Mary Big Bull-Lewis (she/her)
Founder / Executive Director

Mary is the founder and Executive Director of IRRF. An enrolled member of the Colville Confederated Tribes—Wenatchi, Moses, and Entiat bands—and a descendant of the Blackfoot Tribe, she was born and raised in the Wenatchee Valley. Rooted in her heritage and community, Mary has built a path as an Indigenous entrepreneur, co-owning three small businesses with her husband: Wenatchi Wear, R Digital Design, and the Evergreen Gift Shop. Her professional journey has carried her through the legal and medical fields, but she ultimately discovered her purpose in culture, art, and entrepreneurship.

Guided by vision and determination, Mary long dreamed of creating a community space where Indigenous Peoples could gather, connect, and thrive. That dream began to take shape through the support of like-minded partners who shared her commitment. Her leadership extends beyond IRRF—she served on the Washington Creative Economy Strategic Plan Work Group and was appointed by the Governor as a Commissioner for the ArtsWA Board.

Outside of her work, Mary cherishes time with family and friends, enjoys hiking with her dogs, and finds joy in traditional cultural crafts.