The Southern Ute Indian Tribe welcomed Chairman, Melvin J. Baker and Council Member, Marty Pinnecoose during the Inauguration Ceremony this morning at Sky Ute Casino Resort. Surrounded by family, tribal members, and visiting dignitaries, the ceremony marked a momentous occasion for the Tribe as it embraced Council Member Pinnecoose for his first term and Chairman Baker for his second term as Chairman.

Chairman Melvin J. Baker, a dedicated advocate for tribal sovereignty, brings a wealth of experience to his new term. Baker previously served four terms on Tribal Council. With a commitment to preserving and enhancing the resources, tradition, and identity of the Pino Nuuchiu, Chairman Baker is poised to lead the Tribe with vision and resilience. “Your faith in my leadership is truly inspiring. I am deeply grateful for your unwavering support and the privilege of serving as Chairman for another term,” Baker said.

Council Member Marty Pinnecoose looks forward to beginning to his first term on Tribal Council. Pinnecoose had a multi-faceted career that included working as a journeyman ironworker, actor, teacher, role model, businessman. “I would like to thank the tribal membership for their vote of confidence, I am eager to learn, to listen, and to grow alongside you. This is not my seat alone, it is a shared space built on trust and collaboration,” Pinnecoose said.

Chairman Baker has selected Lorelei Cloud to serve as his Vice Chairman. The appointment for the Executive Office will be announced in the coming days.

For more information, please contact Tribal Council Affairs at 970-563-2319.