Alfred W. Delena
Steward of Innovation, Design, And Learning
Alfred Delena, a member of the Zuni Tribe, is an aspiring Indigenous leader, lifelong learner, service-oriented striver, growth seeker, and a work in progress. His upbringing on the Pueblo of Zuni, a rural Indigenous community and reservation, fuels his passion to help co-create a nation that is more liberated, just, hopeful, and equitable; a society that values people over profits; and a world that exudes and reconnects to the goodness of humanity.
Alfred is keenly interested in improving and elevating the well-being of individuals and communities. Before joining the Institute, he worked in the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services’ Federal Office of Rural Health Policy; served as an assistant Track and Field coach with the Zuni High School Thunderbirds; and interned at the Emerson Collective, a social impact organization. He graduated from Stanford University with a BA in Human Biology and a minor with honors in Education.
Alfred joined the Institute as Special Assistant to Rich Harwood before transitioning to his current role as Steward of Innovation, Design, and Learning. In his role, Alfred leads and supports the design, execution, and learning of various engagements and experiences that teach individuals the Harwood approach, which enables them to Turn Outward, create meaningful impact, and grow Civic Faith in their community.
Alfred enjoys running, watching films, listening to music and podcasts, making connections, reading books, being out in nature, journaling, and finding moments of calm through art and meditation.