Escondido, CA – December 8, 2015: The CILS Board of Trustees, elected Mark Romero, a member and past Chairman of the Mesa Grande Band of Mission Indians, as its new Chairman and Victorio Shaw, a member of the Hoopa Valley Tribe and currently the California Tribal College Project Strategist for Yocha Dehe Wintun Nation as its new Vice Chairman.

“We are pleased and honored to have Mark’s and Victorio’s continued leadership and support on the CILS Board,” said Dorothy Alther, Executive Director of CILS. “The dedication and commitment of such prominent members of California Indian Country enable CILS to continue to serve all California Indian communities.”

The Board also seated two new Board members, Joe Ayala and Jessica Warner. Mr. Ayala is the Principal Deputy Legislative Counsel for the State of California, and comes to the Board as a State Bar representative. Ms. Warne, Principal of the Law Offices of Jessica Warne and former CILS law clerk, takes her seat as a community representative.

The members of the Board of Trustees play an integral role in ensuring the long-term sustainability and growth of CILS. For a full Board of Trustees list and additional information about CILS, visit www.calindian.org.

About CILS:
California Indian Legal Services is one of the oldest non-profit law firms in the country and largest in California that is devoted exclusively to the causes of Native American rights. CILS maintains four offices statewide and has been in operation for 48 years. CILS represents California Tribes, tribal organizations, and low-income individuals on matters of Indian law. For more information, please visit www.calindian.org.