October 29, 2026
Looking forward to assisting her community.
By Valerie Harrington-Wind, Chief Communications Officer, Legislative Branch
Vanessa Gibbs brings years of experience serving Band members, a commitment to learning, and strong community connections to her new role as District Ill Legislative Aide.
Originally from Aazhoomog/Hinckley, Vanessa previously served as the Licensing Agent and Family Tree Specialist for District I|I. She began working in the Department of Natural Resources in 2009, gaining valuable knowledge about the Band's 1837 Treaty rights to hunt and gather within the ceded territory. As Family Tree Specialist, she helped answer lineage questions and prepared family tree spreadsheets for various departments.
Her service also includes a seat on the Housing Board, where her term continues through 2030.
In her new position, Vanessa looks forward to being a resource for community members and having more opportunities to connect with people. She is eager to support the District I|l Representative with ideas and activities that positively impact the district while deepening her understanding of tribal government.
"I am looking forward to assisting our DIll Representative with any ideas or activities that will positively impact our district," Vanessa shared.
Education is another important part of Vanessa's journey. She studied at Pine Technical College in 2006 and Fond du Lac Tribal and Community College in 2009-2010. In 2025, she began taking online courses through Southern New Hampshire University, where she is pursuing a Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology. She is on track to graduate in 2028.
Outside of work and school, family is a big part of Vanessa's life. She has five adult children: Reuben, Cedric, Cedar, Caiarah, and Cyliss; and two granddaughters, Ailauna and Athena.
Her significant other is George. Her parents are Diane and the late Oliver, and her sisters are Michelle, Michela, and the late Deloris. Her family also includes 14 weh'ehs and a grand-pup named Gage.
When she has free time, Vanessa enjoys playing softball during the spring and summer. Her passion, however, is shooting pool, and she plays every chance she gets.
Band members may also be surprised to learn that Vanessa describes herself as "an undercover nerd" who loves to read. When asked about unique talents, she offered a modest response: "I'm just a regular ol' person."
With her years of service and enthusiasm for connecting with the community, Vanessa looks forward to helping District Ill members and supporting the work of the Legislative Branch.
Please join the Legislative Branch in welcoming Vanessa to her new role.
