The Sacramento Metropolitan Chamber of Commerce and Wilton Rancheria are proud to announce Wilton Rancheria Chairman Jesus G. Tarango, Jr. has been named to the Metro Chamber’s Board of the Director’s Executive Committee. This historic appointment marks the first time in the 130-year history of the Sacramento Metro Chamber that a tribal leader has served on the organization’s board of directors. The appointment became official on September 3, 2025.
“Tribal communities have been an integral part of our region for generations. To have such a dynamic and visionary tribal leader sitting at the table taking part in discussions that pave the path for growth and possibility is both significant and long overdue,” said Robert Heidt, President & CEO of the Sacramento Metro Chamber. “Chairman Tarango is committed to ensuring not only Wilton Rancheria’s voice is heard, but that all Indigenous communities are represented as we work together to build a successful, vibrant, and prosperous region for all.”
Wilton Rancheria is the only federally recognized tribe in Sacramento County. Like the Metro Chamber, the Tribe is deeply committed to helping to lead the way to build a successful and sustainable future for decades to come.
“To serve on the Metro Chamber’s Board of Directors is an honor, especially here in the heart of our ancestral homelands. For generations, Tribal Nations have helped shape the Sacramento region, long before city lines, business districts, or chambers existed,” said Chairman Tarango. “I’m grateful to the Metro Chamber for recognizing the importance of Tribal leadership in such a visible and meaningful way. I’m proud to represent Wilton Rancheria and to share our voice, values, and perspective in the work ahead.”
Chairman Tarango was born and raised in Sacramento, California, the traditional homeland of Miwok and Nisenan people. He began his service to the citizens of Wilton Rancheria when elected to the Tribal Council in 2016, where he served as Tribal Council Spokesperson. In 2018, he had the honor of being elected Vice-Chairman and was elected for his second term as Chairman in 2024. He is proud to lead the Capitol Tribe as it enters a time of historic growth and development.
The Sacramento Metro Chamber Board of Directors is comprised of leaders from the region’s top organizations, including small to large businesses, spanning a wide range of industries. Their volunteer leadership and guidance help make the Metro Chamber one of the most influential chambers in the country, enabling success in advocacy and initiatives which benefit our membership and the entire Capital Region.
More information about the Sacramento Metro Chamber is available at www.metrochamber.org; more information about Wilton Rancheria is available at www.WiltonRancheria-nsn.gov.