Among her many important functions, Treasurer Malerba will oversee the newly established Office of Tribal and Native Affairs within the Department of the Treasury, which will serve as the hub for tribal policy and house staff directly dedicated to communication with tribal nations and other key Indian Country stakeholders. Treasury previously created a tribal team in 2021 as part of its efforts to develop the department’s growing relationship with tribal nations and to help administer $30 billion in programs directed towards Indian Country through the American Rescue Plan. Treasurer Malerba’s signature also will now appear on U.S. currency.
In a press release announcing her appointment, which no longer needs to be confirmed by the U.S. Senate, Treasurer Malerba stated, “I am honored and humbled by Secretary (Janet) Yellen and the Biden Administration’s commitment to ensuring that all voices are heard by Treasury as we work together to create an equitable and just society…It is especially important that our Native voices are respected. This appointment underscores this Administration’s commitment to doing just that. I am excited to serve our communities as Treasurer and for the work ahead.”
“The Native CDFI Network welcomes and celebrates this latest appointment as yet another testament to the Biden Administration’s commitment to working in partnership with Indian Country to support the growth of vibrant tribal economies on tribal terms,” said NCN Interim Executive Director and Board Chair Pete Upton. “NCN looks forward to working closely with Treasurer Malerba and her team to strengthen and expand the role of Native CDFIs in fostering that growth.”