TUCSON, AZ – Indian Gaming Association (IGA) Chairman David Z. Bean delivered the keynote at the 2026 Tribal Leaders Summit, hosted by the University of Arizona Native American Advancement & Tribal Engagement program. The summit drew representatives from Arizona’s 22 federally recognized tribes, along with elected officials, regulators, educators, and students, for discussions on leadership, education, economic development, and tribal sovereignty.
Bean’s remarks focused on education as a tool for advancing tribal self-determination and preparing the next generation of leaders.
“Education has always been one of the most powerful tools available to Tribal Nations,” said Chairman Bean. “Whether we are educating our young people, our elected leaders, Congress, or federal regulators, knowledge is what empowers us to protect our sovereignty and shape our future. Every opportunity to tell the story of Indian Country is an opportunity to strengthen our nations.”…