MESA, Ariz. — Basketball player and member of the Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation, Jude Schimmel has been named a 2025 Native American 40 Under 40 honoree.

The National Center for American Indian Enterprise Development announced the recipients for the annual Native American 40 Under 40 award, recognizing individuals who demonstrate leadership, initiative and dedication to their communities.

According to the 40 Under 40 website, the organization awards 40 Native American, Alaska Native, Native Hawaiian and First Nations young leaders who have made significant contributions in business and/or in their community.

“It really is a heartfelt honor to be a recipient of the NCAIED 40 Under 40 award,” Schimmel said. “There are so many amazing people and organizations doing impactful work across the board. I’m grateful to be included and it motivates me to want to continue the good work.”

Schimmel, an enrolled member of CTUIR and one of the four member tribes of the Columbia River Inter-Tribal Fish Commission, was previously recognized in 2012.

Since then, she has made significant contributions to her community both on and off the basketball court, according to the CRITFC press release.

“At the end of the day there is always room for growth but I also think it’s important to acknowledge all the progress we have made as a whole,” Schimmel said. “I love my Indian people, and we deserve good things. Let’s keep building on what our ancestors started and keep going towards a healthy and prosperous future for current generations and the generations to come.”

Schimmel recently signed with Athletes Unlimited Pro Basketball for the 2025 season, which will take place in Nashville, Tennessee.

Among the awardees is Jeremy Takala, who carries the Indian name Pax’una’shut. He hails from the Kahmiltpah Band (Rock Creek) of the Columbia River territory and is a member of the Confederated Tribes and Bands of the Yakama Nation.

Takala is serving his second term on the Yakama Nation Tribal Council, where he chairs the Fish and Wildlife, Law and Order and Legislative Committees. He also serves as the chair of the Columbia River Inter-Tribal Fish Commission, marking the second time he has filled this role.

The 2025 Native American 40 Under 40 honorees will be celebrated at the Reservation Economic Summit from March 10–13, 2025, at Caesars Palace Hotel and Casino in Las Vegas, Nevada.