AARP Oklahoma 2019 Native American Elder Honors

Evening Events

Dinner

Oklahoma Fancy Dancers

Invocation – Osage Prayer/ Blessing, Dr. Steven Pratt

In Memoriam – John Hamilton

Master of Ceremonies – Sean Voskuhl, AARP Oklahoma State Director

Welcome – Catherine Alicia Georges, AARP National Volunteer President

Dr. John Edwards Memorial Leadership Award

Presentation of Medallions

Dr. John Edwards

MEMORIAL LEADERSHIP AWARD

About the Award

Dr. John Edwards (1935-2014) was a beloved member of the AARP Oklahoma Executive Council, a Peacemaker for the Chickasaw Nation Supreme Court, an arbitrator for the U.S. Department of Interior and former Governor of the Absentee Shawnee Tribe. He dedicated his life for the betterment of his fellow man and was a pastor of the Fellowship of American Indians Church of Oklahoma. His Indian name was “Nikaani Kaapaa: Leader Standing in Front.” This award recognizes an individual whose leadership and positive impact on Native Americans embodies the spirit of Dr. Edwards.

Award Winner WES STUDI

Cherokee Nation

From small-town Oklahoma native to internationally acclaimed actor and musician, Wes Studi credits his passion and multi-faceted background to his powerful character portrayals that forever changed a Hollywood stereotype.

Drawing from his rich life experience, Mr. Studi moved audiences with unforgettable performances in “Dances with Wolves,” “The Last of the Mohicans,” “Geronimo: An American Legend,” and “Heat,” as well as James Cameron’s “Avatar,” Paul Weitz’s “Being Flynn” and Scott Cooper’s “Hostiles.” Breaking new ground, he brought fully developed Native American characters to the screen, and then took his craft a step further highlighting the success of Native Americans in non-traditional roles.

The eldest son of a ranch hand, Mr. Studi was born in 1947 in Nofire Hollow in northeastern Oklahoma. He spoke only his native Cherokee until he was five, when he was enrolled in the Murrell Home to attend public school. He later attended the Chilocco Indian Boarding School in northern Oklahoma, where he remained through high school

graduation. Yet, unlike many fellow Native American students, he never forgot his language.

Mr. Studi joined the U.S. Army and while stationed at Fort Benning, Ga., stories from returning Vietnam War veterans set his blood on fire. With only 12 months of his sixyear service left, Mr. Studi volunteered to go to Vietnam. He served one tour in South Vietnam with the 9th Infantry Division in the Mekong Delta, living his own future war stories. At one point his company was pinned down in the Mekong Delta – and nearly killed – by friendly fire.

After an honorable military discharge, Mr. Studi returned home and became involved with Native American politics. He joined the American Indian Movement and participated in the Trail of Broken Treaties protest march in 1972, where hundreds of Native American activists marched on Washington. He was one of the protesters who briefly occupied the Bureau of Indian Affairs building. In 1973, Mr. Studi participated in the occupation at Wounded Knee, S.D., for which he was arrested.

Recognizing his current path could lead to self-destruction, Mr. Studi changed course and channeled his feelings toward positive change. Shortly after Wounded Knee, Mr. Studi moved to Tahlequah, Okla., where he worked for the Cherokee Nation. He helped start the Cherokee Phoenix, a bilingual newspaper still in publication today. During that time, Mr. Studi put his linguistic skills to work and began teaching the Cherokee language in the community. He then attended Northeastern State University in Tahlequah and made further attempts at positive influence in his work with his people.

After college, Mr. Studi shifted his attention to running his own horse ranch and became a professional horse trainer. It was during this era that he began acting at The American Indian Theatre Company in Tulsa.

Mr. Studi’s other notable film credits include: “The Only Good Indian,” which he also produced, James Cameron’s Academy Award-winning “Avatar,” “The New World,” “Street Fighter,” “Seraphim Falls,” “Three Priests,” and such prestigious television movies as “Crazy Horse,” “Comanche Moon,” “Streets of Laredo,” “Broken Chain,” and “Bury My Heart at Wounded Knee.” His television credits include Showtime’s “Penny Dreadful,” “The Mentalist,” “Hell on Wheels,” and General Abner in “Kings.”

In 2013, he was inducted to the National Cowboy and Western Heritage Museum’s Hall of Great Western Performers. Throughout his 30-year career, he has won numerous awards, including several First Americans in the Arts awards and the 2009 Santa Fe Film Festival Lifetime Achievement Award.

In 2018, Mr. Studi was invited to present at the 90th Academy Awards. To a viewership of 26.5 million households, he introduced a video montage of military movies as a tribute to our veterans. This year, Mr. Studi will be the first Native American to be honored by the Academy with its Lifetime Achievement Award.

At home, Mr. Studi’s artistic talent extends well beyond acting. He is a skilled stone carver, working primarily in soapstone and other soft stones. He is also an accomplished musician. Playing bass and guitar, he fronts the band “Firecat of Discord” with his wife, singer Maura Dhu. Firecat of Discord released their first selftitled CD in 1998 and toured the U.S. in 2000. Their music was also featured in the short film Bonnie Looksaway’s “Iron Art Wagon,” which Mr. Studi directed.

Additionally, Mr. Studi wrote two children’s books, “The Adventures of Billy Bean” and “More Adventures of Billy Bean,” for the Cherokee Bilingual/Cross Cultural Education Center. In 2006, Mr. Studi was honored with the Golden Boot Award.

Mr. Studi remains a passionate activist and academic. He has taken a national leadership role in the promotion and preservation of indigenous languages, acting as the spokesperson for the Santa Fe-based Indigenous Language Institute, and working as a language consultant on several films, including “Avatar” and the PBS documentary “We Shall Remain.” He is also active in encouraging the next generation of filmmakers and performers, providing mentorship and participating in apprenticeship programs.

Mr. Studi and Maura live in Santa Fe, N.M. They have one son, Kholan. Mr. Studi also has a son, Daniel, and a daughter, Leah, from a previous marriage.

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The Honorees

Chickasaw Nation

Jim Anderson was born at the Talihina Indian Hospital and was the seventh of nine children in his family. He attended the Jones Academy Boarding School and later graduated from Liberal High School in Liberal, Kan. He attended Fresno City College, but was soon drafted into the U.S. Army. His service lasted two years and included a tour in Vietnam. He was honorably discharged with the rank of Specialist E-5.

Work took Mr. Anderson to Los Angeles for a career in construction which he still enjoys today. After a 12-year break, Mr. Anderson completed his Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology from Fresno State University.

Throughout the years, Mr. Anderson and his wife, Fran, have supported numerous charities including St. Jude, Habitat for Humanity, Poverello House, Marjaree Mason, Evangel Home and Valley Children‘s Hospital. Mr. Anderson was also active in Rotary for more than 20 years, and he received the highest award a Rotarian can receive, the Service Above Self Paul Harris Award.

Mr. Anderson’s involvement with veteran organizations has been extensive, including work with the Choctaw Code Talkers Association, Choctaw Veterans Association and Chickasaw Veterans Association. His work also extends to various VFW posts, including Clovis VFW Post 3225 where he was twice elected commander. He currently serves with Post 3225’s honor guard. He also works tirelessly on behalf of fellow veterans creating new programs. Mr. Anderson recently served as the Army chair for the 75th Anniversary of D-Day.

Other accolades include Citizen Soldier of the Year and the Presidential Medal from Association of the United States Army.

Delaware Tribe

Allan R. Barnes graduated from Northeastern State University and embarked on a successful 22-year career as an independent insurance agent. Since 2013, he has served the Delaware Tribe in numerous capacities including tribal operations manager. Currently, Mr. Barnes is the tribal domicile commissioner and operating general manager.

Mr. Barnes takes great pride in his tribal heritage. His great-grandfather, John R. Willey, was a Delaware interpreter for the Dawes Commission in the early 1900s. Based on his great respect for all elders of his tribe, Mr. Barnes prefers to refer to himself as a “junior elder.” When not performing tribal duties, he and his wife enjoy dominoes, backgammon, Sunday drives and golf.

ERNESTINE BERRY

United Keetoowah Band of Cherokee Indians

Ernestine Berry is the executive director of United Keetoowah Band John Hair Cultural Center and Museum. Ms. Berry recognized gaps in Keetoowah history and heritage and was determined to remedy it. Her perseverance resulted in the “Missing Pieces: Rediscovering Keetoowah Law, Language, Literature” exhibit at the museum.

Through a grant, Ms. Berry was able to locate, travel and collect several Keetoowah documents scattered throughout the country at libraries, archives and universities. Hundreds of documents telling the history of the Keetoowah people, once readable only in the Cherokee syllabary, have now been translated into English. Translators had a difficult task which was made even more complicated by the age of some of the documents, including a copy of the Keetoowah Nighthawk Constitution from 1925.

The free exhibit is divided into separate sections and focuses on government dealings at the time of Cherokee removal, as well as stories and personal letters.

JOE COON

Seminole Nation

Joe Coon’s love of language and learning has always been his driving force. Mr. Coon graduated from Sequoyah High School and worked for AT&T until retirement. Mr. Coon then enrolled in East Central University to pursue his dream of becoming a teacher and coach.

After graduation, Mr. Coon taught the Seminole language at Konawa and Wewoka High Schools. He currently teaches at Seminole High School and East Central University. Mr. Coon is one of three certified Seminole language instructors for the Oklahoma Department of Education. He is also the director of the Seminole Nation language department. Additionally, Mr. Coon sings in the Seminole language on the weekly Seminole Nation radio show. He touches lives throughout his community, and, although he shies away from recognition, his generosity is well-known. Mr. Coon is a proud father and treasures the title of grandpa.

CHEBON DACON

Thlopthlocco Tribal Town

Chebon Dacon is a gifted athlete who became a hall of fame artist. He is the grandson of Sardy Dacon and Harney Yaholar, and son of the late Sandy and Christine Dacon of the Turtle Clan. Mr. Dacon’s father was instrumental in reestablishing the Thlopthlocco Tribal Town in Oklahoma.

The Capitol Hill High School athlete was heavily recruited and accepted a scholarship from the University of Oklahoma. However, knee injuries ended his football career. After Mr. Dacon left the OU, he spent much of the next decade crisscrossing the country, bareback riding on the rodeo circuit and dancing at powwows and performance events.

Mr. Dacon found a different purpose for his life through art, and he credits it for helping him overcome the disappointments experienced in life. Over the last four decades, Mr. Dacon’s work has been displayed internationally. In 2015, Mr. Dacon was inducted into the Msvkoke Hall of Fame. He is especially proud of his collaboration with Thlopthlocco elders which includes his father. This includes Mr. Dacon’s documentation of Thlopthlocco history through narrative and artistic renderings. His popularity as an artist continues to flourish, as does his love for OU football.

Cherokee Nation

Sharon Dawes has been active in the Native American community throughout her life. For more than three decades, she served as the director of Miami Indian Health Center, now known as the Northeastern Tribal Health System in Miami, Okla. In addition, Mrs. Dawes served as the Ottawa tribal representative on the Northeastern Tribal Health board. She also found time to teach her knowledge of the Cherokee language at Northeastern Oklahoma A&M College.

Over the years, Mrs. Dawes has enjoyed supporting her husband and children by organizing the Ottawa powwow. Mrs. Dawes is the proud grandmother of three granddaughters.

FRANCES HARRIED “DELLA” DOYEBI

Kiowa Tribe

“Bird All Over the World” is the name given by the Crow Tribe of Montana to honor Frances Harriet ‘Della’ Doyebi, a citizen of the Kiowa Tribe and of Caddo Nation and Delaware Tribe heritage. Visitors journey from all over the world to seek out Ms. Doyebi’s wisdom as a Kiowa language expert, song possessor and translator. Ms. Doyebi attended and taught at Native American boarding schools, and she often shares stories of her experiences. She is frequently requested to teach largely forgotten Kiowa songs, Native American church songs, World War II warrior songs and Kiowa tribal hymns. Ms. Doyebi and her husband, Hugh Andele’ Doyebi, have recorded many Native American songs and stories in the Kiowa language to safeguard their integrity and cultural provenance.

One of Ms. Doyebi’s many memorable life experiences occurred when she was invited to address and pray in the Kiowa language at the National Native American Prayer Breakfast in Washington, D.C. Ms. Doyebi continues to make superior traditional shawls, necklaces and dancing regalia. She does it, as she says, “the right way and culturally correct way.”

LAURENCE “LARRY” DUSHANE

Eastern Shawnee Tribe

Laurence Dushane’s service to the Eastern Shawnee Tribe is remarkable, especially since he was 50 years of age before associating with his Oklahoma tribe. His father worked in the Department of Interior Indian Services and held many positions with the Bureau of Indian Affairs which resulted in the family leaving Oklahoma in 1940. Mr. Dushane established a career and later retired from AT&T in 1998. He then moved back to Oklahoma and became immersed in the

Eastern Shawnee Tribe.

Mr. Dushane is involved in numerous tribal undertakings. First and foremost, he promotes Eastern Shawnee heritage. He religiously attends language classes and teaches leathermaking projects in the Eastern Shawnee Cultural Preservation department. Mention any cultural or tribal event such as an annual powwow, children’s powwow, stomp dances, monthly gatherings, children’s cultural camp or fundraisers, and Mr. Dushane is involved as a dancer, playing the flute or volunteering.

Additionally, Mr. Dushane works in the Specialized Programs department where he observes the needs of tribal citizens and helps address those needs.

JOE EXENDINE JR.

Caddo Nation

The impressive accomplishments and contributions of Joe Exendine Jr. are far-reaching through many facets of his life. Mr. Exendine served in the U.S. Army, 45th Infantry Brigade. Following an honorable discharge, he pursued a Bachelor of Arts degree and graduated from the University of Colorado.

A gifted athlete, Mr. Exendine excelled in competitive softball, winning 11 state championships and a national championship in 1979. He would go on to serve as the deputy commissioner for the Colorado Amateur Softball Association. He was also nominated to the Colorado Softball Hall of Fame.

Mr. Exendine’s career spanned work as a sportswriter for the Rocky Mountain News, General Motors factory representative, Goldsby, Okla. city manager, fiber optics supervisor and instructor for the National Park Service. His exemplary service was recognized with an award from Yellowstone National Park.

Former positions also include executive director of the Otoe-Missouria Tribe, director of the Chilocco Benefit Association, member of the Otoe-Missouria Gaming Commission, administrative director of the Kaw Nation and business manager of the Caddo Nation.

Mr. Exendine also served as a board member for the American Indian Education Opportunity Program, an advisory board member for the City of Denver Social Services department and treasurer and chairman for the Denver Native American Center.

This multi-faceted elder has authored a play and numerous books, poems and short stories. Mr. Exendine says he is “slowing down” and now only serves as the tribal manager for the Delaware Tribe.

SUE FISH

Chickasaw Nation

Sue Fish is passionate about her faith, family, community and the Chickasaw Nation’s culture. An East Central University graduate, Mrs. Fish worked for the Chickasaw Nation for a decade, including working in Governor Bill Anoatubby’s office. She then spent 17 years with the American Indian Institute. For the past 12 years, she has worked at the American Indian Cultural Center.

Mrs. Fish has been involved with the Chickasaw Nation as an employee and a citizen. Her volunteer work includes the Chickasaw Princess Pageant, Chickasaw Nation Head Start Program and the National Native Youth Conference. For more than 25 years, she helped plan Falls Creek Baptist Indian Assembly, an annual summer family camp for approximately 3,000 Native Americans. She also serves as vice chair of the Chickasaw Historical Society Board, vice president of Oklahoma Native American Basket Weavers and guild member. Mrs. Fish was selected as a panelist for the 2010 Dynamic Chickasaw Women.

Mrs. Fish’s Christian faith is a very important part of her life. She has served alongside her husband, who is the associate pastor of Cornerstone Indian Baptist Church, for more than 30 years. Her roles have included Bible study director, devotion leader and vacation Bible school team member.

Mrs. Fish enjoys Native American basket weaving and shares her craft with others.

In 2016, the Chickasaw Nation awarded her the prestigious Silver Feather Award for her efforts towards preserving, researching and teaching Chickasaw and southeastern basketry. She and her husband of 42 years are proud parents of four children and blessed with five grandchildren.

KATHRYN JOSIE GASHWAZRA

Iowa Tribe

Kathryn Josie Gashwazra was born to the late Howard Leroy Springer, a full-blooded Iowa, and the late Ruth McClellan of the Sac & Fox and Otoe Tribes. She was born in the Perkins, Okla. area. In her early youth, the family moved to Arkansas City, Kan., where she attended school. Today, she makes her home in Tryon, Okla. with her husband, Marvin. She is employed with the Iowa Tribe at the Cimarron Casino. She was previously employed with Oklahoma State University.

Ms. Gashwazra and her husband are long-standing members of the Native American Church. She is an excellent cook and loves to prepare special dishes for family and friends. In 2018, Ms. Gashwazra was honored as the Iowa Tribe Elder of the Year.

TED GRANT

Otoe-Missouria Tribe

Ted Grant was elected to his vice chairman role for the OtoeMissouria Tribal Council in 2012. Through the years, he has held many positions with the Otoe-Missouria Tribe including construction labor, security officer, bingo caller, conservation officer and director of the Otoe-Missouria Gaming commission. He also served as the chief of police and chief bailiff for the Otoe-Missouria tribal court for 12 years.

Vice Chairman Grant’s blood lineage comes from the Buffalo Clan. He is the son of the late William “Bill” Grant and Adah Mae Cerre Grant. He was raised with the traditional values of the Otoe-Missouria people and is believes strongly in taking care of elders and children.

Vice Chairman Grant is one of the founders of the Red Rock Creek Gourd Dancers and is a member of the Kiowa Gourd Clan. He belongs to the First Born Church of the OtoeMissouria chapter and is a member of the Otoe-Missouria Tribal Sweat Lodge. Vice Chairman Grant and his wife, Teresa, live in Red Rock, Okla.

NELSON

SCOTT HARJO SR.

Alabama-Quassarte Tribal Town

Nelson Scott Harjo Sr. is Chief of the Alabama-Quassarte

Tribal Town and a Muscogee Creek Native American flute player. Chief Harjo was born in Okemah, Okla. and graduated from high school in Weleetka, Okla. He went on to study robotics at Oklahoma State University – Okmulgee and graduated with an associate degree in applied science. Chief Harjo was the pastor of the United Methodist Church for many years. He also started and operated his own business. Chief Harjo has worked for the Muscogee Creek Nation in many capacities, including employment with the Head Start program, service as a community health representative and chairman of the citizenship office. As Chief, he has worked to create an environment of progressive thinking, planning and action to spur economic development. Chief Harjo is also an adjunct instructor for the College of Muscogee Creek Nation.

Chief Harjo’s Native American flutes are in high demand worldwide thanks to his mastery and artistry. He is passionate about teaching others the skills and techniques required of this legendary art.

NORMAN B. HILDEBRAND JR.

Wyandotte Nation

Norman B. Hildebrand Jr. has served on the Wyandotte Nation board of directors for 15 years. He has served the last eight years as Second Chief. Before his election to the board of directors, Second Chief Hildebrand held a position on the grievance committee. He is also the alternate delegate for the Eastern Oklahoma Region on the National Congress of American Indians.

Under Second Chief Hildebrand’s leadership, the Wyandotte Nation has increased tribal scholarships, grown tribal housing, expanded preschool and afterschool programs, constructed a splash pad and playground for the housing area and added a medical benefit card for tribal citizens nationwide. Second Chief Hildebrand is also a gourd dancer and enjoys participating in local powwows.

Seminole Nation

Marilyn Jumper is a member of the Newcomer band and the Bear Clan. She is active in her community and church, but the role she treasures most is being a grandmother. She often brings her two grandsons to traditional events and enjoys watching them live and thrive in their culture. Ms. Jumper serves as a youth teacher at Community Indian Baptist Church and teaches vacation Bible school.

Ms. Jumper’s public service in law enforcement has spanned 13 years. In Florida, she worked for the state and often took part in warrant sweeps. She now works with both victims and survivors of domestic violence in Tulsa County.

Ms. Jumper is an active member of the Oklahoma Federation of Indian Women. She believes that leadership is not about being the best, but about making others better.

CORNELIA “PAT” KOPEPASAH

Kiowa Tribe

Cornelia “Pat” Kopepasah is considered a woman of personal grace with immense love for her students, community and family. She is fondly called “Grandma Pat” by all who are fortunate enough to know her.

Mrs. Kopepasah’s work at the Anadarko Public Schools has spanned more than 30 years and impacted countless lives. She has served as a substitute teacher, attendance coordinator and consulting teacher for a Kiowa language class. Currently, she serves as the secretary of the Indian Education department.

Mrs. Kopepasah has also been coordinator of the award-winning Anadarko Public Schools Indian Education Dance Troupe for the last 20 years. Under her watchful eye, students learn poise, patience, and respect for their peers, elders and their heritage. She instills a sense of cultural pride in the students and encourages them to always say a prayer of thanks. Mrs. Kopepasah is a devoted teacher and preservationist of language, song and culture.

WALTER L. LARNEY

Absentee Shawnee Tribe

Walter L. Larney’s service to his country and tribe is long and distinguished. Commander Larney is a decorated U.S. Marine Corps veteran who served with distinction in Vietnam. He was presented the Navy Achievement Medal for his superior leadership and performance of duties in an exemplary manner. Commander Larney participated in several major combat operations and repeatedly distinguished himself by his courage and composure under fire.

Commander Larney’s service continued at home with the Absentee Shawnee Veterans Association. His active involvement includes participating in color guard ceremonies throughout the state and nation. Under his leadership as Commander, the Absentee Shawnee Veterans Association has participated in veteran events at the local, state and federal level. The Absentee Shawnee Color Guard is easily recognized throughout Indian country.

Commander Larney is a respected member of the community and active in events, whether traditional or contemporary. Commander Larney and his wife have been married 36 years. They have four daughters and 11 grandchildren.

WILBERT LOWE

Thlopthlocco Tribal Town

Wilbert Lowe bravely served his country and is a U.S. Army veteran. Boxing is a passion of Mekko Lowe’s which began in high school and carried over to his time in the service.

Mekko Lowe has given his time, talents and effort to better the Thlopthlocco Tribal Town for many years. For the past 12 years, he served as chairman of the grievance committee. Mekko Lowe has served as land manager for the last decade. He is very active in the Arbeka Indian Baptist Church, serving as a trustee. Mekko Lowe shares this journey with his wife, Mona, of 23 years. They have six children, 17 grandchildren and two great-grandchildren.

WALLACE “BUD” MCCLELLAN

Sac and Fox Nation

Wallace “Bud” McClellan is a direct descendant of Black Hawk of the Thunder Clan, and he carries the name Muk a to Me cli Ka Kaak, which is Black Sparrow Hawk. Mr. McClellan’s desire to serve led him to enlist in the U.S. Army, where he would remain for nine years. He was stationed in Korea, France, Germany, Japan and Taiwan as a microwave radio technician. Upon return to civilian life, Mr. McClellan attended night school for six years and earned his bachelor’s degree from San Jose State University. He continued his education at Stanford University. After six years of postgraduate study, Mr. McClellan earned a master’s degree. Throughout his studies, he continued working and served as a volunteer teacher of GED classes at the San Jose Indian Center. Upon graduation, Mr. McClellan was a high school teacher and later returned to a career in electronics.

In 1988, Mr. McClellan moved back to his homeland in Oklahoma. Initially, he used his skills as a historical researcher and archivist in the Sac and Fox Library. He also became familiar with the ceremonial life and cycles of the Nation. Mr. McClellan learned to be a “memicli,” or a ceremonial helper. The first rule of having a Sac and Fox name or of carrying its tribal tobacco has always been, “When they make the fire, you be there to help.” Mr. McClellan is faithful to this ancient axiom. He is always present, willing to take his place and learn more duties and responsibilities.

Mr. McClellan is also a charter member and officer of the Sac and Fox Color Guard, and he has served as secretary and treasurer for more than a decade. For the last 15 years, Mr. McClellan has been seated in the position of the Thunder Clan Chief of the Sac and Fox Nation. He presides over all activities of the Thunder Clan, including funerals, the naming of children and spring ceremonies.

HENRY BUCK MCCLELLAN SR. Sac and Fox Nation

Henry Buck McClellan Sr. is a two-time World Champion Fancy Dancer. He travels throughout the country representing the Sac and Fox Nation in the Golden Age Fancy Dance category. Mr. McClellan is also considered a master bustle maker and loves sharing his expertise with younger dancers. He encourages them by telling the history of the fancy dance, as well as the significance and meaning

of each piece of the regalia. Mr. McClellan makes sets of bustles and gifts them to young dancers to encourage the next generation to keep the tradition alive.

Mr. McClellan is a member of the Native American Church where he can be found praying for and with others and singing Sac and Fox Native American church songs. Through his actions, Mr. McClellan preserves native culture and traditions he holds dear.

FRANKLIN MCKINLEY

Osage Nation

Franklin McKinley, a U.S. Navy veteran, has worked tirelessly as a member of the Osage Veterans Memorial Commission. The purpose of the commission is to follow the Osage Nation tradition of honoring Osage veterans, providing a physical reminder for present and future generations of the contributions and sacrifices of Osage veterans and their families.

As commission chairman, Mr. McKinley oversaw the completion of the memorial last year. The memorial features a 20-foot eagle feather situated upright like the eagle feathers worn by Osage men under the In-Lon-Schka Dance Arbor, or ceremonial Osage dances. The memorial also includes recognition of each branch of the military with names of the Osage people who served in those branches. “Loss is just not on the battlefield alone, but back at home, as well,” Mr. McKinley said. “Memorials are a compassionate way of respectfully reminding all of the sacrifices that are made by our veterans.”

Mr. McKinley has also served as a drum warmer for the Osage Nation In-Lon-Schka dances for the Grayhorse District for the last two decades. He has also served as a Whip Man for the Grayhorse In-Lon-Schka.

ALVIN MOORE SR.

Otoe-Missouria Tribe

Alvin Moore Sr. is currently serving his fourth term as the third member of the Otoe-Missouria Tribal Council. As a tribal council member, he strives to protect the assets of the Otoe-Missouria people and works to obtain additional assets to benefit the tribe. Councilman Moore is a member of the Owl Clan. He was also a founding member of the Red Rock Creek Gourd Dance Organization.

In addition to his service to the tribe, Councilman Moore has worked for the Indian Health Service Office of Environmental Health for the past 32 years. He resides in Red Rock, Okla. with his wife, Denise, and son, Alvin Jr. They also have two grown daughters, Shannon and April.

FRANKLIN “FRANK” MURRAY

Iowa Tribe

Franklin Joseph Murray, whose Indian name is Wy E O Eot, is a member of the Bear Clan. Mr. Murray has served the Iowa Tribe of Oklahoma in several capacities, resulting in meaningful relationships with tribal members and community leaders. Twice, Mr. Murray served as vice chairman of the business committee. He has worked for the Iowa Tribe as a carpenter and remodeled buildings. He was also hired to oversee the Bah-Kho-Je Gallery which provided a marketplace for Native American artists to sell their art.

Before the gallery moved to Guthrie, Okla., Mr. Murray organized an annual art show to feature Oklahoma Native American artists, dancers, pottery throwing and drum-making demonstrations. He also increased exposure by bringing art shows to Oklahoma State University and the University of Oklahoma. International and domestic visitors came to the Bah-Kho-Je Gallery to learn about the culture of the Ioway people.

Through his work at the gallery, Mr. Murray began creating custom frames which led to a new endeavor of framing art collections for the Anadarko and the Muskogee Bureau of Indian Affairs area offices. Currently, Mr. Murray is also the general manager of the Cimarron Smoke Shop.

Mr. Murray’s many contributions were recognized when he was honored as the male Elder of the Year for the Iowa Tribe of Oklahoma. He resides in Perkins, Okla. with his wife, Ruby.

MONA LEA PERRY

Choctaw Nation

Mona Lea Perry has lent her voice to furthering civil rights and diversity inclusion for all minority and ethnic groups for more than 60 years. In 2014, she was honored with the Martin Luther King NAACP Hero of Diversity Award in Olathe, Kan. She was recently inducted into the 2019 Starr Women’s Hall of Fame for making significant contributions to the status of women and society and inspiring others by her example. Ms. Perry is highly respected throughout Missouri and Kansas for her knowledge of and connections within the American Indian community. Perry has assisted American Indian youth and adults gain access to resources to garner employment, housing, medical assistance and education opportunities as part of her work as an employment specialist with the American Indian Center in Kansas City.

Additionally, Ms. Perry has volunteered with a myriad of organizations, including the Homeless Service Coalition, Stand for Children and KC Harmony. She has received four certificates of service as a member of the Missouri Advisory Council for the U.S. Commission on Civil Rights.

CORNEL PEWEWARDY

Comanche Nation

Cornel Pewewardy (Comanche-Kiowa) has been influential not only to the Lawton community, but also to the Comanche Nation. Dr. Pewewardy is Professor Emeritus in Indigenous Nations Studies at Portland State University and Fellow with the NACA Native Inspired Schools Network. Dr. Pewewardy engages in indigenous research paradigms by unfolding the impact of Native American mascots in schools and social media. His research also explores a culturally responsive teaching practice, insurgent research, indigenous urban and reservationbased teacher education, as well as tribal college partnerships and ethnology.

Dr. Pewewardy has received numerous leadership awards in teaching, research and service. Dr. Pewewardy was named a 2005 Scholar of Color Distinguished Scholar Award by the American Education Research Association, as well as the 2007 Mike Charleston Research Award for Distinguished Contributions to Indigenous Education. In 2009, he was named Teacher of the Year by the National Indian Education Association, as well as Outstanding Educator of the Year by the Oregon Indian Education Association. He was also named Teacher of the Year by the Oregon Indian Education Association in 2011.

Dr. Pewewardy was selected as the John Eliot Allen Outstanding Teacher in both 2012 and 2016. He was named as one of 21 individuals recognized as the most influential Native American educators in the nation by the University of Iowa in 2014.

Dr. Pewewardy was the recipient of the Silver Anniversary Award from the National Association for Multicultural Education and winner of their International Multicultural Research Award in 2015, as well as the Patricia Whitefoot Education Award with the Potlatch Fund in Seattle, Wash.

Most recently, Dr. Pewewardy was named the 2017 Indian Educator of the Year Award by the Oregon Indian Education Association. He is a five-time winner of the Big XII Outstanding Indian Faculty of the Year Award.

Through resolution, Dr. Pewewardy founded Indigenous Peoples’ Day which passed in January 2018. He is currently spearheading the Comanche Academy Indigenous Charter School in the Lawton area.

Dr. Pewewardy holds a Doctorate of Educational Administration from Pennsylvania State University. He is a Hubert H. Humphrey International Fellow with the University of Minnesota and graduate of the Institute for Educational Management at the Harvard Graduate School of Education. Dr. Pewewardy is a co-founder of the National Association for Multicultural Education and board member of the American Indian Studies Association. He also serves as a Comanche Nation educational liaison.

Dr. Pewewardy currently resides in Lawton with his partner, Dr. Nocona Pewewardy.

RISË SUPERNAW PROCTOR

Quapaw Tribe

Risë Supernaw Proctor has dedicated her life to maintaining and documenting the traditions of the Quapaw Tribe. She is well-known as a historian of Quapaw ancestry and has served as a researcher for 50 years. Her work documents Quapaw history, assisting families with ancestry and helping maintain Quapaw language preservation.

Ms. Proctor worked in partnership with the Quapaw Library reproducing the many research documents, annuity rolls, census rolls, family trees, heirship rolls and funeral home documents collected through her research work. She also published a collection of late 1800s and early 1900s Quapaw tribal member photographs.

Ms. Proctor worked as a hospital administrative assistant for 20 years until her retirement in 2003. In this role, she served as a patient advocate and helped families with their inquiries and concerns regarding the hospital.

Ms. Proctor also founded the Heh Yah Sisterhood, an Osage women’s social group.

JERELDINE “JERI” REDCORN

Caddo Nation

Jereldine “Jeri” Redcorn is recognized nationally and internationally for reviving the art of Caddo pottery. Mrs. Redcorn’s tribal name is Zhi-Bi-Quah, meaning River Woman, which is appropriate as she gathers clay at the river. She was born of a Caddo father and a Potawatomi mother. Raised on her grandmother’s Caddo land allotment in Colony, Okla., Mrs. Redcorn was a valedictorian and standout athlete in high school. She earned an academic and basketball scholarship to Wayland Baptist University, where she was named Baylor’s Top Senior Woman and graduated with a Bachelor of Science Degree. She later earned a Master of Education Administration from Pennsylvania State University.

Mrs. Redcorn’s Caddo pottery is displayed in many highly notable places across the nation. First Lady Michelle Obama selected her pot, “Intertwining Scrolls,” for display in the White House Oval Office. The pot was in many official White House Oval Office photos with President Obama, many world leaders and dignitaries.

The Smithsonian, Oklahoma Museum of History, Spiro Mounds and the Texas State Natural History Museum permanently display Mrs. Redcorn’s work. Don Henley of The Eagles, United States Supreme Court Justice Sandra Day O’Connor, a former U.S. Senator, and Oklahoma Supreme Court Justice Yvonne Kauger are all collectors of her work.

Mrs. Redcorn was honored as Artist-in-Residence at the Art Institute of Chicago, Rockefeller Fellow for the Chicago Newberry Library and John Hay Whitney Fellow at the University of Oklahoma. She has lectured at the Smithsonian, the Art Institute of Chicago, Yale University, Illinois University, University of North Carolina and other colleges and universities. She was profiled in the documentaries, “First People” and “We Shall Remain.”

Mrs. Redcorn was the founding director of the Oklahoma City Red Earth Festival in 1987. In 2008, she won a first-place award for traditional pottery at the Red Earth Festival. Mrs. Redcorn’s career in promoting art, culture and history includes the role of co-founder of The Jacobson House in Norman. She has also served on the Caddo Nation Tribal Council and the Caddo Heritage Museum Board. In addition, she is also the founder and current

chairperson of the Metro Caddo Cultural Club which promotes the health, longevity and awareness of the Caddo culture. Mrs. Redcorn continues to encourage younger Caddo people to become involved in many aspects of their heritage.

Mrs. Redcorn was married to Osage author Charles Redcorn, a previous AARP Indian Elder honoree, for 55 years until his death in 2017. Mrs. Redcorn splits her time living in Norman and Pawhuska, where she continues to create and fire her pottery to share with the world.

MARY DEAN RICE

Delaware Nation

Mary Dean Rice is the last living tribal citizen allottee of 169 original allottees and their siblings considered as possessing 4/4 degree of Delaware Nation Indian blood. She is the great-granddaughter of Black Beaver.

Ms. Rice was raised on a farm in Verden, Okla. on land allotted to her mother and father. She worked in the fields with the mules and helped with the family’s cotton and corn crops.

Ms. Rice and her husband of 50 years, Edward, once lived in California for and were known as “rock hounds.” They would travel to the desert and dig up rocks to break, grind, polish and cut for a stone dealer in Pasadena, Calif.

Ms. Rice is very proud of her hobbies which include sewing, knitting and traveling. She is well-known for making 300 lap quilts by hand. With the help of her niece, Ms. Rice donated them to dialysis patients in Texas.

June 16 is annually declared “Mary D. Rice Day” by a 2018 proclamation signed and approved by the Delaware Nation Executive Committee.

CALVIN ROCK

Cherokee Nation

Calvin Rock has always worked quietly to help others and is always the first to volunteer. Mr. Rock has served as a CASA volunteer and church deacon, shopped for his elderly neighbors and mowed lawns for widows and the elderly. He has also taken care of a rural Cherokee cemetery. He became a notary so he could enable shut-ins and others unable to travel to the polls to vote in Cherokee. Mr. Rock is well-known by the Cherokee Councilman of Three Rivers

District as a leader and trusted servant by members of the community. From distributing food baskets, inquiring about housing needs, providing rides to the clinic, or visiting local schools for programs supported by the Cherokee Nation, Mr. Rock is always present to lead and assist. He always lends a helping hand with a smile and good humor.

After retiring from Georgia Pacific Paper Company, Mr. Rock and his wife lived on the Navajo Reservation for four years. He drove an activity bus for the school and became a role model and mentor to the students. They knew he could be trusted and honored him by calling him “Uncle.” Mr. Rock was also highly attentive to the tribal elders and would offer them rides when he found them walking along the roads.

Mr. Rock is a dedicated volunteer and supporter of PFLAG, a non-profit organization uniting parents, families, and allies with the LGBTQ community. He has volunteered at many of its national and state conferences as a speaker and presenter.

CAROL ROSS

Caddo Nation

Carol Ross is well-known within the Caddo Nation as a natural nurturer, teacher, leader and caregiver, as well as a leader committed to achieving a positive future for the Caddo people. She currently serves as vice chairman of the Caddo Nation Tribal Council. As a former teacher led by her desire to educate, Vice Chairman Ross carries a kind and encouraging disposition and addresses all matters the same.

Vice Chairman Ross has been instrumental in creating a blended multigenerational environment within the Caddo Nation through a partnership with the Caddo National Childcare Program and the Caddo Nation Area Agency on Aging. The program brings children and elders together bi-monthly for activities and lunch dates. The children have grown in developing manners and conversation skills, as well as becoming comfortable with an older generation. The children are also being taught words in the Caddo language by Ms. Ross. In turn, the elders look forward to these visits and time with the children.

Vice Chairman Ross has a giving heart with no thought for what she will get in return. She is selfless with the stipends she receives as a Caddo Nation Tribal Council member and frequently donates this money to help support the Caddo Tribe travel plaza and restaurant.

Vice Chairman Ross is a dedicated mother and a grandmother who cares for her young grandson.

RONALD B. SHAW

Osage Nation

Ronald Blaine Shaw, MD, has dedicated his life to improving the health and well-being of all Osage Nation tribal members for more than 38 years. Dr. Shaw received his undergraduate degree from Dartmouth College, his medical degree from the University of Washington School of Medicine and his residency training at the University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center.

Dr. Shaw is from the Grayhorse District in Osage County and is actively involved in the Tribe’s traditional ceremonies. He was elected to the Osage Congress in 2014 and was instrumental in the passage of many bills and laws that improved Osage Nation health programs, including the creation of the Wah-Zha-Zhi Health Center in Pawhuska, Okla. He stepped down from this role to assume his current role as chief executive officer/chief medical officer for the Wah-Zha-Zhi Health Center. Dr. Shaw has taken an active role in improving operations, patient satisfaction and facility improvements. He has also adopted a strong position to help young Indigenous students learn about career opportunities in health service.

Dr. Shaw has also served on the Osage Nation’s Health Advisory/Authority boards and is a former Osage News health columnist. He also served as president of the Association of American Indian Physicians. Dr. Shaw is the former medical director for the Citizen Potawatomi, where he practiced internal medicine.

LINDA SKINNER

Choctaw Nation

Linda Skinner has dedicated her life to the students of Oklahoma through public education. Ms. Skinner has worked 47 years in education, conducting extensive work for both Oklahoma and Mississippi Choctaw Tribes. Her strength is developing curriculum that is both historical and contemporary, engaging young people in the knowledge of the first people of America. Ms. Skinner’s experience includes classroom teacher, curriculum specialist, professional development presenter, writer, gifted and talented educator and administrator.

Ms. Skinner’s career accomplishments include conducting seminars and workshops in culturally relevant curriculum development for Native American students, educators,

administrators and parents. Ms. Skinner has published 18 cultural learning books and pamphlets for preschool through 12th-grade students and teachers. She has also created a custom-made Choctaw language edition of the game, Scrabble, to incorporate history and culture into her language lessons.

Additionally, Ms. Skinner taught college and university classes in culturally relevant curriculum and multicultural education at the University of Washington - Seattle and the University of Central Oklahoma. Ms. Skinner served as lead technology teacher and trainer in instructional technology for Edmond Public Schools, as well as lead curriculum consultant for the Cherokee Nation Legal History Project. She also taught storytelling, journaling and leadership of “Retracing Our Footsteps” (TsaLaGi Trail of Tears) to Cherokee Nation teens during a two-week trip through traditional lands.

In addition to her classroom time, Ms. Skinner served as director of Indian Education for the Oklahoma State Department of Education. In this role, she facilitated and directed workshops that resulted in teacher curriculum guides on Oklahoma Indians. She also worked to change state policy for Native languages to be accepted for academic credit in Oklahoma public schools.

Ms. Skinner’s many cultural contributions include contributing to the Cherokee Nation writing project, curriculum developer for the Choctaw Nation and lesson planning for Native Daughters.

Ms. Skinner was named Oklahoma Indian Educator of the Year by the Oklahoma Council Indian Education in both 1990 and 2009. She was named Oklahoma Indian Woman of the Year by the Oklahoma Federation of Indian Women in 1990. In 2012, Ms. Skinner was nominated as Elder of the Year by the National Indian Education Association.

Ms. Skinner received a Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education with a minor in Spanish, as well as a Master of Science in Family Relations from Oklahoma State University.

EMMA LOUISE SMITH

Iowa Tribe

Emma Louise Smith is a member of the Iowa Tribe and is the third eldest living member within the Iowa Tribal Nation.

Mrs. Smith was raised and educated in the Perkins, Okla. area. She later moved to Shawnee, Okla. where she was a homemaker and raised five sons. She was later employed as a lead quality control technician for Siberling in Oklahoma City. Mrs. Smith served the Iowa Tribal Nation as tribal treasurer on the Iowa business committee during the 1970s. She also served on the Iowa Tribe Election Board and the grievance committee. Mrs. Smith is well-known seamstress, designing her own line of modified t-shirts with native ribbon work applique designs.

Mrs. Smith resides in Perkins with her husband, Danny, and is blessed to have many grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

CURTIS SNELL

Cherokee Nation

Curtis Snell is a well-known leader and advocate for Cherokees in the northeastern section of the Cherokee Nation. Mr. Snell is a lifelong resident of the Kansas, Kenwood and Leach areas of Oklahoma. Upon graduating from Kansas High School, Mr. Snell enlisted into military service for the U.S. Air Force. Serving from 1956 to 1960 during a period of the Cold War, he was stationed in Greenland, approximately 400 miles south of the North Pole.

After Mr. Snell’s military service, he successfully opened and operated his own steel construction company. His company was part of the construction team that built the first Cherokee Nation gaming facilities in Catoosa and West Siloam Springs in the early 1990s. His work helped spur extraordinary economic growth in the Cherokee Nation and Oklahoma.

Mr. Snell served on the Cherokee Nation Tribal Council between 2007 and 2017, representing District 9, which includes the southern half of Delaware County and an eastern portion of Mayes County. He also chaired the Natural Resources Council Committee and served on the Cherokee Nation Businesses Advisory Board, as well as the Housing Authority of the Cherokee Nation Advisory Board.

Mr. Snell also served on the Leach Public School Board of Education for 18 years. He is a firm believer in the power and benefit of education, and that educating youth is imperative to the survival of the Cherokee Nation.

Mr. Snell is a member of the Lowery Free Will Baptist Church in Twin Oaks, Okla. He and his wife, Leetha, were married for more than 45 years until her death in 2017. They have one daughter and four sons, 21 grandchildren and 16 great-grandchildren.

CHARLIE SOAP

Cherokee Nation

Charlie Soap has dedicated his entire career to strengthening Cherokee communities. A full-blooded bilingual Cherokee, Mr. Soap was married to Wilma Mankiller, the first woman elected to serve as Principal Chief of the Cherokee Nation. In the 1980s, they were instrumental in creating the Bell Waterline Project, a nearly 20-mile waterline to Bell, Okla. The Bell Waterline Project served many residents who had no indoor plumbing. Mr. Soap co-wrote, produced, co-directed and acted in the feature film, “Cherokee Word for Water,” a movie about the waterline project journey.

In 2002, Mr. Soap dedicated his career and talents to the construction of eight community buildings and numerous other critical initiatives for the Cherokee Nation. Mr. Soap has been lauded for his innovative approaches to community development and has received numerous awards, including the Common Cause Public Service Achievement Award and two National Certificates of Merit from the Department of Housing and Development. Mr. Soap has lectured on the subject at Cornell University, Arizona State University Law School, the University of Maryland, Tufts University, Indiana State University, Mayo Clinic and numerous other institutions.

Mr. Soap also worked with business, education and political leaders to establish the Boys and Girls Club of Tahlequah, and he served as its founding director. Under Mr. Soap’s leadership, the Boys and Girls Club operated a comprehensive summer enrichment program which Tahlequah Public Schools developed into the first after-school program in the school system. The collaboration between the Boys and Girls Club and the Tahlequah Public Schools has served as a national model.

Mr. Soap also served as the Oklahoma area director of the Christian Children’s Fund, as well as dedicating seven years to serve as director of the Cherokee Nation Community Development Department.

MARVIN STEPSON JR.

Osage Nation

Marvin Stepson has led an authentic life of service in his commitment and dedication to the legal affairs of Indian Country. Judge Stepson attended law school in 1974 and received his Juris Doctorate from the University of New Mexico School of Law in 1977. He is also a U.S. Army veteran.

During his 42-year career, Judge Stepson served in various capacities, including work for the Oklahoma Crime Commission. He also helped form the Oklahoma Indian Police Academy at Chilocco. Additionally, Judge Stepson worked as a prosecutor at the Court of Indian Offenses in Anadarko, as well as tax commissioner for both the Absentee Shawnee and Osage Nations. He also served as a Supreme Court justice for the Sac and Fox, Citizen Potawatomi and the Kickapoo Nations, and as a tribal judge for the Pawnee and Ponca Nations. Additionally, Judge Stepson worked for the Bureau of Indian Affairs executing probates across Indian Country. For the past 13 years, he has served as the Osage Nation’s first trial court judge, adjudicating matters both criminal and civil.

IDA SUE STOPP

Cherokee Nation

Ida Sue Stopp’s life has revolved around a life of service to individuals of all ages. A woman of deep faith, Mrs. Stopp continually studies and learns so that she may be able to teach something new whether it is health-related or from the Bible.

In her early years, Mrs. Stopp was an Honor Society member and graduate of Sequoyah High School. Her thirst for education and learning led her to earn two associate degrees and a bachelor’s degree in social work. She also attended the University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center and received a Master of Public Health.

Mrs. Stopp’s next stop in life led her to a career within Oklahoma’s prison system. She worked as a corrections officer at the women’s prison at McAlester, Okla. Mrs. Stopp also worked at the Oklahoma State Penitentiary Maximum Security Unit where she sponsored an Indian club which helped male prisoners hold a powwow and raise money for a needy family. Mrs. Stopp also served as a social worker in Washington State in the early years of the Indian Child Welfare Act, where she was known as the “Indian Specialist.” When

she returned to Oklahoma, Mrs. Stopp worked as a community health representative program manager and a public health educator. These roles allowed her to demonstrate concepts of a healthier lifestyle and impact the rate of heart disease and diabetes among the native population.

After retirement, Mrs. Stopp continued involvement in her community of Salina, Okla., where she helped establish and voluntarily manage a shelter for homeless women and their children. Mrs. Stopp also served on the Salina Chamber of Commerce board of directors, where she represented Native American citizens.

Today, Mrs. Stopp fills her time in part by substitute teaching in Adair County schools, primarily for kindergarten, first and second grade students. She also serves as an elementary school classroom foster grandparent and holds the honor of being selected as Mayes and Delaware County Foster Grandparent of the Year. Mrs. Stopp is also part of a gospel singing duo with her husband, Fred.

THURMAN RAY TAHSUDA

Comanche Tribe

Thurman Ray Tahsuda was 18 years of age when he began service in the 65th Infantry Division under the command of George S. Patton, U.S. 3rd Army. Mr. Tahsuda fought in the German and Austrian campaigns in the final eastward thrust to defeat Hitler’s Third Reich. Mr. Tahsuda also guarded war criminals at the Dachau Concentration Camp and assisted in the repatriation of the Russian nationals. His honors include the Combat Infantry Badge, a Distinguished Unit citation, the Bronze Star, European African Middle Eastern Campaign Medal with two battle stars, the Army Occupation Medal, the American Campaign Medal, the WWII Victory Medal and two Overseas Combat Bars.

Mr. Tahsuda is a member of the Kiowa Black Leggings Warrior Society and a member of the Comanche Indian Veterans Association.

In his childhood days, Mr. Tahsuda began his education in a two-room rural country school in Cotton County, Okla. He graduated from Walters High School, earned an associate degree from Cameron Junior College, and furthered his education at Southwestern State College where he earned bachelor’s and master’s degrees.

Mr. Tahsuda’s life goal was to become a coach. Throughout his teaching and coaching years, he influenced and encouraged many students in Devol, Warren, Duke and Altus, Okla. communities before coming to Anadarko High School. Mr. Tahsuda completed his educational journey by becoming the superintendent of Riverside Indian School.

His humble beginnings and raising four children gave him the necessary tools to help improve the lives of his students, many of which recognized the positive influence Mr. Tahsuda had on their lives. Some of his students still call him “Coach.”

Mr. Tahsuda lives in Anadarko, Okla. with his wife of 68 years and is surrounded by loving family and friends. He continually instills the importance of educational values to his grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

CECELIA IRENE TALLCHIEF

Osage Nation

Cecelia Irene Tallchief has spent the majority of her life in service to American Indian people. Mrs. Tallchief is a former two-term Osage National councilwoman, a position she was elected to in 1994.

Mrs. Tallchief is a strong proponent of ensuring quality Indian health care. She is a graduate of Pittsburgh State University and spent many years serving as a registered nurse. Her career took her all across America, and she was fortunate to work in many different tribal health facilities. Following her retirement from nursing, Mrs. Tallchief turned her sights to helping the Osage people expand their health care services. She has served in various capacities to the Osage Nation’s Health Advisory Board for many years. Collectively, Mrs. Tallchief has dedicated more than 26 years of service to the Osage Nation and its people.

Mrs. Tallchief is incredibly active in her Osage culture and heads her family’s camp every June within the Grayhorse District, located in Fairfax, Okla. Each year, she opens her camp to family, friends and visitors who frequent the Grayhorse In-Lon-Schka ceremonial dances. Mrs. Tallchief has also recently helped establish the Wak’on Owatsi, or dance for Osage women. This event seeks to honor the contributions of Osage women and the important role they play in their community. Mrs. Tallchief is a model Osage mother, grandmother and great-grandmother who has spent her life advocating on behalf of her Osage and Indian people.

Muscogee Creek Nation

George Thompson Jr. is a vital culture bearer for the Muscogee Creek Nation and is a fluent speaker of the Muscogee language. A resident of Henryetta, Okla., he is the long-standing Mekko of Hickory Ground, or Oce Vpofv. Mekko Thompson was chosen for this position more than 40 years ago by the elders based on his suitability for the role. Mekko Thompson is responsible for the grounds members and the keeping of the grounds in an ethical manner. This position is a lifetime role, and Mekko Thompson has been instrumental in leading efforts against the desecration of the ancestors’ burial grounds in the Alabama Muscogee Creek homelands.

In addition, Mekko Thompson was appointed a Muscogee (Creek) Nation Supreme Court judge for a six-year term that recently ended in June of 2019.

RICHARD TILDEN

Pawnee Tribe

Richard Tilden is a full-blooded member of the Pawnee Tribe. He attended high school at Haskell Institute in Lawrence, Kan. Mr. Tilden earned associate degrees in business administration and gaming administration from Deganawidah-Quetzalcoatl University in Davis, Cal. He also earned a Bachelor of Arts in Business Administration from Haskell Indian Nations University in Lawrence, Kans.

Mr. Tilden spent his career dedicated to working for the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. He served as an investigator with the Office of Resolution Management. In this role, Mr. Tilden investigated claims of discrimination as defined under Employment Equal Opportunity guidelines. With only 138 total investigators, Mr. Tilden had the highest resolution rate among all investigators across the United States.

Mr. Tilden’s leadership roles include service as president for the Oklahoma Haskell Alumni Association, past member of the Pawnee Business Council, past member of the Deganawidah-Quetzalcoatl University board of directors, U.S. Marine Corps Historical Foundation board of directors and vice president of National Active and Retired Federal Employees Association - Local 278 in Tulsa. Mr. Tilden is also active in supporting Vietnam veteran organizations.

FRANCENA WAHWEAH WAHPEPAH

Kickapoo Tribe

Francena Wahweah Wahpepah is a full-blooded Kickapoo born in 1930. While her three older siblings went to a Native American boarding school, Mrs. Wahpepah’s parents chose to send her and her youngest siblings Harrah Public Schools. Her first language was Kickapoo, but after attending public school she lost her ability to speak Kickapoo although she could still understand her language. In 1951, the Bureau of Indian Affairs began recruiting Native American women to work at the new Sylvania plant in Shawnee, and Mrs. Wahpepah began a seven-year employment stent there until she began a new career with McLoud Public Schools. Mrs. Wahpepah served as a teacher’s assistant and Kickapoo interpreter for the elementary school, as well as holding the role as director of Indian Education. Additionally, she also earned an associate degree from St. Gregory’s University. Mrs. Wahpepah retired from McLoud Public Schools after 24 years.

Mrs. Wahpepah inherited her mother’s talent for making traditional Kickapoo dresses and men’s ribbon shirts. During her retirement, she remains busy sewing for family and friends, usually free of charge. She and her husband, Lawrence, stressed education to their three daughters. The daughters all attended college, and two carried on her legacy of teaching.

STEPHEN G. WALL

Chickasaw Nation

Pastor Stephen G. Wall comes from a long service legacy of family members dedicated to the spiritual needs of their congregants. Pastor Wall’s father was Pete Wall Jr., a Choctaw minister who served various Indian churches. His grandfather, Abel Brown, was a Chickasaw minister.

Pastor Wall serves as the lead minister for the Ardmore Indian Baptist Church. In this role, Pastor Wall provides spiritual direction and leadership to youth and elders in his congregation and beyond. The Ardmore Indian Baptist Church is part of the Chi-Ka-Sha Baptist Association and participates in the Falls Creek Baptist Indian Assembly annual Christian family encampment.

Pastor Wall is a devoted father, grandfather and great-grandfather.

RHONDA WEAVER

Quapaw Nation

Rhonda Weaver is an honored and respected member of the Quapaw Nation, well-known for her efforts to raise awareness about issues faced by elders in Indian Country. Because of these efforts, Ms. Weaver has earned the respect and gratitude of those for whom and with whom she serves, her church family, her community and her peers within the Quapaw Nation.

Ms. Weaver has served her tribal neighbors and friends in various capacities both in and out of her career with the Quapaw Nation, where she has been employed for more than 23 years. Ms. Weaver currently serves as director of the Quapaw Nation Elders Center. She has also maintained the position of Title VI-Caregiver programs director for more than 15 years. Ms. Weaver also currently serves on the Eastern Oklahoma Board Member for National Indian Council on Aging and holds an advisory position for the Grand Gateway Area Agency on Aging. In addition, she serves as an alternate on the National Association of Area Agencies on Aging Board. Previous service includes peer consultant providing training to other Title VI program directors, as well as treasurer for the Oklahoma Indian Council on Aging.

Ms. Weaver has dedicated her personal time outside of work to serve the Quapaw Tribe. She works tirelessly to support various fundraising events such as the All Tribes Education Consortium and the Black Elk Brisket Burnout, supporting educational scholarships to Native Americans. She is also often called upon to be the head cook for traditional funeral wakes and memorial dinners. Ms. Weaver can be found in all weather conditions working at the mobile food pantry to help feed the less fortunate. In addition, Ms. Weaver always finds time to serve as an active member of her church. She is deeply committed to her husband, Mark, of 43 years, her three daughters and her four grandchildren.

BEN WHITE

Chickasaw Nation

Ben White is a recognized servant to the Edmond, Okla. community. As an Edmond firefighter, he became wellknown in his service and dedication to his community. Mr. White was also actively involved in the 1995 Oklahoma City bombing recovery efforts. After retiring from the City of Edmond as a battalion chief, Mr. White began to focus on the professional side of his pottery. Today, he is an active award-winning Chickasaw potter and artist.

Mr. White continues to serve the community and congregation of Highland Park Baptist Church, where he has been a member since the 1970s. He previously served as the chairman of deacons, and he still serves as an active deacon today. Mr. White also currently serves as chairman of the church’s properties committee. Mr. White was named Highland Park Baptist Church Man of the Year in 1993 and again in 2013, the only person to win that award twice in church history.

RICHARD DEAN WILLIAMS

Cheyenne and Arapaho Tribes

Richard Dean Williams, a half-Cheyenne and half-Arapaho member of the Cheyenne and Arapaho Tribes, is committed to love, honor and respect the ceremonial and cultural ways of his tribe. He is the second eldest of a family of 13 and was born and raised in Canton, Okla., where he still resides today.

Mr. Williams is a U.S. Marine Corps veteran, and he proudly served in the Vietnam War in 1967-1968. Mr. Williams continues to serve on various color guard groups for many community events and powwows throughout the year.

Mr. Williams previously served as a legislator for the Cheyenne and Arapaho TribesArapaho District One (A-1), serving Canton and surrounding communities’ district tribal members. During this elected role, he did not accept a salary and served his community and fellow tribal members out of true dedication to the tribe.

Mr. Williams has worked tirelessly throughout his life to overcome any situation, and this translates to others through his ever-present respect to all and willingness to help anyone in need.

Kaw Nation

Lynn Williams has been dedicated to Native Americans her entire life. Early on, Chairwoman Williams committed her life to the health and well-being of Native Americans. Her endeavors took her throughout Indian Country where she worked for the U.S. Public Health Service as a nurse and then a nurse practitioner, continually advocating for abused Native women and providing health care for all her patients.

Chairwoman Williams’ career in Indian health spanned 25 years, and she eventually retired as a U.S. Public Health Service captain. Post-retirement, Chairwoman Williams felt a calling to return to her home and her own people, and she began serving on a domestic violence board. Ms. Williams’ expertise in all areas of abuse has enabled her to assist in the development of the Kaw Nation’s Family Trauma Healing Center, serving both Native and non-Native American women throughout Kay County. Chairwoman Williams’ experiences upon returning to the Kaw Nation lead her to further advocate and care for her own people. In 2016, Chairwoman Williams was elected vicechair of the Kaw Nation. In 2018, she was elected chairwoman. As well as working hard every day as the leader of the Kaw Nation, she continues to advocate for all Native Americans through her participation on the Kaw Nation Health Board and advising the Family Trauma Healing Center.

EVONA “EVE” WILLIAMS

Ponca Tribe

Evona “Eve” Williams is a highly engaged Ponca Tribe member committed to advocacy for Native people and communities. Ms. Williams moved to Dallas under the Native American relocation project of the United States Government, and she continues to live there today. She is a charter member of the Dallas Indian United Methodist Church. Ms. Williams has held many offices in the church including lay speaker, United Methodist Women president, children’s coordinator, Silver Feathers president, lay delegate, trustee and pastor-parish relations committee chairman.

In addition, Ms. Williams was instrumental in the formation of the Dallas Inter-Tribal Center in the 1970s. She continues to be active in the Dallas Native community and is a strong advocate for Native Americans in the urban area.

BETTY JO ROWLAND-WOLFE

Wichita and Affiliated Tribes

Betty Jo Rowland-Wolfe has served the Wichita and Affiliated Tribes people and her community in multiple capacities over the span of several decades. Ms. Wolfe’s dedication to helping her people and being a constant participant in cultural and government activities has led to the passage of her knowledge to multiple generations.

Ms. Wolfe is a long-time member of the Wichita Service Club since the 1980s. Ms. Wolfe was instrumental in leading activities to honor veterans and cook for veteran tribal member funerals. Ms. Wolfe was appointed as a commissioner on the Wichita and Affiliated Tribes Wichita Housing Authority Board from 1995-2012. She also served as an election official in many tribal elections over the years. Ms. Wolfe has two daughters, two grandsons, and four greatgrandchildren. She is eagerly awaiting another baby born to her family soon with a greatgreat-granddaughter on the way.

AMY SUE JONES YARGEE

Euchee (Yuchi) Tribe

Amy Sue Jones Yargee is of the Deer Clan and a member of the Sand Creek ceremonial ground. Her great uncle, Chitto Harjo, was a leader and orator in the Muscogee Creek Nation at the turn of the 20th century. Mrs. Yargee is wellknown among the Euchee (Yuchi) Tribe as an extraordinary person who always places her traditions, family, community and her tribe before herself. She has taught her daughters, grandchildren and great-grandchildren the traditional ways of the Euchee (Yuchi) people, as well as many others who have come to her for her teachings.

Mrs. Yargee has served on the Cromwell Indian Community board as chairperson for two years. She is currently a member of the Euchee (Yuchi) Council, a position she has held for six years. Mrs. Yargee also volunteered with the Alabama Quassarte Princess committee for numerous years, decorating the pageant, donating food, decorations, chaperoning, loaning her car for parades and much more. She also volunteered many years for the Muscogee Creek Nation Junior Olympics and the Alabama Quassarte Redhawks team.

Ms. Yargee earned an associate degree in technology from Oklahoma State Tech in 1984, as well as an associate degree in science from Seminole Junior College in 1986. She graduated from East Central University in 1990 with Bachelor of Science degree. Ms. Yargee retired from her career with the U.S. Government in 1997.

Citizen Potawatomi Nation

Margaret Zientek descends from a large Citizen Potawatomi family, members of whom previously served in elected leadership positions including the tribal chairmanship. Born and raised nearby the tribal headquarters between Shawnee and Tecumseh, Okla., Mrs. Zientek and her family have long been involved with tribal gatherings, governance and affairs. After graduating from Northeastern State University, Mrs. Zientek worked for the Texas Indian Commission at the Alabama-Coushatta Tribe of Texas. Returning to the Citizen Potawatomi Nation jurisdiction to be closer to family, Mrs. Zientek came to the Citizen Potawatomi Nation 477 employment and training program as a client in search of a job. She was quickly placed into employment and played an integral role in the 477 program, serving as assistant director for more than two decades. Mrs. Zientek is a regular witness before the U.S. Congress and with federal agencies concerning the effectiveness of the 477 employment and training programs.

Closer to home, she has been a tireless advocate for tribal programs utilizing federal funds supporting the community’s most vulnerable populations. Whether introducing the requirements for citizens needing to access low-income heating assistance program funds or advocating on behalf of the Citizen Potawatomi Nation Tribal Felon Reintegration Program, Mrs. Zientek is at the forefront of promoting their efficacy.

In times of need, Mrs. Zientek leads the organization of disaster response initiatives for storm victims. Under the tribal 477 employment and training program, Mrs. Zientek overseas the collection and distribution centers for families needing necessities as they recover from natural disasters. She also oversees the collection, organization and distribution of more than 200 Thanksgiving and Christmas dinner boxes for families in need.

Mrs. Zientek is a cultural guide for the annual Potawatomi Leadership Program participants. The program brings in Citizen Potawatomi of college-age from across the country to learn about the cultural, historical and contemporary affairs of their tribe. As house mother, Mrs. Zientek lives with the 10 participants through the six-week program, providing guidance and mentorship on a range of issues. Mrs. Zientek is also well-known throughout the Nation as an on-call seamstress for ribbon shirts, shawls and other regalia during powwow season. During the annual Citizen Potawatomi Family Reunion Festival and Powwow, she can typically be found as a top finisher in the fry bread making contest or women’s southern cloth dance competition.

Past Indian Elder Honors Recipients

ABSENTEE SHAWNEE TRIBE

Ms. Johnnie Mae Bettelyoun

Ms. Mary Birdtail

Mr. George Blanchard

Ms. Redena Blanchard Miller

Mrs. Charlene EdwardsWhittington

Ms. Martha Bull Frog Ellis Edwards

Ms. Jenifer Sloan

Ms. Esteline Sloan Schulenberg

Mr. Larry Spybuck

Mr. Melpherd Switch

Ms. Meredith Wahpekeche

Ms. Pauline White Wahpepah

Ms. Reta Marie Wilson-Harjo

ALABAMA-QUASSARTE TRIBAL TOWN

Mrs. Sinah BirdCreek

Mr. F.B. Fish

Mrs. Evelyn McLemore

Ms. Diana Moppin

Mr. Turner Scott

Mrs. Lucinda Tiger

Mr. Jack Yargee

Mekko Robert L. Yargee

Chief Tarpie Yargee

Ms. Winey Yargee

APACHE TRIBE

Mr. William (Bill) Tennyson Berry

Mr. Harry Kaudlekaule

Mr. Gregg Klinekole Jr.

Mr. Nathan (Jumbo) Tselee

CADDO NATION

Col. Louis (Buddy) Bedoka

Dr. Guyneth Bedoka Cardwell

Ms. Ann Louis Bedoka Donaghey

Ms. Gayle Cussen Satepauhoodle

Ms. Mary Lou Davis

Mr. Randlett Edmonds

Ms. Billie Ruth Hoff

Mr. John Wayne Kionut

Ms. Janie Tartsah

CADDO

NATION, KAW NATION & OTOE-MISSOURIA TRIBE

Mr. Dwight Pickering

CHEROKEE NATION

Dr. Richard Allen

Mr. Buel Anglen

Mr. Jack Baker

Ms. Dianne Barker Harrold

Mrs. Karyn Braswell

Ms. Rosa Carter

Mr. John Wayne Cloud

Ms. Beverly Cowan

Sgt. 1st Class Ret. Norman Crowe

Ms. Carol “Jane” Davis

Mr. Gary Farris

Dr. John Farris

Mr. Bill Glass Jr.

Mr. Joe Grayson

Mrs. Winnie Guess-Perdue

Mr. James Franklin Hail

Mr. Dennis “Jay” Hannah

Dr. Pamela Jumper Thurman

Mr. John Ketcher

Mrs. Doris “Coke” Lane Meyer

Ms. Rebecca “Becky” Meyer

Mrs. Marcella Morton

Ms. Mary Rector Aitson

Mr. Jimmy L. Reeder

Ms. Lucinda Robbins

Ms. Fan Robinson

Mr. Crosslin Fields Smith

Mr. Henry Smoke

Mr. Bud Andrew Squirrel

Mr. Hickory Starr

Ms. Ollie Starr

Ms. Betty Starr-Barker

Mr. Ross Swimmer

Mr. Joe T. Thornton

Mr. Raymond Vann

Mrs. Ronda Williams

CHEROKEE NATION & OSAGE NATION

Mr. J. C. Elliot

CHEYENNE AND ARAPAHO TRIBES

Col. Ralph Dru

Ms. Irene D. Hamilton

Chief Lawrence Hart

Dr. Henrietta Mann

Mr. Charles Pratt

Mr. Harvey Phillip Pratt

Mr. Moses Starr Jr.

Mr. Raymond “Red” Stone Calf

Traditional Chief Allen Sutton

Mrs. Viola Sutton-Hatch

Mr. William Tall Bear Sr.

Ms. Wanda Whiteman

Mr. Robert Wilson

CHEYENNE AND ARAPAHO TRIBES & SIOUX U.S.

Mr. Matheson Hamilton

CHEYENNE AND ARAPAHO TRIBES & APACHE TRIBE

Mr. Albert GreyEagle

CHICKASAW NATION

Mr. William “Bill” Bomboy

Mrs. Jeraldine “Jerry” Brown

Mr. Kennedy Brown

Ms. Pauline Carpenter-Brown

Mr. Thomas W. Cooper

Ms. Irene Digby

Mr. Bill Duckworth

Mrs. Ramona Eyachabbe

Ms. Glenda Galvan

Ms. Mary Jo Green

Mr. Don Hayes

Mr. Ron Hayes

Mr. Melvin Imotichey

Ms. Rose Jefferson

Hon. Mary Jane Lowery

Mr. Neal McCaleb

Past Indian Elder Honors Recipients

Ms. Merry Monroe

Mr. Ron Parker

Mr. Michael Reed

Ms. Thelma Lucile (Chincie) Ross

Ms. Lucy Belle Schultz

Mrs. Sue Simmons

Ms. Barbara Smith

Ms. Mary Smith

Mr. Stanley Smith

Ms. Towana Spivey

Ms. Patricia Ann Woods

CHICKASAW NATION & CHOCTAW NATION

Mr. John Edwin Anderson

Mr. Levi Orphan

CHOCTAW NATION

Mr. Jack Austin Sr.

Mrs. Lorene Blaine

Rev. Bertram Bobb

Mrs. Doretha Bowen

Ms. Mary Ann Brittan

Mr. Gilbert Mike “Choc” Charleston

Mr. Delton Cox

Mr. Thomas J. Dry

Mrs. Sue Folsom

Mr. Ernest Hooser

Ms. Nellie Hunter

Mr. Sylvester Moore

Mr. Walter Phelps

Ms. Norma Price

Mr. Leo Smallwood

Ms. Marcie Smith

Mr. Claude Sumner

Mrs. Rosa Taylor Gilmore

Ms. Harriet Tehauno

Ms. Betty War

Ms. Linda Watson

Rev. Donald Eugene (Gene) Wilson

Ms. Evangeline Wilson

Mrs. Robin Woodley

CHOCTAW NATION & CHICKASAW NATION

Mrs. Tewanna Edwards

CITIZEN POTAWATOMI NATION

Mr. David Barrett

Chairman John “Rocky” Barrett

Ms. Loretta Barrett-Oden

Vice Chairman Linda Capps

Mr. Leon Cross

Ms. Mary Deathrage

Ms. Beverly Hughes

Mr. Alan Kelly

Mr. Joe Miller

Mr. William Nadeau

Ms. Mary Ann Powell

Ms. Carmelita Skeeter

Mr. Doyle Thompson

COMANCHE NATION

Chairman Wallace Coffey

Mr. Kenneth Coosewoon

Mrs. Rita Coosewoon

Mr. Conrad Galey

Mrs. Barbara Goodin

Ms. LaDonna Harris

Mr. Barthell Little Chief

Ms. Martha (Adele) Mihesuah

Ms. Josephine Myers-Wapp

Mr. Bill Shoemate

Mr. Jack Shoemate

Ms. Sherry Smith

Mr. Milton Sovo

Mrs. Deloris R. Twohatchet

Dr. Robbie Wahnee

Dr. Linda Sue Warner

Rev. Videll Yackeschi

COMANCHE NATION & KIOWA TRIBE

Mr. Leon Hawzipta

Ms. Cornelia Quoetone-Karty

CREEK NATION & SEMINOLE NATION

Ms. Lahoma Schultz, Ph.D.

DELAWARE NATION

Ms. Kelly Flow

Ms. Georgia Gallegos

Mr. Tom Holder

Mr. Frank Osborne Jr.

Ms. Linda Sue Poolaw

Mr. Jim VanDeman

Ms. Glayds Yackeyonny

DELAWARE TRIBE

Mr. Howard Barnes

Chief Chester (Chet) Brooks

Councilman Larry “Joe” Brooks

Mr. Raymond M. Cline

Mr. Jerry Douglas

Asst. Chief Bonnie Jo Griffith

Mrs. Annette Ketchum

Mr. Dee Ketchum

Mr. Lewis Ketchum

Mr. Charles Randall

Mrs. Bonnie Thaxton

Ms. Mary Watters

EASTERN SHAWNEE TRIBE

Mr. John Daughtery Jr.

Mr. Charles Enyart

Ms. Virginia Fanning

Ms. Beverly Sue Hauser Rendel

Mrs. Norma Kraus

Chief Glenna Wallace

EUCHEE (YUCHI) TRIBE

Mr. Richard A. Grounds, Ph.D.

Ms. Maxine Wildcat Barnett

EUCHEE (YUCHI) TRIBE & MUSCOGEE (CREEK) NATION

Mrs. Vada Foster Tiger Nichwander

Past Indian Elder Honors Recipients

EUCHEE (YUCHI) TRIBE, MUSCOGEE (CREEK)

NATION & CHOCTAW

NATION

Mr. Arthur K. James

FORT SILL APACHE TRIBE

Mr. Leland Michael Darrow

Mr. Lupe Gooday Sr.

Mr. Benedict Kawaykla

Mr. Michael Pratt Kawaykla

IOWA TRIBE

Mr. Eugene Big Soldier

Ms. Linda Big Soldier

Mr. Jacob “Jake” Big Solider Jr.

Ms. Joyce Big Soldier-Miller

Ms. Ruby Nell Gibson Logan

Ms. E. Bernadette Huber

Ms. Joan Mayes

Mr. Victor Roubidoux

Ms. Janice Rowe-Kurak

Ms. Mae Sine

Ms. Jackie Sine Young

Mrs. Rachel Lynn Walkup

KAW NATION

Ms. Mary Butler

Mr. Charles (Sonny) Holloway

Mr. Curtis Kekahbah

Mr. Guy Munroe

Mr. Luther Pepper

Ms. Jacque Secondine-Hensley

Ms. Wanda Stone

Ms. Tahagena (Gena) Warren

KAW NATION & MUSCOGEE (CREEK) NATION

Mr. James Pepper Henry

KAW NATION & OTOE-MISSOURIA TRIBE

Ms. Eva Munroe-Jones

KIALEGEE TRIBAL TOWN

Ms. Jennie Anderson-Lillard

Ms. Leola Barnett

Mr. Jacob Fixico

Ms. June Fixico

Rev. Bill Hobia

Ms. Brenda Leftwich

Ms. Susie Martinez

KICKAPOO TRIBE

Mr. Clarence Deer

Ms. Judy Deer-Coser

Ms. Jenell Downs

Ms. Juanita Johnson

Ms. Emma Murdock

Mr. Cecil Wahpekeche

Mr. Lawrence Wahpepah

Mr. Bob White

KIOWA TRIBE

Ms. Sharron Ahtone-Harjo

Mr. James Anquoe

Ms. Arlene Sue Bates Caesar

Mr. Nelson BigBow

Mr. Jerry C. Bread

Mr. Parker Emhoolah

Mr. Gary Kodaseet

Honorable Philip LuJan

Dr. N. Scott Momaday

Mr. Burt Patadal

Mr. John Pinezaddleby

Mr. Luke Toyebo Sr.

Mr. Gene E. Tsatoke

Mr. George (Chuck) Tsoodle

Mr. Vernon Tsoodle

Ms. Modina Waters

Ms. Dorothy Whitehorse-DeLaune

Ms. Julian Q. Whorton

Dr. Diane Willis

Ms. Francine Worthington

KIOWA TRIBE & APACHE TRIBE

Mr. Duke Tsoodle

KIOWA TRIBE & CHOCTAW NATION

Mr. Dixon Palmer

Mr. Lyndreth L. (Tugger) Palmer

Ms. Georgette “G.G.” PalmerSmith

Mr. Matthew (Mac) Whitehorse

MIAMI TRIBE

Mr. James Battese

Mr. Royce Carter

Mrs. Judy C. Davis

Mr. Tim LaFalier

Mr. Jerry Lankford

Mr. Frank Leonard

Mrs. Nadine Mayfield

Mr. Wilbur (Webb) Tipton

Ms. Mildred Walker

Mayor Neal Watson

MODOC TRIBE

Ms. Judy Cobb

Chief Bill Follis

Mr. Phil Follis

Mr. Ted McCullum

Ms. Ramona Rosiere

Mr. Jack W. Shadwick

MUSCOGEE (CREEK) NATION

Mr. Fredo (Chubby) Anderson

Ms. Jeanetta Anderson

Ms. Mary Arkeketa

Mr. Bill Barnett

Mr. Turner Bear Jr.

Mr. Gene Bible

Ms. Johnnie Brasuell

Mr. Allen Colbert

Mr. Phillip Coon

Mr. George Coser

Dr. Peter G. Coser

Mr. Bill J. Davis

Ms. Myrtle Denney

Mrs. DeLois Louise Dunzy Roulston

Past Indian Elder Honors Recipients

Principal Chief A.D. Ellis

Ms. Leona Fish

Principal Chief James Floyd

Ms. Pauline Haney

Mr. Eugene Harjo

Mrs. Joy Harjo-Sapulpa

Justice Leah Harjo-Ware

Mr. Keeper Johnson

Ms. Matilda King

Ms. Candy Fish Klumpp

Ms. Rebecca Lindsey

Ms. Rosalee “Rose” Marshall

Ms. Susie “Sue” Morgan

Mr. Scott Roberts

Mr. George Phillip

Mr. Jon Mark Tiger

Mr. Richard Ray Whitman

Former Speaker Thomas Leroy

Yahola

OSAGE NATION

Ms. Jerri Jean Branstetter

Ms. Anita Fields

Ms. Mary Gray-Bighorse

Mr. Charles Eugene “Chuck”

Hessert

Ms. Nancy Keil

Mr. Charles Lookout

Mr. H. Mongraine Lookout

Ms. Anita Lookout-West

Capt. Richard Luttrell Sr.

Mrs. Sheri Mashburn

Mr. Bill Mashunkashey

Mr. Steven Pratt

Mr. Charles Harold RedCorn

Councilwomen Kathryn RedCorn

Ms. Mary Elizabeth Ricketts

Mr. Romaine Shackelford

Mr. George A. Shannon

Mr. George E. Tallchief

Mr. Tim Tallchief

Ms. Julia Wilson

Ms. Rosemary Wood

OSAGE NATION, KAW NATION & PONCA TRIBE

Ms. Martha Spotted Bear

OTOE-MISSOURIA TRIBE

Ms. Joan Aitson

Asst. Attorney General Susan Arkeketa

Ms. Kim Arkeketa-McHenry

Ms. Annette Arkeketa-Rendon

Mr. Don Childs

Mr. Hank Childs

Mrs. Barbara Childs Walton

Mr. Joseph Dent

Ms. Lorena DeRoin

Dr. Aaron Gawhega

Ms. Cornelia Mae Gosney

Ms. Freida Homeratha

Ms. Dorcas Kent Williams

Ms. Arkeketa LeClair

Mr. Baptiste Shunatona

Ms. Virginia Thomas

Mr. Randall Whitehorn

OTTAWA TRIBE

Mr. Larry Angelo

Ms. Ethel Cook

Mrs. Charla Dawes

Ms. Sharon Den Hoed

Ms. Coweta Ulrey

PAWNEE NATION

Mr. Neill Bayhylle

Mr. Bruce Caesar

Mr. Henry Chapman Stoneroads

Ms. Cordelia Clapp

Mrs. Deb Echo-Hawk

Mr. John E. Echo-Hawk

Mr. Marshall R. Gover

Mr. George Elton Howell

Mr. Charles A. Lone Chief Jr.

Mr. Duane Pratt Sr.

Mr. Roy Weeks Taylor

PAWNEE NATION & WICHITA AND AFFILIATED TRIBES

Mrs. Dawna Hare

PEORIA TRIBE

Miss Annette Black

Mr. Wayne Blalock

Mr. Emmett (Bud) Ellis

Chief John P. Froman

Ms. Carolyn Garren-Ritchey

Ms. Roberta Lindsly

PONCA TRIBE

Mr. Tony Arkeketa

Ms. Therese Buffalohead

Mrs. Casey Camp-Horinek

Mr. Louis Headman

Mr. John Lee Kemble

Mr. Christopher Lee LittleCook

Mr. Steve Pensoneau

Ms. Barbara Warner

Ms. Maxine Williams-Thompson

QUAPAW TRIBE & PAWNEE NATION

Mrs. Charlene Leading Fox Button

QUAPAW TRIBE

Chief John Berrey

Mr. Lloyd Buffalo

Ms. Grace Goodeagle

Mr. Jim Greenfeather

Ms. Barbara Kyser-Collier

Ms. Jean Ann Lambert

Mr. Henry McNeer Ellick

Ms. Florence Whitecrow Matthews

QUAPAW TRIBE & OSAGE NATION

Ms. Ardina Revard Moore

SAC AND FOX NATION

Ms. Peggy Acoya

Ms. Judy Crain Baggett

Ms. Mary Ellis

Mr. Keith Franklin

Ms. Stella M. Nullake-Nanaeto

Past Indian Elder Honors Recipients

Ms. Lena (Ellis) Pennock Clark

Principal Chief Elizabeth Rhoads

Mr. John R. (Jack) Thorpe

Mr. William Thorpe

Mr. Freeland Wood

SAC AND FOX NATION & IOWA TRIBE

Ms. Stella Wilson

SAC AND FOX NATION & MISSISSIPPI CHOCTAW TRIBE

Dr. (Rev.) Emerson Falls

SAC AND FOX NATION & MUSCOGEE (CREEK) NATION

Ms. Mary Frances McCormick

SEMINOLE NATION

Ms. Diana Autaubo

Ms. Velma Coker

Asst. Chief Ella Colman

Ms. Gracie Dailey

Ms. Eula Doonkeen

Mr. Kotcha Doonkeen

Ms. Mary Ann Emarthle

Ms. Nancy Fixico

Mr. Enoch Kelly Haney

Mrs. Terri Denise Haney

Ms. Greta Haney Ruminer

Ms. Fannie Harjo

Mrs. Darlene Henneha

Council Rep. Charlie Hill

Mrs. June Lee

Mrs. Jane McGiesey

Ms. Priscilla Ann Palmer Johnson

Ms. Joanna Palmer-Morris

Ms. Dena Tiger-Kloehr

Ms. Shirley Walker

Mrs. Cynthia Yerby

SEMINOLE NATION & MUSCOGEE (CREEK) NATION

Mr. Jerry Haney

SENECA CAYUGA NATION

Mr. Charles Diebold

Ms. Nadine Hilliard

Chief Leroy Howard

Mr. Wayne Smith

SHAWNEE TRIBE

Ms. Ruthe Blalock Jones

Mr. Tony Booth

Ms. Roberta Janell Coombes

Mr. Freddie Halfmoon

Ms. Georgie Honey

Ms. Patsy Lorene Johnson

Mr. Doyle Barry Kerr

Mr. Scott Secondine

Ms. Carolyn Smith

Mr. James Squirrel

THLOPTHLOCCO TRIBAL TOWN

Ms. Rosalie Bateman

Ms. Grace Bunner

Ms. Dorothy Burden

Ms. Nora Cheek

Mr. Charles Coleman

Ms. Billie Curry

Ms. Melinda Ann Gibson

Ms. Elsie Mae Martin

Mrs. Elizabeth Trickey

THLOPTHLOCCO TRIBAL TOWN & MUSCOGEE (CREEK) NATION

Ms. Sandra Dacon-Medrano

TONKAWA TRIBE

Ms. Barbara Allen

Mr. Don Patterson

Mr. Jim Schreen

UNITED KEETOOWAH BAND OF CHEROKEES

Mr. John William Cornsilk

Mr. Sequoyah Guess

Mr. John Hair

Mr. Woody Hansen

Mr. Howard Hansen Sr.

Mr. Jim Henson

Ms. Dorothy Ice

Mr. Jacob Littledave

Dr. Ricky Robinson

Mr. Albert Shade

Mr. Sammy Still

Chief George Wickliffe

WICHITA & AFFILIATED TRIBES

Ms. Shirley Davilla

Mr. Clark Inkanish

Mrs. Elfreida Irving

Ms. Doris Jean Lamar McLemore

Mr. Stuart Owings

Ms. Marsha Rose

Mr. James “Bunny” Ross

Mr. Myles Stephenson Sr.

Ms. Mary Louise Stevenson Tselee

Mr. Franklin Dale Swift

Mrs. Rochelle Swift

Mr. Stratford Williams

WYANDOTTE NATION

Mr. Leaford Bearskin

Chief Billy Friend

Mr. Larry Wayne Hamilton

Mr. David Keffer

Mr. Tom D. Keffer

Ms. Juanita Long McQuiston

Mr. Ted Nesvold

Mr. Walter Watts

PAST INDIAN ELDER HONORS RECIPIENTS

2018 Dr. Judy Goforth Parker, Chickasaw Nation

2017 Dr. Henrietta Mann, Cheyenne and Arapaho Tribes of Oklahoma

2016 Rev. Dr. David Wilson, Choctaw Nation

2015 Dr. Tom Anderson, Cherokee Nation

2014 Chief Gregory Pyle, Choctaw Nation

AAR P Oklahoma Executive Council

Joe Ann Vermillion, State President

Wayne Blackmon

Teewanna Edwards

Mary Overall

Beth Roller

AAR P Oklahoma State Office

Sean Voskuhl State Director

Melanie Henry

Associate State Director, Communications & Outreach

Melba Knight Senior Operations Associate

Joy McGill

Associate State Director, Outreach

Chad Mullen

Associate State Director, Advocacy

Mashell Sourjohn

Associate State Director, Outreach

With 400,000 members in Oklahoma and nearly 38 million members nationwide, AARP is dedicated to empowering Americans 50 and older to choose how they live as they age. As the nation’s largest nonprofit, nonpartisan organization, AARP works to strengthen communities and advocate for what matters most to families with a focus on health security, financial stability and personal fulfillment.

www.aarp.org/ok

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