Peter Nayquonabe has served in many tribal government roles over the years, which has prepared him well for his new position as Assistant Commissioner of Administration.
Band Assembly voted to confirm Peter last month after he was nominated by Chief Executive Melanie Benjamin.
"I am honored to fill this role within the tribal government," said Peter. "My parents, Joseph and Rita Nayquonabe, taught me the importance of a strong work ethic and having a solid family base to support you. Growing up, I watched them go to work every day to serve the Band community. My goals have always included getting my education and serving Band members and the area community to the best of my abilities."
Since 2014, Peter has worked as Executive Director of Community Development. Prior to that, he served as Deputy Director of External Affairs, Finance Manager with Community Development, Director of Tribal Child Support, and Office Manager for the Chief Executive — in addition to previous terms as Commissioner and Assistant Commissioner of Administration.
Peter holds Bachelor’s degrees in Finance and Accounting from St. Cloud State and a Master’s degree in Tribal Administration and Governance from the University of Minnesota Duluth.
The Department of Administration is responsible for the day-to-day operations of the Mille Lacs Band of Ojibwe tribal government, including administering grants and contracts and overseeing all personnel issues and lobbying activities as directed by the Chief Executive.
The department is supervised by Commissioner of Administration Baabiitaw Boyd, who was appointed by the Chief Executive and ratified by the Band Assembly last year.
The Commissioner oversees the Assistant Commissioner of Administration, the Commissioner of Community Development, the Commissioner of Health and Human Services, and the Commissioner of Natural Resources. The Commissioner serves as chief of staff to Chief Executive Melanie Benjamin and oversees day-to-day operations of the tribal government, including fiscal responsibilities, human resources, grant development, and oversight.
The Assistant Commissioner of Administration acts in a deputy-level capacity to the Commissioner of Administration to help manage the day-to-day operations of the tribal government. Duties include managing human resources, finances, and contracts for the Executive Branch of the tribal government. The Assistant Commissioner also acts as Commissioner of Administration when the Commissioner is absent and assists other commissioners with day-to-day operations as needed.