Jay Spaan is a passionate advocate for Tribal sovereignty and Self-Governance, serving as the Executive Director of the Self-Governance Communication & Education Tribal Consortium (SGCETC) since 2018. In this role, Jay has led a transformation of the organization into a hub for innovation and advocacy, forging strategic partnerships and creating impactful educational initiatives. Under his leadership, SGCETC launched the acclaimed original docuseries For Our People: Stories of Tribal Self-Governance and Sovereignty, showcasing powerful narratives that celebrate Tribal autonomy and innovation. Jay has also testified before Congress twice on issues related to Tribal Self-Governance authority, further underscoring his expertise and leadership in this field.

In addition to his role at SGCETC, Jay is an educator, sharing his knowledge as an Adjunct Faculty at Arizona State University. Since 2021, he has developed and taught courses on Tribal Self-Governance within the Sandra Day O’Connor School of Law, crafting curriculum that bridges legal theory and practical application.

Prior to his current roles, Jay honed his analytical and policy expertise during a 13-year tenure as a Senior Analyst at the U.S. Government Accountability Office. There, he led critical evaluations of federal programs, identified systemic challenges, and provided actionable recommendations to enhance government effectiveness. His work frequently informed Congressional oversight and decision-making, solidifying his reputation as a trusted voice in federal-tribal relations.

Jay’s academic credentials reflect his deep commitment to public service and Indian law. He holds a Master of Jurisprudence in Indian Law from the University of Tulsa and a Master of Public Affairs.