Roselyn Tso, Navajo Nation member
Rear Adm. Michael D. Weahkee, IHS principal deputy director, made the announcement on July 29, during the IHS Direct Service Tribes Advisory Committee 4th quarterly meeting in Albuquerque, where President Nez and Navajo Department of Health Executive Director Dr. Jill Jim are meeting with other tribes and IHS officials.
Tso has recently served as director for the IHS Office of Direct Service and Contracting Tribes, where she directed a national program and was responsible for a wide range of agency functions that are critical to the working partnership between the IHS and federally recognized tribes. As Navajo Area director, she will be responsible for providing leadership in the administration of a comprehensive federal, tribal, and urban Indian health care system.
“We congratulate Roselyn Tso on her appointment and we look forward to working with her to address the health needs of the Navajo people. We are very proud to have [one] of our own serve in this position. On behalf of the Navajo Nation, we also thank Capt. Brian Johnson for serving as the acting director for the Navajo Area IHS for the past three years,” said Nez.
With more than 35 years of service to IHS, Tso brings expertise in policy development and technical assistance concerning Title I Indian Self-Determination contracting.
“I’m proud to lead the IHS Navajo Area and I’m excited about the opportunity to continue working with our health care partners to provide quality, comprehensive health care for the patients we serve.” Tso said.
Vice President Myron Lizer also stated that he looks forward to building a positive working relationship with Tso and her office to advance the healthcare initiatives to help Navajo communities.
“We have many health needs on the Navajo Nation and we are confident that with the appointment of Roselyn Tso, we can create solutions and partnerships that will benefit the Navajo people for many years,” said Lizer.
Tso holds a Bachelor of Arts in interdisciplinary studies from Marylhurst University in Portland, Ore., and a master’s degree in organizational management from the University of Phoenix, Portland, Ore.
