FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT
Marvin Pinnecoose, Chairman – 970.563.2402
Summer Begay, Communication Specialist– 970.563.2313
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: May 15, 2026
Southern Ute Indian Reservation – Chairman Marvin Pinnecoose has announced that Lindsay J. Box will serve as Executive Officer of the Permanent Fund. This appointment supports the continued delivery of government services and operational stability during the leadership transition. Chairman Pinnecoose was confirmed as Acting Chairman through Resolution No. 2026-096.
“This appointment reflects our commitment to stability, continuity, and a strong future for our Tribe. Lindsay brings the experience, vision, and dedication needed to guide the Permanent Fund, and I am confident her leadership will help us build on our strengths while creating new opportunities for our Tribal Membership,” shared Chairman Pinnecoose.
Ms. Box brings a proven record of leadership and a deep understanding of Tribal operations to her new role. Having served in several key positions, she offers both institutional knowledge and a forward-looking perspective essential for guiding the Permanent Fund’s strategic growth. Box most recently served as Executive Officer under Chairman Melvin J. Baker starting in January 2024.
Rooted in her Nuuchiu heritage, Ms. Box remains dedicated to ensuring that cultural values continue to guide the Tribe’s development. Her educational background includes a Bachelor of Arts in Sociology/Criminology, Bachelor of Arts in American Indian Studies, and a Master of Business Administration with a concentration in Marketing Leadership from Boise State University. She is pursuing a Masters in Legal Studies from Texas A&M focusing on Human Resources, Employment Law, and Business Law & Compliance, reflecting her commitment to continued growth and professional excellence.
In her role as Executive Officer, Ms. Box will leverage her strengths in strategic planning, policy development, and organizational leadership to advance the priorities established by Tribal Council and ensure the long-term strength of the Permanent Fund. Reflecting on her appointment, Ms. Box shared, “It is an honor to continue to serve the Tribe in this capacity and help steward resources that support our membership now and into the future. I look forward to working alongside Tribal leadership to strengthen the Permanent Fund while honoring our cultural values and building opportunities for the next generations.”
During her tenure, Ms. Box has advanced significant achievements and milestones aimed at strengthening and improving Tribal government, including but not limited to:
General Obligation Bonds & Affordable Housing
- Successful issuance of the 2025 General Obligation Bonds to fund the Buckskin Charley Apartments, advancing much-needed affordable housing and reinforcing the Tribe’s leadership in capital markets.
Government Performance, Efficiency, and Innovation Study
- Launch of a comprehensive, Tribe-wide evaluation to improve accountability, service delivery, efficiency, and long-term sustainability across all programs and departments.
Comprehensive Agricultural Management Plan (CAMP)
- Development of a long-term, multi-generational strategy to strengthen food sovereignty, land use, water rights, workforce development, and economic opportunity through agriculture.
Business and Operational Planning Modernization
- Advanced the Tribe’s Business and Operational Plans into a true strategic framework, establishing clear goals, strengthening accountability, aligning staffing and resources, and improving long-term service delivery across Tribal government.
As the daughter of Janis Smith and the late Orian L. Box, Lindsay is a proud mother to Tavian (18) and Kiko (7). Her commitment to heritage is evident in her beadwork and sewing, preserving and celebrating Ute culture with every stitch. For more information, please contact the Executive Office at 970-563-2301.
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