Sharon Pazi Zea

PROGRAM MANAGER

Sharon Pazi Zea (She/Her), is an enrolled member of the Upper Sioux Community in Mni Sota. Sharon brings a wealth of experience grounded in tribal community and Dakota values. Most notably, she served as an elected tribal leader for Pejuhutaziz K’api Oyate – the Upper Sioux Community, advocating and voicing concerns for off-reservation tribal members and tribal veterans. She was also instrumental in creating the community’s own Tribal Historic Preservation Office. Previously, Sharon has served as the Executive Director for Dakota Wicohan, a Native-led non-profit dedicated to language and lifeways revitalization, and several years as a Manager in Information Technology for the Grand Traverse Band of Ottawa and Chippewa Indians. She made history in 2019, becoming the first elected Indigenous member of the Granite Falls City Council – a border town to her community. She continues in this role, advocating for Indigenous rights and views and serving as a Board Member for the local hospital. Sharon is pursuing her degree in Integrative Health and Wellbeing coaching.