We recently honored inspiring leaders in Native housing and economic development for creating a positive impact.
Presented at our annual conference, the Travois Superhero Awards honor industry professionals for exceptional contributions to their communities.
In 2025, the honorees’ accomplishments included political advocacy, project compliance, innovative development, and more.
We sincerely congratulate each recipient on their well-deserved recognition.
Housing Professional of the Year
Darcy Padilla, executive director of the Hoopa Valley Housing Authority (HVHA), was named Housing Professional of the Year for her resilience in developing K’is Di Ya:n Ding, or Elders’ Place, in Hoopa, California.
Padilla and HVHA overcame major challenges in their first Low-Income Housing Tax Credit project, notably advocating for Tribal sovereignty in housing regulations to obtain tax credits and securing vital infrastructure funding to make the project possible.
“I believe that there has already been a tremendous positive impact for members of our community simply by them seeing housing built, specifically for our elders,” Padilla said.
Economic Development Team of the Year
Big Fire Law & Policy Group was honored as the Economic Development Team of the Year for its efforts to advocate for Tribal nations in accessing federal resources and supporting the visions of Native community leaders.
In recent years, Big Fire Law & Policy Group has also emerged as a top firm in New Markets Tax Credit deals, which offer gap funding for economic development projects.
“These types of projects improve the community, provide jobs, locations for business growth, and services for Tribal members,” Big Fire Law & Policy Group said. “It is very rewarding to help any Tribe further these types of goals.”
Haven of the Year
Issa Nameh won Haven of the Year for his role in the Pascua Yaqui Tribe’s affordable housing success. As a senior accountant, he has kept the Tribe’s 10 LIHTC projects, including three under construction, compliant with state and investor requirements.
“No matter the hurdles, Issa has met them head-on with determination and a positive attitude,” said Amanda Allen, asset manager for Travois.
Nameh said the most rewarding part of his job is “giving back to the Pascua Yaqui Tribe that helps so many community members in need” and “knowing I have a part in ensuring affordable housing” for the future.
Project Team of the Year
The Fallon Paiute-Shoshone Tribe earned Project Team of the Year recognition for their teamwork and determination in developing Sagebrush, an affordable housing development of 22 homes and a community building in Fallon, Nevada.
The Tribal council, housing board, and staff were closely involved from the start, working diligently to develop their first tax credit project.
“The team is never afraid to ask hard questions and think big,” said Abby Day, project manager for Travois. “Soon, 22 families will have brand new, beautiful homes as a direct result of their tenacity and passion.”
Pillar of the Year
Yavapai-Apache Nation Tribal Housing’s maintenance department earned Pillar of the Year honors.
Recently, the team quickly corrected findings from a state inspection and submitted documentation in less than a day. Their prompt action helped the Nation continue developing safe, affordable housing by securing a 10th LIHTC award.
“Even with the heavy workload and what seems to be a never-ending list of work orders, the men and women of the maintenance department remain very involved in their community,” said Mike Price, director of Travois Asset Management and Compliance. “They ensure the tenants they serve have everything they need.”
Transformative Initiative of the Year
Mille Lacs Corporate Ventures (MLCV) won the Transformative Initiative of the Year award for renovating three buildings into vibrant business incubators in Onamia and Hinckley, Minnesota.
The business incubators will provide essential support for entrepreneurs and small businesses, strengthening the local economy from within.
“Our hope is that our work creates a stronger sense of connection, stability, and possibility for everyone in the Mille Lacs Tribal Economy,” MLCV Director of Planning and Community Engagement Beth Gruber said. “By expanding access to housing, childcare, and meaningful employment, we’re working to ensure that people don’t have to choose between opportunity and staying rooted in their community.”
Groundbreaking Team of the Year
The Tuolumne Economic Development Authority (TEDA) won Groundbreaking Team of the Year for closing on its first LIHTC development and beginning construction in record time.
TEDA is building 30 single-family homes, a community center, and play areas in Tuolumne, California. Named the Westside Subdivision, TEDA developed the project for families, emphasizing that affordable housing is crucial for economic growth.
TEDA President Darryl Tinkle said the rising cost of living in the community has left workers without affordable housing options.
“I would love to see future tenants maximizing the benefits of these homes, setting themselves up for the next step in the pursuit of homeownership,” Tinkle said.