Amanda O'Connell

Amanda O'Connell , Council Member

Term: 2021 to 2024

707-954-6127
Amanda.oconnell@tolowa.com

Amanda O’Connell previously worked for the Nation as the Tribal Historic Preservation Officer (THPO) and Native American Graves Protection and Repatriation Act (NAGPRA) coordinator. In this role, Amanda worked daily on the protection of our sacred lands and natural resources as well as the return of our ancestors and cultural items from museums. Near and dear to Amanda’s heart are public health and wellness, economic diversification, re-establishment of tribal hunting/gathering/fishing rights, protection of cultural/natural resources and creating more opportunities for tribal youth. Along with being a steward of our cultural landscapes Amanda practices various art forms including traditional basket weaving, regalia and jewelry making, graphic design and painting. 

Boards and committees Amanda sit on include: Northern California Indian Development Council (NCIDC) Board, California Indian Basketweavers Association (CIBA) Board of Directors, TDN’s NAGPRA Committee, Head Start Parent Policy Council and Stewardship Task Force. Amanda descends from the villages of Xaawan’k’wvt, Yan’daak’vt, Chitxu, Daaghestlhts’a’ and Weylh-kwel. She is the daughter of Denise Richards-Padgette; granddaughter of Frank and Lestie (Norris) Richards; great-granddaughter of John and Ada (Lopez) Richards and William and Ella (Green) Norris. Amanda currently resides at K’aa-nvsh (Smith River town) with her partner Armando and their three children.