PRESS RELEASE
April 4, 2025
From: Utah Division of Indian Affairs
Contact: Ellen Weist, Public Information Officer; text: 503-490-4806
The Utah Department of Cultural & Community Engagement announces the appointment of James Toledo as deputy director for the Utah Division of Indian Affairs.
Toledo has been serving as a program manager for the division, where he has been instrumental in fostering relationships between the state government and Utah’s eight sovereign Tribal nations.
In his new role, Toledo will oversee division programs aimed at improving communication, cooperation, and collaboration between the state and Tribal governments. He will also continue working closely with Lieutenant Governor Deidre M. Henderson, who leads the state’s Indian affairs programs.
“James is a valuable asset to the state of Utah, helping us build strong relationships with our federally recognized Tribes,” said Lt. Governor Deidre M. Henderson. “His strong leadership abilities and experience will be invaluable, and I look forward to continuing working with him in his new role.”
UDIA Director Dustin Jansen added “James’s dedication to promoting collaboration and understanding between the state and Tribal governments aligns perfectly with UDIA’s mission. His leadership and experience will be invaluable as we continue to build strong and respectful relationships with Utah’s Indigenous communities.”
Toledo expressed his enthusiasm for his new position. “I am honored to have the opportunity to serve as deputy director of UDIA,” he said. “I look forward to continuing our important work of building bridges between the state and Tribal governments and supporting the prosperity of Utah’s Indigenous communities.”
The Utah Division of Indian Affairs, a division of the Utah Department of Cultural & Community Engagement, promotes positive intergovernmental relations and fosters government-to-government communication between the state of Utah and Utah’s American Indian Tribes.