The San Manuel Band of Mission Indians has elected Lynn "Nay" Valbuena as chairwoman. Valbuena, whose term begins today, will lead San Manuel's seven-member tribal council that is responsible for enforcing by-laws, establishing policies, protecting business interests and preserving the sovereignty of the tribe.

Valbuena served as San Manuel's chairwoman from 1994 to 1996 and vice chairwoman from 2008 to 2012. In her newly elected position, Valbuena said she will continue the tribe's work to maintain cultural strengths and commitment to progress in an increasingly complex world.