Council Members - amah mutsun tribal band
Jeff Butron - Vice Chairman
Jeff Butron is a prominent figure in both his Native American community and the broader field of social services. As Vice-Chairman of the Amah Mutsun Tribal Band of Mission San Juan Bautista, Jeff draws on a rich lineage of California Native American heritage dating back to 1792. He is recognized by the Bureau of Indian Affairs as a Native American from California. His commitment to his tribe is complemented by his role as a Council Member since 2017. Professionally, Jeff serves as a Rehabilitation Counselor for the County of Santa Clara's Office of Supportive Housing and as a counselor for Kaiser Permanente's Behavioral Health Chemical Dependency Recovery Program. His expertise is underscored by his certifications as a Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor III (CADC III) and an Internationally Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor (ICADC). His academic background includes a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from San Jose State University, with a focus on generational trauma and industrial psychology. Jeff’s community work is extensive. He has played a key role in preserving and restoring the Ulistac Natural Area and has contributed to the Ohlone Profiles Project, participating in activities like public speaking and working with city planning departments to protect ancient Native American burial sites. His past efforts also include revitalizing California Native American ceremonial dance and songs through the San Francisco Ethnic Dance Festival. Additionally, Jeff has been involved with the Gilroy Homeless Task Force and is an active member of the Willow Glen Kiwanis Club, dedicated to community improvement and supporting children.
Shelby R. Brown - Secretary
As a lifelong member of the Amah Mutsun Tribal Band of San Juan Bautista, Shelby R. Brown has played an integral role in the preservation of Native American history, artifacts, and remains. Her lineage, tracing back to 1732, grants her a deep understanding of her people's heritage. Her commitment to cultural conservation was evident from an early age, and she joined the Junior Council in 2003. In 2024, she assumed the role of Official Secretary of the Tribal Council, further solidifying her dedication to the tribe. Shelby's passion for her culture extends beyond her official duties. She has served as a Registered Medical Assistant, contributing to the well-being of her community. Her pursuit of a Bachelor's Degree in Criminal Justice showcases her dedication to upholding justice and protecting her people's rights. Currently, Shelby's professional endeavors focus on her role as Senior Native American Cultural Resource Monitor, Consultant, and Secretary at Amah Mutsun Tribal Band Monitoring and Consulting Inc. In this capacity, she collaborates closely with private, local, state, federal, and international planners and developers. Shelby's expertise and experience are invaluable in ensuring that the tribe's cultural heritage is respected and preserved during development projects. She is deeply committed to the growth and unity of the tribe; her contributions of time and resources extend beyond the pursuit of Federal Recognition to encompass the well-being of the community as a whole. Shelby is eager to contribute her extensive knowledge and experience to support the tribe's continued growth.
Marlene Juarez - Council Member
Marlene Juarez has been a beacon of dedication and innovation since joining the Amah Mutsun Tribal Band of San Juan Bautista Mission's Council in 2013. Balancing the preservation of our cherished traditions with modern needs, Marlene actively engages with our community and learns from esteemed leaders like Tribal Chairman Irenne Zwierlein. Her 18-year career in Human Resources, including 12 years at a Fortune 500 company, has provided her with a wealth of experience in organizational integration, strategic communication, and problem-solving. This expertise, combined with her ongoing professional development in areas such as conflict management and project management, makes Marlene a valuable asset to our council. Her commitment to both honoring our heritage and advancing our community is truly inspiring
Christopher Quintana - Sergeant of Arms
Chris Quintana, a lifelong member of the Amah Mutsun Tribal Band, exhibits exemplary dedication in his role as Sergeant of Arms, a position he has held since 2022. He takes immense pride in his responsibilities, ensuring the safety and security of the tribal community, upholding the traditions that define their cultural heritage, and maintaining order within the tribe. Chris is deeply committed to fostering the growth and prosperity of the Amah Mutsun tribe for generations to come. He actively seeks out and explores opportunities that will advance the tribe's progress, ensuring that future generations have the chance to thrive within the rich culture of their ancestors.