On Tuesday, March 7 Mark A. Cordova was introduced to Tribal Council as the new Southern Ute Detention Center Division Head. In addition to overseeing the daily operations of the detention center, Cordova will also manage inmate programs, budgets, and the training of detention officers.

Cordova comes to the tribe after retiring with honors from Homeland Security in December 2016. He has an extensive military background serving in the active-duty military for 23 years including time in the United States Marine Corps, Army Guard, Air Guard and active Air Force ­– Cordova retired with honors in 2007.

Cordova feels his past experience in the military and in Homeland Security has prepped him to take on his new role.

“I feel blessed to be selected,” Cordova said. “I want to do an excellent job here by treating everyone with dignity.”

While serving in his previous capacities Cordova has traveled the world and has experience working with numerous ethnicities and cultures, including Native American cultures. Cordova is a descendant of the Chickasaw Nation, and grew up in Arizona where he recalls being surrounded by Native cultures since a young age. Over the years, Cordova has experience working with a number of tribes including Southern Ute, Navajo, Apache and Pima.

Cordova prides himself on his work ethic and experience. Going forward with his new position he plans to continue working hard while treating everyone with respect.

“If you do your job and do it right, and treat people right; you should succeed,” he said. “I’m very proud to have this privilege to work for the Southern Ute Tribe.”

Cordova’s family includes his wife of 29 years and their three children – two daughters and one son.