Gov. Lewis Receives National Recognition for Energy Leadership

November 21, 2025

Rural Renaissance

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Rural Power Award focused on rural resilience in energy, water, food and housing.

OPELIKA, AL. — Governor Stephen Roe Lewis of the Gila River Indian Community has been named a recipient of the 2025 Rural Power Award, a national honor recognizing transformative leadership in clean energy and rural development.

Governor Lewis was selected for his pioneering efforts to restore the Gila River, expand solar and hydroelectric energy infrastructure, and strengthen education, housing, and public services across the Community. His administration’s work is deeply rooted in O’odham values and agricultural traditions, blending cultural stewardship with modern innovation.

“Within the Gila River Indian Community, we stand on the shoulders of those who came before us, our first irrigators and conservators,” Lewis said. “Each decision we make is guided by cultural values and the goal of responsible stewardship for future generations. By applying traditional knowledge to modern challenges, we create innovative opportunities that preserve our future and honor our past.”

The Rural Power Award, presented annually to leaders advancing energy equity in rural America, highlights Lewis’s success in securing federal resources through groundbreaking self-determination programs. His approach has positioned Gila River as a model for other tribal nations and rural communities seeking sustainable, culturally grounded solutions.

“Governor Lewis exemplifies how Indigenous leadership can drive energy innovation while reinforcing community resilience,” said Michelle Moore a CEO of Groundswell. “His work demonstrates that honoring tradition and embracing technology are not mutually exclusive—they are powerful partners in building a better future.”

The Gila River Indian Community continues to collaborate with local, state, and federal partners to expand its energy initiatives and share its roadmap for sustainable development. Lewis’s recognition marks a milestone not only for the Community, but for tribal leadership nationwide.