Our Story

At NATIVE-CONNECTION, community collaboration lies at the heart of our educational approach.
We work closely with Native American communities to develop programs that reflect their unique needs and aspirations.
By engaging community leaders, elders, and educators, we ensure that our initiatives are culturally authentic and responsive to the voices of the people we serve Together, we’re building a brighter future rooted in tradition, innovation, and unity.”

Young Native students engaged in a hands-on STEM workshop, focused and inspired.

A colorful mural celebrating Native American heritage and cultural symbols.

Our Mission

Our mission is to serve Native American communities with education, health and preserving cultural history.

We recognize the unique challenges faced by indigenous peoples across the United States and are dedicated to empowering them through accessible education initiatives.

From providing scholarships to supporting community-based learning programs, we strive to ensure that Native youth have the resources and opportunities they need to thrive academically and culturally.

At NATIVE-CONNECTIONS.ORG, we are committed to creating a brighter future for Native communities, one where education, health, and cultural heritage are valued and support

Our Team

Empowering native communities through education and culture.

Liam Anderson

Executive Director

Liam Anderson, known by his Ongweoweh name ΘHRAHĘ́ʔNARA ʔΘ, is dedicated to achieving economic sovereignty for his people through a career in revenue management.

A Cornell University graduate with a Bachelor of Science in Hotel Administration from the SC Johnson College of Business, Liam has demonstrated leadership as Co-Chair of the American Indian Science and Engineering Society (AISES). In this role, he represented Cornell at regional conferences, facilitating conversations to bridge Traditional Ecological Knowledge with modern STEM fields and advocating for Indigenous students in science and technology.

His professional experience includes roles such as Client Experience Manager and Coordinator at Caesars Entertainment, where he enhanced customer engagement and collaborated across departments to ensure seamless site tours and personalized experiences.

As a Management Trainee at Caesars Entertainment, he reshaped job descriptions to align with company goals and gained a comprehensive understanding of various departments.

His earlier roles include promoting diversity and operational efficiency at Wyndham Grand Jupiter and managing renovation projects at Quality Hotel at the Falls.

Liam’s commitment to his community is evident in his involvement with the Iroquois Nationals, where he played in World Lacrosse Championships and led youth camps, promoting safety and teamwork.

Salina Kravetz

Executive Director

Salina Kravetz, originally from Albuquerque, New Mexico, graduated from UNLV with a degree in criminal justice and a minor in sociology.

With over 25 years of experience in the hospitality industry, Salina has been dedicated to supporting minority businesses by providing them with tools and resources to help them grow within their communities.
Currently, she is focused on bringing an indigenous voice and perspective to the corporate world in hotels, groups, businesses, andamong business owners.

Allison M. Snelgrove

Vice President

Allison M. Snelgrove is a seasoned legal professional and executive assistant with over a decade of experience supporting law firms, corporate leadership, and complex legal operations.

She earned her Bachelor’s of Science in Paralegal Studies from Daemen University and holds an Associate’s in Applied Sciences from Erie Community College. Known for her meticulous attention to detail and poise under pressure, Allison has built a career drafting estate documents, handling Medicaid and Social Security filings, managing liquor license applications, and coordinating high-stakes depositions.

With hands-on experience using ProLaw and NYSCEF e-filing systems, she’s navigated everything from HIPAA medical record requests to client interactions during sensitive legal matters. Whether in a fast-paced law firm or serving as the right hand to a CEO, Allison’s ability to blend legal insight with executive support makes her an invaluable asset in any professional setting

Holly Chinana

Board Member

My name is Holly Chinana. I am a proud member of Jemez Pueblo, which is one of the 19 Pueblos in New Mexico and one of 575 federally recognized tribes. With 3,400 tribal members, it is among the most unique being the only indigenous tribe worldwide to speak the Towa language, which is my first language. With preservation efforts passed down from generations solely through oral tradition. Growing up in a close-knit community of this size deeply shaped my understanding of the importance of community, accountability, and representation.

My upbringing in Jemez instilled a deep respect for tradition, community, understanding cultural diversity, and environment. I hold strong beliefs of sacred knowledge that has been protected and carried across generations. I also believe in the use of natural remedies and medicine to bring holistic healing to individuals. Along with the beliefs and understanding, I learned patience, discipline, listening, and the importance of a continuous learning experience.

These foundations have played a meaningful role in shaping my professional journey. As a young leader serving as an Assistant General Manager at Albuquerque Marriott Pyramid North, I bring the values of hard work, accountability, and community into my daily routine. My background has taught me the importance of leading with integrity, supporting others, and remaining grounded while navigating challenges.

I approach my career with a mindset of continuous growth. Guided by mentorship and the belief of getting 1% better each day, I am committed to learning, evolving, and strengthening my leadership skills. I value both the discipline required to succeed in everything I do.

Today, I carry forward traditional values as I continue to develop and grow in my leadership

journey, offering a perspective that honors where I come from while contributing meaningfully

to the organizations and communities, I serve. I have learned that people must always come first.

Emmerson Shenandoah

Board Member

Emerson is an Onondaga Snipe Clan Member. A graduate of Cornell University's College of Industrial and Labor Relations, he worked as a consultant with Eagle Hill and the United South and Eastern Tribes in Washington, D.C. Emerson enjoys playing lacrosse for the Onondaga SRB Redhawks and rock climbing in his free time.