Rachel Edwards, Secretary of the Nez Perce Tribal Executive Committee (NPTEC), has been selected to serve as a National At-Large Alternate Delegate on the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Secretary’s Tribal Advisory Committee.
According to a news release from the Nez Perce Tribe, the primary purpose of the advisory committee is to seek consensus, exchange views, share information, and provide advice and or recommendations; or facilitate any other interaction related to intergovernmental responsibilities or administration of HHS programs.
The selection ensures the Nez Perce Tribe will have a voice in federal health and human services policy discussions, provides an opportunity to advocate for Tribal health priorities and funding allocations, and improves access to healthcare services for Native communities.
As an Alternate Delegate, Edwards will take part in meetings, forums, and discussions when a National At-Large Primary Delegate is unavailable. She will engage with federal officials to provide valuable input, share Tribal perspectives, and advocate for policies that benefit Tribal communities. She will serve a two-year term ending in December 2027.
Edwards participated in her first committee meeting under the new Administration and HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy, Jr., on February 25th and 26th. The next meeting is scheduled for April 24th in conjunction with the agency’s annual Tribal Budget Consultation.
