MEET CHRIS
Chris Key
40+ Years of Leadership.
A Lifetime of Service.
Christopher Key is a proud member of the San Carlos Apache Tribe, a lifelong advocate for Native communities, entrepreneur, and leader dedicated to creating opportunities for tribal families. Known simply as Chris, he was raised on the San Carlos Apache Reservation, where he learned from an early age that leadership begins with service. Those values have guided him throughout a distinguished career spanning more than 40 years in engineering, business, government, and community development.
After earning his undergraduate degree from Northern Arizona University, Chris continued his education in engineering and business, pursuing graduate studies in Electrical Engineering and Business Administration at UCLA. His professional career includes leadership roles with NASA, higher education, private industry, and national initiatives focused on expanding opportunities for Native Americans in science, technology, education, and workforce development.
Chris is the Founder and CEO of True North Diversified, where he partners with tribal communities to advance economic development, education, healthcare, and strategic planning. He also founded Hawu Medical Transit, improving access to non-emergency medical transportation for Native communities, and Indigenous Media Group, helping tribes and Native organizations strengthen their communications and tell their stories with authenticity and purpose.
As co-founder of Hesperus, a nonprofit organization serving Native American and Alaska Native veterans and tribal youth, Chris has helped develop programs that expand educational opportunities, prepare future leaders, and connect Native communities with careers in technology, entrepreneurship, and public service.
Throughout his career, Chris has remained committed to one mission: helping tribal communities thrive while honoring the traditions, culture, and values that define the Apache people. He believes strong leadership means listening first, bringing people together, making thoughtful decisions, and always putting the community above personal interests.
Today, Chris is asking for the opportunity to continue that lifetime of service by helping lead the San Carlos Apache Tribe toward a future of greater opportunity, stronger families, responsible economic growth, and lasting prosperity for generations to come.
40+ Years of Leadership
Entrepreneur, Advocate & Community Builder
Committed to Service. Focused on Our Future.
Community Impact
Girls Who Game
Chris's relationships with tribal communities helped bring the first Girls Who Game program on Native land in the U.S. to San Carlos Middle School in 2022 — now serving 140+ students across eight chapters.
Eagle Feather Ceremonies
As an elder, Chris has provided traditional blessings at Hesperus's Eagle Feather Ceremonies at West Point and the U.S. Air Force Academy, honoring Native cadets as they commission as officers.
EB-NAV
Under Chris's co-leadership, Hesperus launched the Entrepreneurship Bootcamp for Native American Veterans, equipping Native veteran entrepreneurs with mentorship and tools to build lasting businesses.
Hesperus Forums
Chris has spoken at multiple Hesperus Forums in Washington, D.C., addressing the challenges facing tribal communities nationwide and the policy solutions needed to support them.
Support the campaign
Our Nation has the resources, talent, and sovereignty to build a stronger future, but it takes all of us to make that vision reality. Whether you can give financially, volunteer your time, or lend your skills, every contribution helps carry this movement to every corner of San Carlos Apache Nation.