on Native American communities. He strives to bridge the gap between traditional wisdom and modern advancements through his studies and involvement, promoting sustainable development and efficient success. With a unique blend of academic knowledge, practical skills, and a deep understanding of Native American cultures, Joshua Capitan is poised to catalyze positive change within these significant focus areas.

Indian Resources Development Team Address:
Indian Resources Development
ATTN: Individual's name
MSC 3AG, PO Box 30003
New Mexico State University
Las Cruces, NM 88003-8001
Phone: 575-646-1347
Fax: 575-646-5975
Email: ird@nmsu.edu