MCA ANNOUNCES HIRING OF NEW EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
The Mohawk Council of Akwesasne (MCA) is proud to announce the appointment of Mose A. Herne, Akwesasronon, as the new Executive Director, effective May 6, 2024. Mose’s community roots and leadership background made him the ideal choice after a rigorous selection process that began in November 2023.
The Executive Director oversees the daily operations of the organization, offering strategic guidance to staff, enhancing community and external relationships, aiding in governance implementation, managing risk, and fostering employee satisfaction. Additionally, the Executive Director is tasked with ensuring the achievement of both short and long-term goals for the organization and the community.
Mose A. Herne’s educational journey includes earning a Bachelor of Science degree from Clarkson University, majoring in Psychology with a minor in Biology, graduating with honors. He then pursued further studies, earning a Master of Science degree in Neuroscience from Brandeis University and a Master of Public Health degree in environmental health sciences from the Boston University School of Public Health.
With a distinguished educational background and career, Mose will bring a wealth of experience and expertise to the position and the organization. He has served in various capacities, including most recently as the Director of the Division of Planning, Evaluation, and Research at the Indian Health Service Headquarters in Rockville, MD. He also served as Chief Executive Officer of the Hopi Health Care Center in Polacca, AZ, deputy director of the Division of Behavioral Health, and senior advisor to the Tribal Health Research Office at the National Institutes of Health. Mose has been instrumental in leading public health emergency responses and played key roles in achieving certifications and accreditations from reputable health organizations, demonstrating his commitment to excellence in healthcare delivery.
Mose’s dedication to service extends beyond his professional roles; he has been actively involved in a wide range of national initiatives, including co-chair of the White House National Science and Technology Council, Subcommittee on Indigenous Knowledge; member of the Government Relations Committee of the American Indian Science and Engineering Society; and numerous national initiatives on behavioral health. Mose served on the faculty of Boston University and Fitchburg State College and has published several peer-reviewed papers on intentional injuries, traditional ecological knowledge, and infectious disease epidemiology.
Grand Chief Abram Benedict noted, “We eagerly welcome Mose Herne to the Mohawk Council of Akwesasne. As an Akwesasronon, Mose brings an understanding and commitment to our unique community. With his extensive experience and dedication, we are confident in his ability to lead us forward.”
Please join us in extending a warm welcome to Mose A. Herne as he begins the role of Executive Director at the MCA!