NEW ERA OF LEADERSHIP: THREE WOMEN NOW SERVE ON BAND ASSEMBLY FOR THE FIRST TIME.
Mille Lacs Band of Ojibwe Legislative Branch District III Representative Michelle Pomerleau, District II Representative Raina Killspotted, District I Representative Caroyln Beaulieu, and Secretary-Treasurer Sheldon Boyd. Photo by Vivian LaMoore.
July 30, 2026
By Vivian LaMoore, Inaajimowin Editor
Newly elected Mille Lacs Band officials were sworn into office July 14, beginning new terms that include a historic first for the Band Assembly: all three District Representatives are now women. Newly elected District Il Representative Raina Killspotted and District Ill Representative Michelle Pomerleau joined incumbent District I Representative Carolyn Beaulieu, whose term continues through 2028. Secretary/Treasurer Sheldon Boyd and School Board Member Richard Dunkley were also sworn in following their re-election. Their four-year terms run from 2026 to 2030.
Legislative Affairs Director Brianna Boyd opened the ceremony by recognizing the 962 Band members who cast ballots in the election. "That means 962 people took the time to show up, make their voices heard, and shape the future of the Band. That matters."
She went on to thank the Election Board and the staff who dedicated countless hours to ensure the election was fair, transparent, and successful. "The people of the Mille| Lacs Band have spoken and today we recognize put our trust in those elected to serve."
Secretary/Treasurer Sheldon Boyd thanked current and former Legislative Branch staff before reflecting on the stewardship entrusted to his office. He said the position carries two primary responsibilities: serving as Speaker of the Band Assembly in support of the District Representatives and safeguarding the Band's treasury. Boyd said his role is to provide elected leaders with a clear financial picture so they can make informed decisions for the Band.
District || Representative Raina Killspotted reflected on the leaders who served before her, thanking past District II Representatives for their advocacy on behalf of the East Lake community and she hopes to build on their work. She pledged to represent both East Lake and the broader Mille Lacs Band while working collaboratively with fellow Representatives Michelle Pomerleau and Carolyn Beaulieu under the leadership of Secretary/Treasurer Sheldon Boyd.
"I will look out for the interests of all the Band members on the Reservation and do my best to move us forward," Killspot-ted said. 'Chi-miigwech to everybody who participated, and I look forward to working hard for you."
District Ill Representative Michelle Pomerleau said serving the Mille Lacs Band is "a great honor' and described the oath of office as a sacred commitment to uphold Band law and protect the Band's sovereignty. She pledged to fight for families and protect Elders before closing with a simple call to action. "Let's get to work," Pomerleau said.
School Board Member Richard Dunkley said his commitment to education was shaped by his grandparents, who, despite being forced to attend boarding schools, believed education was essential for future generations. He encouraged families to make education a priority and said he remains committed to ensuring Band children have every opportunity to succeed.
"My grandparents knew that we needed education to survive," Dunkley said. "I believe that is very important, and I will work very hard to make sure our kids have the best chance.”
MEET NEW DISTRICT REPRESENTATIVES
District II Representative Raina Killspotted
Representative Raina Killspotted brings more than 20 years of service to the Mille Lacs Band, with experience in the Departments of Education, Administration, Community Development, Health and Human Services, and Corporate Ventures. Prior to her election, she served as Commissioner of Education, a role that reflected years of dedication to strengthening opportunities for Band members.
A lifelong learner and advocate for education, Killspotted is passionate about expanding educational opportunities for youth, preserving Anishinaabe language and culture, and supporting economic development that honors the Band's sovereignty. She is also committed to a ceremonial way of life and encourages younger generations to embrace their cultural identity as a foundation for lifelong success.
As District I| Representative, Killspotted is committed to listening to community members, leading with transparency, and working collaboratively with the Executive and Judicial branches to strengthen services for all Band members. Her priorities include supporting Elders, expanding youth programming, advocating for equitable access to Band services, and ensuring the programs and resources available through the Mille Lacs Band are accessible to everyone. She remains dedicated to being a strong advocate for the District Il community and the future of the Mille Lacs Band.
District III Representative Michelle Pomerleau
Michelle (Shelly) Pomerleau proudly serves as the District III Representative for the Mille Lacs Band of Ojibwe. A lifelong advocate for her community, Shelly brings nearly 20 years of leadership, public service, and dedication to improving the lives of Band members.
Throughout her career, Shelly has served in numerous roles that have strengthened her understanding of the needs, challenges, and opportunities facing the Mille Lacs Band. Her experience includes serving as the District III Program Administrator for ten years, Legislative Aide, District III Senior Living Manager, Case Manager for Aanjibimaadizing, Gaming Regulatory Authority Board Member for eight years, and Guardian Ad Litem for five years. Prior to her election, she served as Executive Director of the Office of Gaming Regulation and Compliance.
These diverse leadership experiences have allowed Shelly to work closely with Elders, families, youth, and community members across District III. Her work has focused on strengthening programs, supporting economic stability, and advocating for resources that help Band members thrive.
As District Ill Representative, Shelly is committed to leading with integrity, transparency, and accountability. She believes in listening to community voices, fostering open communication, and ensuring that the priorities of District Ill families remain at the forefront of decision-making.
Shelly is dedicated to protecting the sovereignty and treaty rights of the Mille Lacs Band while advancing opportunities that promote strong families, healthy communities, quality housing, education, and economic prosperity. She is passionate about preserving Anishinaabe values and traditions while helping build a strong future for generations to come.