Bernadine has a long history of serving the Fort McDowell Yavapai Nation along with the Native American community in the state and, indeed, the nation.

Having grown up on the Fort McDowell reservation and attending technical college for a few years, Bernadine has spent the rest of her life in service. Her knowledge of Yavapai history, language and culture is immense.

Bernadine first served on various boards for her tribe, including as medical trustee and then on the retirement, environmental and public safety retirement boards. 

She spent more than 30 years on the Fort McDowell Yavapai Tribal Council – secretary, vice president and finally two terms as president from 2016 until 2024.

Bernadine spent six years as president of the Arizona Indian Gaming Association. She served on various state and national boards include the Inter-Tribal Council of Arizona, Maricopa Association of Governments Council, Indian Gaming Association, National Congress of American Indians, National Indian Education Association and National Indian Environmental Association.

Bernadine is most proud of the fact that she was able to carry out the visions of her own people and her fellow leaders to bring new economic development opportunities and business ventures to Fort McDowell for the benefit of increased serves and jobs for tribal members, including the impressive We-Ko-Pa Casino Resort.