Meet Valeria
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I am a proud member of the Confederated Tribes of Grand Ronde, a mother, educator, and advocate for Indigenous children and families.
Meet Valeria
Who I Am
I am a proud member of the Confederated Tribes of Grand Ronde, a mother, educator, and an advocate for Indigenous children and families.
When we invest in our people, we strengthen our nation.
For more than fifteen years, I have worked in education, policy, community development, and Tribal leadership. My work has included serving Tribal communities throughout Oregon, leading statewide initiatives, supporting Native families, and helping build systems that center culture, language, and community well-being.
Professional highlights:
- Master of Education in Early Childhood Education
- Certified Early Childhood Master Trainer
- Former Tribal Affairs Director, Oregon Department of Early Learning and Care
- Adjunct Instructor, Portland State University
- Chair, Grand Ronde Education Committee
- Founder, Native Mama Scholars
Why I’m Running
A Future Built for Seven Generations
Growing up in Grand Ronde taught me the importance of family, culture, and community responsibility. Today, many Tribal Members are asking for stronger communication, greater accountability, and long-term investments that will benefit our children and grandchildren.
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“We are not just planning for the next election cycle — we are building for the next seven generations.”
Strong leadership begins with listening.
I believe Tribal Members deserve:
- Integrity — Doing what is right for the majority, even when it is difficult
- Respect — Honoring our elders, our youth, our culture and one another
- Accountability — Following through on commitments and being present for the people we serve
- Service — Showing up, listening, and working every day for every Tribal member
Leadership is not about being heard. It is about hearing others.
Professional Journey
Career Highlights
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Current
Chair, Education Committee
Confederated Tribes of Grand Ronde
Supporting the Confederated Tribes of Grand Ronde Education Department and Advocating for Tribal youth and families.
Current
Founder
Native Mama Scholars
Supporting Native children and families by strengthening the people and systems that serve them.
Previous
Tribal Affairs Director
Oregon Dept. of Early Learning and Care
Led statewide initiatives serving Tribal Nations, their communities, families and children across Oregon.
Ongoing
Adjunct Instructor
Portland State University
Supporting current and future educators in understanding Indigenous approaches to family, child development, community well-being, and educational sovereignty
Certified
Early Childhood Master Trainer
State of Oregon
Certified trainer supporting educators across the state in high-quality, culturally grounded early childhood programming.
Education
Master of Education
Early Childhood Education
Graduate degree focused on early childhood policy, curriculum development, and family engagement.
Let’s Connect
I want to hear from you.
Whether you have a question, concern, or idea for our community’s future, I welcome the opportunity to connect.
Campaign Email
valeria.atanacio@gmail.com
Website
votevaleria.com
Follow the Campaign
Leadership through Listening. Action through Service.
© 2026 Valeria Atanacio. All rights reserved