Patrick Burtt
The Washoe Tribe of Nevada and California announces vice chairman of the Washoe Tribal Council, Patrick Burtt, has been selected as a member of the National Center for American Indian Enterprise Development 2025 class of Native American 40 Under 40 Award honorees.
Burtt was nominated by his peers for this recognition. The Native American 40 Under 40 Award honors individuals who demonstrate leadership, initiative, and dedication, making contributions to their professions and communities.
Burtt exemplifies these qualities through his accomplishments and commitment to serving the Washoe tribe and the broader Native American community. Burtt’s leadership and contributions include:
• Legislative leadership and vision: Co-introduced SB 391 during the 82nd Nevada legislative session.
• Community impact: Co-founded the Dresslerville Red Bear Youth Council, a UNITY chapter, empowering young people and fostering their development.
• Cultural preservation: Co-authored multiple property designations for Martis Valley, ensuring the protection of culturally significant sites.
• Indigenous entrepreneurship: Founded and serves as president of Red Writers: Indigenous Anthropological Research Group, promoting research and understanding of indigenous cultures.
In addition to these achievements, Burtt serves as the inaugural chairman of the Great Basin Tribal Alliance, vice chairman of the Inter-Tribal Council of Nevada, and co-president of the Native Graduate Student Alliance at the University of Nevada, Reno.
Burtt is pursuing a Ph.D., in anthropology from the University of Nevada, and holds Master of Indian Studies from UCLA and a Master of Native American Studies from ASU. Burtt is also an advocate for education and has received several scholarships.