<\/p>\n
DeAnne House was re-elected to the Ute Mountain Ute Tribal Council during an election on Friday in Towaoc.<\/p>\n
House earned 113 votes out of 415 cast. She came out ahead of challengers Selwyn Whiteskunk (83 votes), Lyndreth Wall (58 votes), Fernessa Dutchie Richards (55 votes), Mark Wing (53 votes), Davis Wing (18 votes) and Marcianne Wing (17 votes).<\/p>\n
\u201cThe campaign went well, and I had a lot of support,\u201d House said after the results came in. \u201cI thank everyone who came out and participated in the election.\u201d<\/p>\n
House is related to former tribal leaders Ernest House Sr. and Chief Jack House, the tribe\u2019s last traditional leader.<\/p>\n
House holds two college degrees, one in geology from the University of Colorado, and one in psychology. She was recently the tribe\u2019s contract and grant specialist and has worked as an addiction counselor.<\/p>\n
In an interview with The Journal, House said that as a tribal leader she will continue to advocate for the people. In her first term, she worked on tribal energy resources, including oil and gas and hydropower, and supported youth programs.<\/p>\n
Promoting more housing and education for the next generation are two of the goals she\u2019s set for her next term.<\/p>\n
\u201cYouth need to be taught the issues facing our tribe so they can be effective future leaders,\u201d she said.<\/p>\n
For example, they need to understand the importance of getting tribally owned water held in Lake Nighthorse delivered to the reservation, and that developing energy resources are essential for the tribe\u2019s finances, House said.<\/p>\n
\u201cOur youths need knowledge to lead. I\u2019ve had to use all of my skills and education to govern and gain the trust of the people.\u201d<\/p>\n
Her business sense and education background have been a benefit for the tribe, said supporter Karen Box.<\/p>\n
\u201cShe\u2019s smart and understands finances,\u201d she said. \u201cShe always has the people in mind, and brings out the tribe\u2019s best potential.\u201d<\/p>\n
All six tribal council seats are held by women. They are Juanita Plentyholes, Colleen Cuthair, Elaine Cantsee, Marissa Box, Prisllena Rabbit, and DeAnne House. Harold Cuthair is the tribal chairman.<\/p>\n