The Native American 40 Under 40 award honors Indigenous leaders under the age of 40 from across the United States who are carrying forward the work of their people through leadership, service and commitment to community. Recipients are nominated by their peers and selected for the impact they are making today and the responsibility they carry for future generations.
Mitchell currently serves as Treasurer on the Muckleshoot Tribal Council. In this role, she participates in Tribal governance, actively fighting for and protecting Tribal sovereignty, managing resources and continuously paving the way for our future generations.
Elected to Tribal Council at the age of 26 and sworn in at 27, Mitchell has continued to serve her people in multiple leadership roles. Her service includes time as Vice Chair during the early development of the Tribe’s Economic Development Branch, known today as the Muckleshoot Development Corporation. She has also served on the Native American Rights Fund Board of Directors, sits on Washington State’s MMIW/P Task Force and is a champion for the Indian Child Welfare Act (ICWA). Mitchell is also the first Muckleshoot Tribal Member to become a bar-certified attorney.
Mitchell said the recognition is both personal and humbling.
“It is such an honor to be recognized by my peers through the nomination and to be selected by other Native leaders I look up to,” Mitchell said. “Personally, I wish I could share this moment with loved ones who have gone on, because they have truly been my inspiration throughout the years. Professionally, it feels like I still have more work to do before being awarded but am blessed that others see the work I have put in.”
She also shared advice for those stepping into leadership roles.
“Always look at the whole forest when trying to help your people,” Mitchell said. “Lead with a leadership mindset that uplifts others, instead of a political mindset that you know best. Stay humble and keep your loved ones close.”
Recipients of the 40 Under 40 award will be honored this coming March during the Reservation Economic Summit, a national gathering focused on economic development and Indigenous leadership.
Mitchell’s recognition reflects the strength of Muckleshoot leadership and the responsibility carried by those who step forward to serve. The Muckleshoot Indian Tribe and community congratulate Anita Mitchell on this well-earned achievement.
The Native American 40 Under 40 award honors Indigenous leaders under the age of 40 from across the United States who are carrying forward the work of their people through leadership, service and commitment to community.
On Saturday, Jan. 24, the Muckleshoot Indian Tribe opened the Muckleshoot Athletic Center, marking a major investment in training, skill development and long-term athletic opportunity for Muckleshoot people and future generations.
On Jan. 19, the 2026 Muckleshoot Indian Tribe held its annual elections with the winning results as follows: Virginia Cross: 408; Jessica Garcia: 369; Elieen Richardson: 311. Thank you all who participated in this year’s election.
Tacoma City Ballet donated 250 tickets on December 12, to members of the Muckleshoot Tribal community offering families and youth the opportunity to experience ballet and the performing arts together.
The Muckleshoot Messenger is a Tribal publication created by the Muckleshoot Office of Media Services. Tribal community members and Tribal employees are welcome to submit items to the newspaper such as news, calendar items, photos, poems, and artwork.
Official Government Website for the Muckleshoot Indian Tribe
© Muckleshoot Indian Tribe 2026
