New Partnership to Expand Learning Opportunities for Tribal Judges
The Indian Nations Gaming & Governance Program (INGG) at the William S. Boyd School of Law at UNLV and the National Tribal Judicial Center (NTJC) at the National Judicial College (NJC) have announced a new partnership that will strengthen learning opportunities for tribal judges across Indian Country.
The new collaboration brings together two institutions dedicated to advancing tribal sovereignty through education, leadership development, and capacity building. By combining resources and expertise, the INGG Program and the NTJC aim to expand opportunities for professional development, policy engagement, and community-based learning tailored to the unique needs of tribal governments and courts.
“For more than two decades, the NJC, through the National Tribal Judicial Center, has proudly supported the education and professional development of thousands of tribal judges and court staff,” said Aviva Abramovsky, President and CEO of the National Judicial College. “Tribal judges, like all members of the judiciary, are vital to the strength and well-being of their communities and deserve access to the highest quality education delivered in meaningful and effective ways. We are excited to build this partnership and expand opportunities that empower tribal courts and the communities they serve.”
Together, the two organizations will focus on strengthening governance and justice systems in ways that honor the values and priorities of tribal nations. The partnership is designed not only to provide immediate training for tribal judiciaries, but also to build long-term capacity by equipping students and professionals with the tools to enhance their legal and leadership skills.
The partnership’s first step is creation of the National Tribal Judicial Academy, a first of its kind training academy for prospective and new tribal judges. The Academy will equip tribal members, including non-lawyers, to serve their tribe as a judge.
“We are excited about furthering our partnership with NJC and serving tribal judges through our INGG program,” Boyd Law Dean Leah Chan Grinvald said. “The National Tribal Judicial Academy will leverage both NJC’s and Boyd Law’s expertise in teaching.”
Danielle Finn, Director of the Indian Nations Gaming & Governance Program & Assistant Professor-in-Residence, stated, “The launch of the National Tribal Judicial Academy fills a need in Indian Country to provide experiential learning; hands on practical training for new and returning judges.”
Over the next year, the two groups will work together to create additional programs for tribal judges.
“The Indian Nations Gaming & Governance Program and the National Tribal Judicial Center share a deep commitment to promoting tribal sovereignty, effective leadership, and the rule of law in tribal communities,” said Alf W. Brandt, Director of Justice Solutions and Innovation at the NJC. “This partnership represents a significant step forward in supporting tribal institutions as they thrive in today’s legal and political landscape.”
The first National Tribal Judicial Academy will take place August 10-13, 2026 at the William S. Boyd School’s Thomas & Mack Moot Court Building.