Roberta Leash

Roberta Leash serves as the Tribal Liaison for the County, providing a vital connection between the County of San Diego and the 18 Tribal Nations represented by 17 Tribal governments in the region. In this role, she collaborates with all County departments and Tribal Nations to strengthen cross‑governmental relationships and foster mutual support for the health, well‑being, quality of life, and sustainability of Tribal communities. Her work uplifts Tribal priorities and ensures they are reflected meaningfully in regional initiatives.

Roberta brings more than six years of experience in Tribal government through her service to her Tribe, Cahuilla. As Tribal Council Secretary, she built and nurtured partnerships among Tribal, local, state, and federal organizations, helping safeguard the health, comfort, and security of Tribal members. Her earlier professional experience includes traveling to Tribal Nations across the United States in a marketing role for the Seneca Tobacco Company, giving her valuable firsthand insight into the diversity and shared challenges of Tribal communities nationwide.

In addition to her public sector and Tribal leadership work, Roberta has been a small business owner since 2017, operating a community‑focused coffee shop that deepens her connection to the everyday needs of her hometown community.

Roberta holds a Bachelor of Science in Political Science from Fort Lewis College in Colorado, with a focus in Native American Indigenous Studies. Her greatest motivation in this work is supporting healing for all peoples and building platforms where traditional knowledge holders can guide the way for future generations.

Beyond her professional commitments, Roberta enjoys spending time outdoors and participating in sports activities with her children, nieces, and nephews. Engaging with both youth and elders is one of her greatest joys and remains at the heart of how she serves community.