Mashantucket ― Jean Swift, the Mashantucket Pequot Tribe’s chief financial officer and a former tribal councilor, has been appointed to the seven-member U.S. Department of the Treasury Tribal Advisory Committee, the tribe announced.

Swift was nominated by U.S. Rep. Richard Neal of Massachusetts, chairman of the House Committee on Ways and Means.

U.S. Treasurer Lynn Malerba, chief of the Mohegan Tribe, served on the committee prior to being appointed treasurer.

“Jean brings a wealth of experience and knowledge with tribal finance and economic development along with a deep commitment to tribal equity” Malerba said in a statement. “She will be a thoughtful addition to the committee.”

Swift served on the Mashantucket Pequot council from 2013 to 2018. During her stint as council treasurer, the Mashantuckets completed three phases of affordable housing development. Swift also led a financial wellness initiative covering such topics as social security, estate planning, personal budgeting and insurance.

From January 2019 to May 2021, she served as a financial adviser to the council. In 2019, she was honored as the Native American Finance Officers Association’s Executive of the Year.

“Jean has developed an eminent reputation throughout Indian Country as a leading voice on important tribal parity issues such as taxation and debt restructuring,” Rodney Butler, the Mashantucket chairman, said. “Known for her keen understanding of the nuances of tribal economies and finances, her credentials and experience make her a tremendous asset to and advocate for all of Indian Country.”

The Treasury Tribal Advisory Committee advises the Treasury secretary on matters related to the taxation of Indians and the training of Internal Revenue Service field agents and Native American financial officers. Three committee members are nominated by the secretary, two are nominated by the House Committee on Ways and Means and two are nominated by the Senate Committee on Finance.