Bartholomew “Bart” Stevens

Bartholomew “Bart” Steven's heritage reflects the diverse cultures and histories of several Indian tribes. He is an enrolled member of the San Carlos Apache Tribe with lineage in the Piipaash (Maricopa Tribe) of the Gila River Indian Community and maternal ancestry from the Shoshone-Bannock Tribes of Idaho and the Ute Tribe in Utah. His ancestry is further enriched with deep connections to the traditional community, each with its distinct languages, ceremonies, and histories. Bart's multifaceted identity is a living testament to these communities' enduring spirit and legacy.

Mr. Stevens' extensive background in educational leadership and his commitment to improving academic performance in tribal education programs have been a cornerstone of his career. His efforts as a principal in the public school system, particularly within the Uintah School District, have been instrumental in advancing the goals of the No Child Left Behind Act. This dedication to education and development has undoubtedly equipped him with the experience and insight necessary for his role in the Department of Interior's Bureau of Indian Education. There, he has advocated for and supported the educational needs of Native American communities, building on his previous work to foster environments where students can thrive academically and culturally. His contributions reflect a deep understanding of the challenges and opportunities within tribal education, emphasizing the importance of tailored educational strategies that respect and incorporate tribal heritage and values.

Mr. Stevens began his federal career in July 2006 with the Department of the Interior's Bureau of Indian Education is evidence of his dedication and leadership in the field of education. Starting as an Education Line Officer, he quickly demonstrated his capabilities by leading a BIE line office serving 12 schools in Albuquerque, New Mexico. His rapid rise to the Senior Executive Service, first in a detailed capacity in August 2007 as Deputy Director of School Operations allowed him to oversee a vast network of 183 schools nationwide, showcasing his ability to manage and support a large-scale educational system. His simultaneous assumption of duties for the three Associate Deputy Directors - East, West, and Navajo, further highlights his versatility and commitment to ensuring quality education for Native American communities. Mr. Stevens' contributions have undoubtedly had a significant impact on the BIE and the many students and educators it serves.

Mr. Stevens' career trajectory within the Bureau of Indian Education (BIE) and the Bureau of Indian Affairs (BIA) reflects a deep commitment to understanding and fulfilling the trust responsibilities inherent in these roles. His initial appointment as the BIE Deputy Director of School Operations by the Department of the Interior (DOI) Executive Resource Board and the Office of Personnel Management in January 2009 marked the beginning of a significant tenure. In 2010, he temporarily filled the role of Director BIE, demonstrating his adaptability and leadership.

His decision in November 2014 to step down from his Senior Executive Service (SES) position to serve as the Superintendent of the BIA Uintah and Ouray Agency underscored his dedication to gaining firsthand experience at the ground level. This move was particularly noteworthy as it showed a willingness to relinquish prestigious SES status to better serve the community's needs. In January 2017, his expertise was once again recognized when he was called back to Washington, DC, to reassume his duties as the Deputy Director of School Operations, indicating the high regard in which his leadership and operational skills are held.

In August 2018, Mr. Stevens returned to Senior Executive Service (SES) status at the Bureau of Indian Affairs (BIA) as Regional Director for the Navajo Region in Gallup, New Mexico, a significant leadership position within the BIA. The role involves overseeing a vast array of programs and services across the Navajo Nation, which is structured into 110 chapters and governed by 25 Council Delegates. These delegates play a crucial role in addressing the federal program delivery alongside the BIA to the Navajo Nation's three branches of government: Executive, Judicial, and Legislative. The BIA's mission in the Navajo Region includes enhancing the quality of life, promoting economic opportunity, and protecting and improving the trust assets of American Indians, Indian tribes, and Alaska Natives. The Regional Director's responsibilities are critical in upholding the government-to-government relationship with the tribes and fulfilling the Federal government's trust responsibilities.

In July 2021, Mr. Stevens’ appointment as the Deputy Bureau Director of Field Operations marked a significant milestone in his career, reflecting his extensive expertise and commitment to public service. With a robust educational background from Utah State University and the University of Utah, his academic achievements laid a strong foundation for his leadership role. Overseeing the Bureau of Indian Affairs field operations in 12 regions and 84 agencies across the United States, he is responsible for a substantial segment of the Bureau of Indian Affairs at the national level. His role is pivotal in not only leading and directing twelve senior executives but also shaping policies and initiatives that impact a wide range of programs, ensuring they meet the diverse needs of the tribal communities they serve. Mr. Stevens' journey exemplifies the blend of academic excellence and dedicated public service, contributing to the betterment of opportunities and outcomes for many.

Mr. Stevens holds a bachelor’s degree and a master’s degree from Utah State University. He also holds a master’s degree from the University of Utah.