For LaWanda Green, serving on the United Indian Health Services (UIHS) Board of Directors is part of a family legacy of service. Both her grandmother, Betty Green, and father, John Green, served for many years on the board, helping establish a tradition that LaWanda proudly continues today.

Nearly 10 years ago, however, LaWanda hadn’t planned on following that path. Encouraged by her parents to run as an Area 1 Delegate, she remembers finding herself writing her letter of candidacy just a few minutes before the deadline.

“It’s funny because they told me I was going to do it, I said no, and then I found myself at 4:30 p.m. on a Friday, writing my letter of candidacy that was due at 5:00 p.m.”

Today, LaWanda serves as chairperson of the UIHS Board of Directors and is in her third year of a possible six-year term as Chairperson. Her commitment to American Indian communities extends beyond UIHS through her service with CRIHB, the National Indian Health Board, and the Elk Valley Rancheria Tribal Council.

Especially meaningful to LaWanda is the opportunity to serve alongside her father on both the Elk Valley Rancheria Tribal Council and UIHS Board, continuing their family’s tradition of working on behalf of their community.

For LaWanda, that commitment is also personal. She regularly helps community members navigate UIHS services and paperwork. “Come in, sit down with me, and I will help you step by step,” she tells those who need assistance.

A mother of six and grandmother of two, LaWanda is also an avid reader who enjoys playing board games.

Looking toward the future, LaWanda is proud of UIHS and its commitment to rural communities. “I’m proud of the work we do to bring quality healthcare to our rural areas, including specialty care like cardiology and oncology, instead of sending our clients six hours away.”

For LaWanda, leadership remains rooted in family, community, and ensuring American Indian people have access to the care and resources they need.