20thAnnual Utah Native American Summit

July 29th - July 31st, 2026 at Utah Valley University in Orem, Utah.

Welcome & Mission

For two decades, the Utah Native American Summit (UNAS) has served as Utah’s premier forum for meaningful dialogue between Tribal leaders, state officials, and community partners. Our Summit’s mission remains steadfast: to foster a space where culture is honored,we openly discuss roadblocks and collaborate on actionable solutions, and sustainable solutions for health, education, and economic development are forged.

Join us as we come together under this year's theme, Strengthen Sovereignty through CommUNITY, to collaborate, discuss, and inspire the future leaders of Utah's Tribal Nations, because when we work together, we can create greater impact.

Register for the Public Day on (July 31)

Secure your spot to gather in CommUNITY for the Summit.

View the Full Conference Agenda

Explore session descriptions, speakers, and times.

Register for the Tribal Leader Summit (July 29-30)

State and Tribal government only, closed to the public.

Submit a Changemaker Award Nomination

Honor an impactful Indigenous youth leader.

Conference Tracks

The 2026 Summit is structured to address specific community, legislative, and youth priorities across three dedicated program tracks.

Government-to-Government

Tribal Leader Summit (Closed Session)

  • Audience: Tribal Leaders, State Agency Tribal Liaisons, and Legislative Officials.
  • Focus: Building Government-to-Government Relationships. These first two days are dedicated strictly to state-tribal relations and are not open to the general public. Tribal governments will engage in one-on-one meetings with state agencies to discuss unique tribal needs, enhance communication, and hear community priorities.

Public Conference & Engagement

Adult Track (Open to the Public)

  • Audience: Community partners, educators, state-tribal liaisons, state and tribal leaders, and the general public.
  • Focus: Learning about tribal concerns, exploring collaborative efforts to address community priorities, and celebrating our rich, diverse cultures. Breakout sessions are led by subject-matter experts with experience working in Tribal communities.
  • Breakout Session Categories:
    • Cultural Education
    • Economic Development
    • Education
    • Health and Wellness
    • State Tribal Liaison Training

Indigenous Youth Leadership Program (IYLP)

  • Audience: Indigenous youth and young leaders ages 14-24.
  • Focus: Fostering leadership skills, cultural identity, and career pathway discovery in a collaborative space designed specifically for the next generation of leaders.
Program
Register (Attendee)

Keynote Speakers

Dougie Hall | Featured Speaker, Utah Native American Summit

An accomplished rodeo athlete, inspirational speaker, entrepreneur, and actor. Dougie’s powerful journey of perseverance, leadership, and resilience continues to inspire audiences everywhere.

Full Bio

Eric Michael Hernandez | Featured Speaker, Indigenous Youth Leadership Program

An acclaimed Native American hoop dancer, filmmaker, and digital storyteller. Eric uses culture, storytelling, and the arts to uplift contemporary Indigenous voices and inspire Native youth.

Full Bio

The 2026 Changemaker Award

The Changemaker Award honors the powerful voices and actions of young Indigenous leaders who are making a meaningful impact across Utah’s Tribal Nations and urban communities. We are excited to recognize a new cohort of young people driving positive change throughout the state.
  • Eligibility: Indigenous youth (American Indian / Alaska Native) ages 14–24.
  • Recognition: A total of 6 awardees will be selected and celebrated during the Summit.
  • Criteria: Outstanding leadership, community dedication, and a demonstrated commitment to:
    • Cultural preservation and promotion
    • Community service and civic engagement
    • Academic excellence and career growth
    Changemaker Award Recipients

    Venue & Accommodations

    Venue

    Utah Valley University, Sorensen Center
    800 W University Pkwy
    Orem, UT 84058

    Campus maps & parking information

    Stay tuned for updates

    Hotels near the venue

    • Holiday Inn Express & Suites Orem-North Provo
      1290 W University Parkway
      Orem, UT 84058
    • Hampton Inn & Suites Orem
      851 W 1250 S
      Orem, UT 84058
    • La Quinta Inn & Suites Orem University Pkwy
      521 W University Parkway
      Orem, UT 84058

    Questions?

    Contact the Utah Native American Summit organizing committee:

    [email protected], [email protected], or [email protected]