WHO WE ARE | BOARD OF DIRECTORS | PILLARS
Acknowledgments
As an Indigenous-led non-profit, Flower Hill Institute (FHI) acknowledges and respects all elements and beings co-existing as both autonomous and interdependent entities of our universe.
Referencing honorable components inspired by Indigenous philosophy and prayer, FHI honors the dust, minerals, and forces that create the stars, galaxies, and cosmos of our universe and the Sun and Earth that cultivate soil, air, fire, and water—all fundamental to the nature and atmosphere of Earth.
The Institute also respects and acknowledges the presence of those who share and walk among Earth and its biodiverse ecosystems. From the smallest bacteria, microorganisms, insects, and pollinators to the plants, flowers, and animals that help nourish and sustain those environments and ecosystems globally.
Flower Hill Institute roots its commitments and thought processes in this acknowledgment to frame its services in a more culturally relevant and environmentally conscious lens and provides a holistic outlook on the impact of our work in Food & Agriculture, Cultural Preservation, Youth & STEM/ Traditional Ecological Knowledge (TEK) Education, and Climate Action.
Diversity, Equity, & Inclusion
Flower Hill Institute is an equal-opportunity employer and service provider. All FHI Board of Directors, affiliates, employees, and contractors are expected to uphold its commitment to enhancing the diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility of our services, in-line with FHI’s Code of Ethics and Commitment to Indigenous Peoples.
FHI recognizes and celebrates the diversity of all communities it serves and believes in building a team of professionals that contribute to our culture of respect, equity, and inclusion at our organization.
Commitment to Indigenous Peoples
Since its inception, Flower Hill Institute has sought to attribute its services and mission to Indigenous communities nationwide. Through our four pillars of work in Food & Agriculture, Cultural Preservation, Native Youth & STEM/ TEK Education, and Climate Action, we are committed to supporting strong, stable tribal communities as part of the ethos and founding purpose of Flower Hill Institute.
To read more about our Commitment to Indigenous Peoples, you can read our Board-approved letter of commitment here.
Flower Hill Institute's Staff Have Decades of Experience Serving Indian Country
ROGER FRAGUA (JEMEZ PUEBLO), CO-FOUNDER & EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
Roger Fragua has dedicated his professional career to the advancement and development of American Indian communities. Roger is currently the President of Cota Holdings, LLC, whose mission is to support Tribal community and economic development in the energy and telecommunication sectors. Roger has also worked with the Western Governors’ Association and the National Tribal Environmental Council on State and Tribal relations as it relates to environmental issues. The basis for Roger’s commitment to Indian Country began during his tenure as the Tribal Administrator for his own Pueblo, where he served as the Tribal political and business resource for several years.
BROPHY TOLEDO (JEMEZ PUEBLO), CO-FOUNDER & CULTURAL ADVISOR
Joseph Brophy Toledo has served the Pueblo of Jemez in various capacities for over 4 decades. He has worked with numerous indigenous youth groups, his is an adjunct instructor for IAIA, he has worked for as a creative consultant for Robert Mirabal Productions, he has served on the Native American Global Sports Committee, and has been instrumental in various international indigenous projects such as Pueblo Pathways Project and he has traveled to Mexico, Canada and Africa as a First Nations representative for Earth healing and environmental conferences and efforts.
NICOLE HENRIQUEZ MAST, DIRECTOR OF OPERATIONS
Nicole is a logistics expert with over 15 years of business operations experience working with local start-ups and small businesses. She has a keen interest in ensuring the core foundation and structure of an organization is sound and able to support its mission and goals. Having served in key management roles, she not only understands how fundamental operations are to the success of a business but also how to establish and align priorities to meet its growth targets.
BRYN FRAGUA (JEMEZ PUEBLO), SENIOR ADVISOR AND AGRICULTURAL DIRECTOR
Bryn Fragua uses his extensive background providing services to Tribal governments, Tribal associations, and Tribal communities in a variety of capacities. He brings valuable insight from Tribal community perspective and is knowledgeable on issues concerning environmental, energy, and social projects. Bryn takes pride in providing logical and efficient solutions with projects. Bryn has been recognized for his commitment to serving Tribal communities. From coordinating and leading health and fitness camps for Tribal community youth to assisting with the execution and management of FEMA projects on Tribal lands. Bryn is a member of the Pueblo of Jemez, and a proud father of two happy children. Bryn farms growing traditional crops from his community, encourages and practices cultural preservation. He also enjoys history with a focus in southwestern archaeology and anthropology. He is also an advocate for many outdoor hobbies such as hiking, fishing, and wilderness foraging.
SHAUNDIN JONES (DINÉ), SOCIAL MEDIA COORDINATOR
Shaundin Jones is a graphic designer and digital illustrator, with a background in film and media production, digital marketing, and community organizing. He has experience in publicity management and diversity outreach and dedicates his early career to supporting Indigenous-led projects through social media marketing and design. Shaundin sees the potential in social media communications for more Indigenous representation, awareness, and education on issues facing Indigenous communities globally, and recently received his B.A. in Film and Media Studies from Columbia University where he spent his time crafting his creative expertise in visual art, and digital media and analytics.