Kari McCormick

Kari McCormick is the Executive Director of Native Advancement and Tribal Engagement (NAATE) at the University of Arizona in Tucson, AZ. In this role, she enhances national government-to-government relationships between the University and Tribal Leadership from Native American Tribes across the country. On campus, she leads various Native-focused Tribal initiatives, including the development of a student ambassador program, a Visiting Elders program, and the establishment of a future Native Student Learning Center and Unity Plaza, which will honor and provide a gathering space for all twenty-two Arizona Tribes.

With over twenty-five years of experience in Indian Country, Kari has built trusting relationships within the Architecture and Construction sectors, focusing on cultural competencies and regulatory compliance. Her dedication to improving the lives of Native Peoples is reflected in her emphasis on economic and community development. She is passionate about understanding the unique cultures of each Tribe, honoring Indigenous Nations' traditions and histories, and fostering collaborative efforts within the construction and design industry to advocate and promote progressive and impactful development in Indian Country.

Throughout her career, Kari has worked with over one hundred Tribal Nations, focusing on workforce development, enhancing TERO and Tribal training programs, mentoring individuals, and securing resources to support their success in the design and construction fields. She is actively involved in various national and local boards and non-profits, currently serving as secretary on the American Indian Chamber of Arizona Executive Board and on the Board of Directors for the National Boys and Girls Club of American Native Services.

Kari lives in Arizona with her husband of twenty-five years and is a proud mother of four grown children, as well as a grandmother to five wonderful grandchildren.