Wil Numkena can finally step off the high wire.
For six years, Utah's director of Indian Affairs has performed a tricky balancing act - serving the state's interest while acting as advocate for fellow American Indians.Now it's time to go home.
On August 8, Numkena will leave his position, return to his native Arizona and become executive director of the Hopi Tribe's Board of Education.
"I feel comfortable that I have effected enough change that we have a fair state-tribal relationship in Utah," said Numkena.
The move will also allow Numkena to help manage the family farm on the Hopi reservation.
No successor has been named.
Numkena said ties between state leaders and Utah's eight tribes were shaky when he was appointed in 1991 by Governor Norm Bangerter.
"I made it a priority to foster a stronger state-tribal relationship through a lot of diplomatic work," he said.
Taxation and Indian sovereignty issues are never-ending hot spots demanding discussion and, sometimes, compromise. Bringing lawmakers and tribal leaders together was a vital step, said Numkena.
Numkena was active in instituting "Indian Day at the Legislature" - now a staple on Utah lawmakers' schedule. The day-long forum, said Numkena, has prompted talks that has satisfied state and tribal interests.
"In the past three years, approximately 17 pieces of legislation effecting Indian issues have passed," said Numkena.
A career educator, Numkena now looks forward to improving the schools for Hopi children. His first task will be consolidating curriculum for tribal classrooms.
Numkena also plans on releasing his fifth country music album sometime soon.