Meet Our Board of Directors
At Intertribal Friendship House (IFH), our Board of Directors provides guidance and oversight to ensure the organization stays aligned with its mission and vision while serving the native community responsibly. The Board works with IFH leadership to support long-term planning, financial oversight, and key decision-making.
While not involved in daily operations, Board members play an important role in supporting leadership and helping ensure IFH’s continued strength and accountability.
Marie Hernandez, Chair
Hoopa Valley Tribe
Marie completed her Master of Legal Studies in Indigenous Peoples’ Law at the University of Oklahoma and plans to use her education to bring visibility to the struggles of Native Americans in urban settings. Born and raised in the East Bay, Marie found a connection to the urban Native community at Intertribal Friendship House, where she has served as a Board Member since 2009.
She previously worked as the Lodge Director for the Friendship House Association of American Indians and also served as a case manager for Washoe Native TANF in San Francisco for two years. Marie has the knowledge and understanding of how our systems work and how to change them for the better. Her focus is on her tribe, her community, and all nations of Indigenous Peoples.
Lisa Dodson, Secretary
Eastern Band Cherokee, Jicarilla Apache, Taos Pueblo
Siyo! I’ve had the pleasure of serving on Intertribal Friendship House’s Board of Directors in various roles. I was born and raised in the East Bay and currently reside in San Lorenzo. I am the mother of four children (three are powwow dancers), a grandmother to two grandsons, and the daughter of giving parents. My mother is a seamstress, and my father is a jack of all trades. I learned the gift of volunteering my time and energy by following their example.
I grew up in the suburbs, attending many public schools and often being the only Native student there. I am of mixed tribes and also part Irish, making me a truly intertribal person. I’ve always appreciated IFH’s classes, ceremonies, teachings, and, most of all, the many years of Drum and Dance with All Nations Drum.
Outside of serving on the Board, I enjoy traveling on a budget, spending quality time with my family, and enjoying time with my dog, JJ.
