The Tribal Public Health Feasibility Project convened the National Tribal Leaders Forum 2015 on March 11-12, 2015, in Phoenix, AZ. Tribal leaders, public health and legal professionals, and state and federal representatives explored ways that a Tribal Public Health Institute could strengthen and build the capacity of the tribal public health system-the network of tribes, tribal organizations, and other organizations whose primary intent is to protect and promote health in American Indian and Alaska Native communities. At the event, Stephanie Carroll Rainie connected with others thinking about opportunities to enhance governance as tribes build and strengthen their public health systems.

First Nations Health Authority

In March 2015, Stephanie Carroll Rainie met with staff from the First Nations Health Authority (FNHA) in Vancouver, BC, to learn more about FNHA's efforts in the province, including the programs, services, and responsibilities formerly managed by Health Canada's First Nations Inuit Health Branch-Pacific Region. The First Nations in British Columbia are moving toward a model of development and wellness that is self governing, community-driven, nation-based, and encompasses broad, community-level indicators of health and well-being. The meetings enabled the sharing of experiences, connections, and possibilities for collaboration.