Lacee Shepard

As Eighth Generation’s Director of Business Development, Lacee Shepard (Odawa) is a valued executive who helps lead one of the fastest-growing Native-owned businesses through the lens of Native-values and with a people-first mindset. Under Lacee’s direction, Eighth Generations wholesale, bulk, and custom orders departments have grown exponentially, bringing more authentic Native-designed blankets and products to global retailers than ever before. Her implemented processes and policies are directly responsible for increased customer satisfaction, and her leadership on key business projects has contributed to the economic success of the company.

Outside of work, Lacee connects to her Native community through the Anishinaabemowin Language Program to learn her ancestral language and has recently accepted a fellowship with the Sage Leaders Community Leadership Institute.

Eighth Generation

Eighth Generation is a Seattle-based art and lifestyle brand owned by the Snoqualmie Tribe. Founded in 2008 when Louie Gong (Nooksack) started customizing shoes in his living room, Eighth Generation is now a thriving small business with customers across the globe. As the first Native-owned company to ever produce wool blankets—and with a flagship retail store downtown Seattle—Eighth Generation is a proud participant in the global economy.

Eighth Generation provides a strong, ethical alternative to “Native-inspired” art and products through its artist-centric approach and 100% Native designed products. Our Inspired Natives® Project, anchored by the tagline Inspired Natives®, not “Native- inspired,” builds business capacity among cultural artists while addressing the economic impact of cultural appropriation.