Deputy Commissioner of Indian Affairs, Hilda Manuel, has announced her resignation from government service effective April 7, 2000. Ms. Manuel, a member of the Tohono O'odham Nation, has worked at the BIA for ten years, including more than five years as Deputy Commissioner. She served two Assistant Secretary -Indian Affairs appointees. Ms. Manuel has provided strong leadership during some tumultuous times for the Bureau of Indian Affairs.
"Hilda Manuel has been down in the trenches with her sleeves rolled up dealing with some of the toughest issues that face this Department," Interior Secretary Bruce Babbitt said. "Her hard work is greatly appreciated and we wish her every success in future endeavors."
"Few people know the burden of responsibility that a Deputy Commissioner bears, and Hilda carried that burden with great strength and integrity ," said Assistant Secretary -Indian Affairs Kevin Gover. "I believe there can be no finer tribute to a leader than to say that she made things better. Hilda made things better. I wish her great success and thank her for her service."
Ms. Manuel led the Trust Reform effort at the BIA, working diligently to put into place the automated Trust Asset and Accounting Management System (TAAMS). She has been a champion of the BIA Law Enforcement Office. She has worked hard to put more Indian police in Indian Country to provide the adequate personnel backup so badly needed in the remote communities they protect.
Prior to her appointment as the Deputy Commissioner, Ms. Manuel served as the first Staff Director of the Indian Gaming Management Office. Ms. Manuel has also served as the Director, Office of Tribal Services, Chief of the Division of Tribal Government Services, and Chief of the Branch of Judicial Services.
