Sept. 21 | The Navajo Post

Sherrick Roanhorse, Former Chief of Staff for Navajo Nation President Ben Shelly, (thenavajopost/Sam Tsosie)

With the exit of former Chief of Staff of the Navajo Nation, Sherrick Roanhorse speculation rises throughout the Capitol of who may lead the office of the President next. The Navajo Times reported, Business owner Gabriel Freeland, but Window Rock insiders say it’s Phil Kinclecheenie a Vietnam Veteran.

Sherrick Roanhorse, has lead the Navajo Nation Executive Branch since Jan. 2011, in a interview with the Navajo Post back in Feb, Mr. Roanhorse  said “What drives me every day is that things will be better at home. We have our land, ceremonies, language and way of life. We have a lot to be grateful for.”

Roanhorse also played a major role in the election of President Ben Shelly, he is also the youngest Chief of Staff to lead the office of the President.

About the Man who Lead the Shelly Administration

Sherrick was born in Gallup, NM,  1981.  He grew up in Steamboat and attended Ganado Elementary School. He graduated from Navajo Preparatory School in 1999. While attending Navajo Prep, his interest in politics exploded.  “I became class president. I was the Native Club co-president, and co-editor   for the school paper.  I also participated in Native America Leadership, a project funded by Woodrow Wilson, which helps turn youth into future leaders”.

After graduating high school, Sherrick attended Northern Arizona University in Flagstaff, AZ. for one year.  He wasn’t sure what he wanted to study.  He left NAU and took some classes at Dine College, where was active in the student government. His class list included Navajo Culture and Navajo Government.   He transferred to the University of New Mexico and graduated in 2006 with a double major in Political Science and English.  He says while attending UNM, living in Albuquerque presented its challenges.  “Money, rent and studies were my biggest concerns.”