About

The Office of Tribal Relations at UW–Madison builds and nurtures relationships with the Native Nations of Wisconsin and the organizations and entities created by tribal nations and communities. The Office advises the Chancellor on policy and practice as it relates to government-to-government relations, Indigenous student well-being, research with Native Nations, as well as campus placemaking, historical, and cultural preservation.

Carla Vigue is the Director of Tribal Relations at UW–Madison and a citizen of the Oneida Nation. She leads the university’s initiatives, strategic engagement opportunities, and special projects with tribal nations and affiliated organizations. 

With more than twenty years of experience in public affairs, communications, and outreach, Carla has devoted her career to building meaningful connections and creating opportunities for tribal communities to thrive. Before joining UW–Madison, her experience included advocacy, and media and public relations work on behalf of Native Nations in Washington, D.C. and nationally. She also served on the leadership team for the Governor of the State of Wisconsin followed by more than a decade directing public affairs work in Wisconsin state government.

Carla advocates for Native Nations to have a voice at the table, using education to create transformative opportunities for a positive impact. Her commitment is rooted in a fundamental philosophy instilled in her from an early age: the importance of community, public service, and giving back. She carries with her the Seven Generations philosophy that the decisions we make today should not serve self-interest, rather they should take into consideration the well-being our children, grandchildren, and the next seven generations.