Award Recognizes a Lifetime of Leadership, Service and Commitment to Native Communities
MASHANTUCKET, CT, October 2, 2026 — Command Holdings, a Pequot Company, announced today that Marilynn “Lynn” Malerba, former Treasurer of the United States and Chief of the Mohegan Tribe, will receive the Seven Generation Award at BizConn Alliance 2026.
The Seven Generation Award honors an individual whose lifetime of leadership and service has strengthened Native communities, advanced opportunity, and helped create a lasting foundation for the future. Rooted in the traditional principle that decisions made today can impact the next seven generations, the award recognizes leaders who use their influence to open doors, build opportunity and leave a meaningful legacy for those who follow.
Malerba made history as the first Native American to serve as Treasurer of the United States, a position she held from 2022 to 2024. As Treasurer, she brought a Tribal perspective to the U.S. Department of the Treasury and became a national voice for Native economic development and investment.
During her tenure, Malerba helped establish the Treasury Department’s Office of Tribal and Native Affairs, creating a dedicated office focused on strengthening the department’s engagement with Tribal Nations. She also played a significant role in advancing federal economic development initiatives and investments benefiting Tribal communities and Native entrepreneurs.
As the lifetime Chief of the Mohegan Tribe, Malerba has dedicated her career to strengthening her Tribal community and advancing opportunities for Native people. She was the Mohegan Tribe’s first female Chief and previously served in a number of Tribal leadership positions, including chair of the Mohegan Tribal Council and executive director of health and human services. Before entering Tribal government, she worked as a critical care nurse.
“Lynn Malerba’s leadership has had an impact far beyond her own community,” said Angelina Casanova, Chairwoman of the Board of Command Holdings. “She has opened doors that had never been opened before and created greater visibility and opportunity for Tribal Nations and Native people. Her career reflects the very spirit of the Seven Generation Award, leadership rooted in service, responsibility and a commitment to those who will come after us. We are honored to recognize Lynn.”
Malerba will receive the award during BizConn Alliance 2026, taking place October 6–8 on the Reservation of the Mashantucket Pequot Tribal Nation in Mashantucket, Connecticut.
Hosted by Command Holdings, BizConn Alliance brings together Tribal enterprises, federal agencies, government contractors, prime contractors, small and emerging businesses, manufacturers and industry leaders from across the country for three days of business development, education, networking and collaboration.
The 2026 conference features a distinguished lineup of government, Tribal and business leaders, including U.S. Senator Richard Blumenthal, U.S. Treasurer Brandon Beach, Mashantucket Pequot Tribal Nation Chairman Rodney Butler, SBA representative John Klein, GSA Tribal Liaison Julie Ramey, and leaders from the Army and Navy Small Business Programs.
The conference will also feature keynote speakers Shiyazh Pete, the first member of the Navajo Nation to sign an NFL contract, and Tonya Alston, a nationally recognized growth strategist and speaker.
BizConn Alliance was created to strengthen relationships among industry and government agencies, while highlighting the important role Tribal Nations play in the nation’s business and economic landscape. Through keynote presentations, panels, one-on-one connections and networking opportunities, the conference provides a platform for leaders to exchange ideas, build relationships and identify new opportunities for collaboration.
About BizConn Alliance
BizConn Alliance is a conference dedicated to strengthening relationships between businesses, government agencies, and industry partners. Hosted at the Mashantucket Pequot Tribal Nation Reservation, the event brings together leaders from across sectors to foster collaboration, share insights, and advance opportunities that support economic sovereignty and growth. Through engaging panels, featured sessions, and meaningful networking, BizConn Alliance highlights the vital role Tribal Nations play in shaping the business landscape today and into the future. www.bizconnalliance.com
About Command Holdings, a Pequot Company
Command Holdings is a federally chartered Section 17 holding company owned by the Mashantucket Pequot Tribal Nation. Established in 2017, it has four operating groups. With expertise in government, health, facilities, and technology, Command Holdings provides value-driven client solutions and excellent service delivery. The company’s seven generation strategy is grounded in growing the tribe’s economy and providing opportunities for generations to come. For more information, visit www.commandholdingspqt.com.
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