top of page
riconewman.jpg

Rico Newman

Elder's Council Member, Choptico

   Band of Piscataway Conoy

   Chiefdom

Mr. Newman has 3 sons, 7 grand and 2 great grandchildren. Mr. Newman retired in 1989 after 28 years of service with various Federal and D.C. agencies to then enjoy a career in Real Estate for 15 years to again re-retire. In 2003, coaxed out of retirement to work with Smithsonian National Museum of the American Indian as Consultant, in 2004 hired as a Cultural Information Specialist until 2009 to again retire.

​

As a Tribal Historian/Researcher, he spent many years participating in Civic, University and Tribal forums, developing a history/academic curriculum for tutoring tribal youth and adults. Meeting and engaging with students on all levels is a passion he ardently pursues. He currently serves on Prince Geo. Co. Minority Judicial Committee, Accokeek Foundation Board of Directors and Chair for Maryland Indian Tourism Association; nonprofit arm of the Choptico Band of Indians.


Recently served six years on Maryland Commission on Indian Affairs Education, Archaeology, Environment and Repatriation Committees. He formerly volunteered as a spokesperson with Chesapeake Bay Foundation, Friends of Jefferson Patterson Park & Museum, Maryland Dept. Natural Resources Trails Committee and is a current member of the Maryland Archaeological Society pursuing a Certified Archaeology Technician designation.

​

A traditional Beader and Finger Weaver, his work is displayed in Frisco Native Museum, N.C., National Museum of American Indians, D.C., and Baltimore American Indian Center. As spokesman for his tribe, aided in regaining Maryland Indian Status, January 9, 2012 via State Law and Executive Order.

​

​

bottom of page