About Us

We do work that matters

We do work that matters

KAI is dedicated to uplifting American Indian and Alaska Native people, tribal and urban Indian communities, and social sector programs.

Our Story

Founded in 1990, Kauffman and Associates, Inc., is an American Indian– and woman-owned management consulting firm dedicated to uplifting American Indian and Alaska Native people, tribal and urban Indian communities, and social sector programs. We value Indigenous Knowledge and believe in the inherent strength, resilience, and sovereignty of tribal nations to find community-led solutions for intergenerational healing, wellness, and growth.

Our expertise spans diverse specialty areas, including behavioral health, public health, education, and tribal affairs. We work closely with diverse stakeholders, combining stories of lived experiences with data-driven insights, to drive positive change across Indian Country.

At KAI, we do work that matters!

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Our Values

KAI is a mission-driven organization, firmly grounded in our company values that guide our approach and prioritize the work that we pursue.

We honor Indigenous world views and wisdom to find Indigenous solutions to modern day challenges in a post-colonial world

By sharing what we know we honor those teachers who came before and the future generations yet to come.

We constantly search for more efficient, effective, and meaningful ways to operate and move our work forward.

We are committed to open, authentic, and transparent relationships with colleagues, clients, partners, and community members.

Working together, leveraging our collective knowledge we create better solutions, products, and build stronger, happier teams.

Ultimately, we seek to generate impact, sustain momentum, and ensure positive change in individuals, communities, and organizations.

Our Team

Jo Ann Kauffman

Founder
Nez Perce

Kevin Ollokot Keefe

CEO
Nez Perce
Holly Echo-Hawk

Holly Echo-Hawk

Senior Behavioral Health Advisor
Pawnee Nation

Dr. Aaron Payment

VP for Tribal Relations and Learning
Sault Ste. Marie Tribe

Crystal Tetrick

VP for Health Systems and Policy
Otoe-Missouria

Josephine Keefe

VP for Communications
Nez Perce

Dr. Soultana Macridis

VP for Research, Evaluation, and Planning
Ally of Indian Country

Jennifer Gillissen

VP for Meeting and Event Planning
Ally of Indian Country
Dr. Joni Buffalohead

Dr. Joni Buffalohead

VP for Behavioral Health Transformation
Bdewákhathuŋwaŋ Dakota, Sisseton-Wahpeton Oyate