MAXINE VELASQUEZ, PRESIDENT/CEO & ESQ

Maxine Velasquez is the President & CEO of Laguna Development Corporation (LDC), a 
multimillion-dollar, tribally owned enterprise of the Pueblo of Laguna. An enrolled tribal member of Laguna and licensed attorney, she is the first woman to lead the corporation, which operates across gaming, entertainment, hospitality, food & beverage, retail, and fuel industries.

Since her appointment in 2020, Maxine has driven LDC to record-breaking revenues, facility expansions, and workforce growth. She has prioritized the advancement of tribal professionals into executive roles and led the growth of Fuego Enterprises’ fast-casual brand, World-Famous Laguna Burger. She also negotiated the successful sale of a commercial racetrack and gaming facility, delivering a 305% return on investment.

With over two decades of experience in tribal law and economic development, Maxine 
previously served as LDC’s General Counsel and represented tribal governments and business enterprises on legal and policy matters. She also served as the Chair of the Pueblo of Laguna Gaming Control Board for 15 years.

She holds a J.D., M.P.A., and B.A. from the University of New Mexico, an A.A. from Allan 
Hancock College, a Business Administration Certificate from the University of Notre Dame, and is completing her M.B.A. at UNM.

Maxine was named 2023 Executive of the Year by the Native American Finance Officers 
Association and received the 2024 Distinguished Alumnus Award from Leadership New 
Mexico.