Meet Our 2026 Tribal TANF Presenters

The Tribal TANF Institute resonates far beyond the event itself. Keep the Institute's inspiration going and growing with reflections from our esteemed presenters. 

Matt Franklin, Opening Keynote Presenter

Miwok-Nisenan; Miwok Tribe; Member of the Franklin and Blue Families of Northern California

“We have the right to serve our people. We need to bring traditions and culture back into our programs. I want you all to walk away with a sense of pride for who you are. We can design and run programs for our own people the best. You need to remember that.” 

Franklin offered an inspiring reminder of the strength found within Native communities and the importance of honoring their own knowledge, traditions and ways of serving their people. He encouraged Native leaders to walk into meetings with government decision-makers with confidence and pride—not as guests seeking permission, but as advocates representing their communities on Native land. He emphasized that Native people are the experts on what their communities need and have both the right and the responsibility to ensure those needs are heard and honored. He also challenged attendees to bring Native traditions, culture and ways of knowing back into their programs, recognizing that Native communities are best positioned to design and lead services that reflect their values and strengths. He reminded us that communities grow stronger when people come together, break down silos, support one another and work toward shared goals. By building relationships, sharing knowledge and standing together, Native communities strengthen their ability to create meaningful change and improve the well-being of future generations.

Karalee Joseph, Closing Keynote Presenter

Lone Pine Paiute-Shoshone Tribe of California

My sisters. My brothers. We are home.

The event concluded with a heartfelt keynote from Karalee Joseph, who reminded us of the importance of unity across Native communities. Her closing words—"My sisters. My brothers. We are home.”—served as a heartfelt reminder that, despite different Nations, cultures and experiences, they are connected as Native people. Her message emphasized the strength found in belonging, honoring one another and remembering that Native people are never alone in this work.

Loren O. Joseph, Closing Keynote Presenter

Lone Pine Paiute-Shoshone Tribe of California; Direct Descendant of Renowned Nez Perce Leader Chief Joseph (Hin-mah-too-yah-lat-kekt)

If it is to be, it is up to me.

Loren O. Joseph shared a powerful message of personal responsibility, leadership, and collective action. His message spoke to the responsibility each of us carries to create meaningful change, strengthen our communities and take action toward the future we envision. He reminded us that lasting, positive change begins with our willingness to show up, lead with purpose and contribute in ways that support the well-being of our people. His closing message was a call to embrace personal responsibility while recognizing that our individual actions, when combined, have the power to create lasting collective impact. He invited attendees to affirm their own strength and potential by saying aloud, “I am a winner!” The room came alive with voices, laughter, movement and shared joy as attendees jumped up and celebrated together. It was a powerful moment filled with connection, encouragement, and love—a reminder that we each carry the ability to make a positive difference in our communities.