13TH ANNUAL AARP OKLAHOMA
Indian Elder Honors 2021
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Dear friends,
Evening Events
As this pandemic continues to unfold and creates a sense of uncertainty in our community, one thing that remains unwavering is our elders’ resilience and brilliance. The elders connect and ground us to our past, keep us mindfully present and inspire our future generations to become better curators of communities and cultures. It is truly our honor to spotlight the inspiring stories of our 2021 AARP Oklahoma Indian Elder honorees, their work and their dedication to building strong communities and serving others. These honored elders are beacons of hope and inspiration. They embody AARP’s mission and vision, and they inspire others to serve their communities. Each individual makes a powerful difference in their communities, throughout Indian Country and our nation. Although we cannot gather in-person for the safety of our treasured elders, we are united together to celebrate and honor each elder’s contributions and accomplishments. We are truly grateful for their commitment to making our communities a better place. To all our 2021 AARP Oklahoma Indian Elder honorees and past honorees: your record of achievement, service, and commitment is making a difference and bringing purpose to those around you. You are an extraordinary example of the difference that we all can make in others’ lives and in the well-being and vitality of our community. We thank you, and God bless.
ABOUT AARP OKLAHOMA INDIAN ELDER HONORS The AARP Oklahoma Indian Elder Honors awards were established in 2009 to celebrate Native American elders who have positively impacted their community, family, tribal nation and nation. This honor celebrates a lifetime of service by distinguished Native American elders who exhibit a love of family, dedication to culture and respect for all people. Since its inception, the AARP Oklahoma Indian Elder Honors has recognized more than 593 elders from Oklahoma’s 39 tribal nations. Past honorees include teachers, veterans, artists, tribal leaders, culture preservationists and everyday community heroes.
ABOUT AARP With 400,000 members in Oklahoma and nearly 38 million members nationwide, AARP is dedicated to empowering Americans 50 andRun older choose they oftoShow tohow go here. 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.
Sean W. Voskuhl State Director, AARP Oklahoma
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LDr. John & Tewanna Edwards Leadership Award MEMORIAL LEADERSHIP AWARD
TEWANNA EDWARDS Chickasaw Nation and currently serves as a Chickasaw Nation judicial peacemaker. She is a National Indian Education Association member, an Indian education volunteer in Shawnee Public School and an Oklahoma Indian Education Council team sponsor. She serves on the steering committee for American Indian breast cancer awareness. Mrs. Edwards is the secretary and treasurer for the Chickasha Fellowship of American Indian Church. Other areas of community service include substance abuse counselor, Sunday school teacher, tribal princess pageant judge, gambling addiction counselor, missionary and former Chickasaw Nation Boys and Girls Club advisor and board chairperson. Tewanna Edwards, a Chickasaw Nation citizen and Chocotaw descendant, was raised in Oklahoma and is a former boarding school student. She attended the University of Science and Arts of Oklahoma. Mrs. Edwards was selected as a member of “Who’s Who in American Universities,” a nationally recognized award for outstanding college students. She later received a master’s degree in counseling from the University of Biblical Studies and Seminary. Mrs. Edwards is a strong advocate for American Indian and Alaska Native families
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Mrs. Edwards has spoken at numerous national conferences, including the Army and Air Force Exchange Service’s “Taking the Path to Leadership.” She also is a published author. Mrs. Edwards was an extra in the “August: Osage County” movie and the “Telephone Warriors - WWI Choctaw Code Talkers” documentary. She narrated the Chickasaw Nation 50th annual meeting, the National Gathering of Indigenous Peacemakers and the “Survival of the Chickasaw Language and Culture - Chickasaw Indian Boarding School Era” documentary.
Mrs. Edwards is the tribal liaison for the Oklahoma Health Care Authority’s “Money Follows the Person” program. She was recently recognized by the Oklahoma Health Care Authority for her service on its council for diversity and inclusion. Mrs. Edwards also serves on the AARP Oklahoma Executive Council. She and her husband, John, helped establish the AARP Oklahoma Indian Elder Honors. Mrs. Edwards was named an AARP Oklahoma Indian Elder honoree in 2009. In 2018, she received the AARP Oklahoma Legacy Award for her dedication and valuable contribution to society.
About the Award Dr. John “Nikaani Kaapaa” Edwards (19352014) was a peacemaker for the Chickasaw Nation Supreme Court, an arbitrator for the U.S. Department of Interior, former governor of the Absentee Shawnee Tribe and a pastor of the Fellowship of American Indians Church of Oklahoma. Tewanna Edwards serves as a Chickasaw Nation peacemaker for the Chickasaw Nation Supreme Court and has dedicated her life to serving others. Organizations include AARP, Chickasaw Nation Boys and Girls Club, National Indian Education Association, Shawnee Public Schools, Community Renewal of Shawnee and numerous local and civic organizations.
Dr. and Mrs. Edwards have dedicated their lives for the betterment of others throughout Indian Country through volunteerism, advocacy and education. Their service with AARP includes positions on the AARP Oklahoma Executive Council and helping to establish the AARP Oklahoma Indian Elder Honors program. The Dr. John and Tewanna Edwards Leadership Award recognizes an individual whose leadership and positive impact on Native Americans embodies the spirit of Dr. and Mrs. Edwards.
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The Honorees
Sgt. Ball was a champion steer wrestler, winning the Regional 8 finals in 1983 and the Muscogee Nation rodeo for four consecutive years. Sgt. Ball and his wife, Diana, have been married for more than 50 years and have two daughters.
KENNIS BELLMARD ABE SYLVESTER ALLEY Otoe-Missouria Tribe Abe Sylvester Alley is of the Buffalo Clan and was born to Daniel Alley and Anna Kihega Tohee. Mr. Alley grew up speaking the Otoe-Missouria language and attended the Native American Church. He graduated from Red Rock School, Oklahoma State University School of Technology and Pomona College in Claremont, California. Mr. Alley also studied at the Institute of American Indian Arts in Santa Fe, New Mexico. He helped others through his work as a substance abuse counselor in California, Colorado and Oklahoma. Mr. Alley has been on the Otoe-Missouria Development Authority Board for more than a decade. He has also served multiple terms on the Otoe-Missouria Election Board. A respected elder, Mr. Alley is a cultural advisor to the Tribe and introduces Otoe-Missouria children into the dance arena. He respects and reveres traditions and takes pride in sharing stories and knowledge with younger generations.
ROY BALL Kaw Nation Roy Ball was born in Shidler to Roy and Maggie Ball. He bravely served his country in the U.S. Army during the Vietnam War. His service continued with the Kaw Nation. Sgt. Ball was a tribal council member, vice-chairman and chairman. He currently serves on the election board and cultural committee. For three decades, Sgt. Ball worked at the Oklahoma State University Willard Sparks Beef Research Center. While employed there, he received the Oklahoma State University distinguished service award.
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Kaw Nation Kennis Bellmard is a distinguished member of the Kaw Nation and a respected practitioner of Native American law. U.S. News and World Report recognized his firm as one of Oklahoma’s top law firms for Native American Law. Mr. Bellmard served as chair of the Indian Law Section of the Oklahoma Bar Association and negotiated the first federally approved Class III gaming compact in Oklahoma. He currently serves the Kaw Nation as the government relations director and president of Kaw Gaming, Inc. Mr. Bellmard received an Associate of Arts from Northern Oklahoma College, a Bachelor of Arts from Oklahoma State University and a Juris Doctorate from the University of Oklahoma College of Law. While at the University of Oklahoma, he served as American Indian Law Review editor-in-chief and was a Phi Theta Kappa honor society member. Mr. Bellmard is a gifted athlete who wrestled for Northern Oklahoma College and OSU. He was named an All-American wrestler at Augustana College. Before entering law school, he coached wrestling at Ponca City and Newkirk high schools. His teams won state runner-up and championship titles. Mr. Bellmard serves on the National Wrestling Hall of Fame board of governors and the USA Judo board of directors. Mr. Bellmard attended the Beijing and London Olympics as a member of the USA Judo delegation. Mr. Bellmard is active in Kaw Nation cultural activities and is a cultural committee member. He previously served as a drum keeper for the Kaw In-Lon-Shka ceremonial dances. He and his wife, Debra, have two sons, Joshua and Dylan.
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DARRELL BOULANGER Osage Nation Darrell Boulanger and his family are long-time residents of Osage County. Mr. Boulanger spends his time caring for his Osage family cemetery. The Boulanger family home was featured in the “August: Osage County” movie, a point of pride for the whole family. Mr. Boulanger is very proud of his Osage heritage. He is known as a very caring man willing to assist his community and his fellow Osage tribal member however he can.
JOE BUNCH United Keetoowah Band of Cherokee Indians Joe Bunch is a graduate of Haskell Indian Junior College and Baker University. He earned a Master of Science degree in Industrial Engineering and Management from Northeastern State University. Chief Bunch was elected assistant chief in 2014 for the United Keetoowah Band of Cherokees. His accomplishments include successfully attaining 76 acres of land in trust for the Tribe, working with the Indian Health Service and leading the United Keetoowah Band of Cherokees’ 14,000-member tribe during the COVID-19 pandemic. Chief Bunch excelled at athletics as a young man, playing college football and fastpitch softball locally and nationally. He loves coaching sports to United Keetoowah Band of Cherokees youth. Chief Bunch recognizes the younger generations as the key to the Tribe’s future and vows to preserve its rich culture and heritage. Chief Bunch and his wife, Karen, live on his grandmother’s original allotment in the Wauhillau community near Stilwell. He is the proud father of Joseph and Cristina and the son of the late Rabbit and Opal Proctor Bunch.
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GLENDA GRAHAM-BYRD Muscogee Nation Glenda Graham-Byrd’s impact within the Muscogee Nation is far-reaching. Before retirement, Ms. GrahamByrd spent decades influencing the lives of thousands of high school students in the classroom and beyond as an English teacher. Teaching comes from her soul as she shares her history and Native American culture with others, particularly her family. Ms. Graham-Byrd recognizes the importance of storytelling and relishes the opportunity to share to ensure tribal legacies live on with future generations.
PAULINE “PAULA” WILSON-CARNEY Choctaw Nation Pauline “Paula” Wilson-Carney was born in 1940 at her Coal County home. She and her family spoke their native Choctaw language. She received her education at Wheelock Academy Missionary School for Girls and Chilocco Indian School. Ms. Wilson-Carney later met and married Rev. Raymond Carney. Together, they ministered the gospel from Oklahoma to Florida. Rev. and Ms. Wilson-Carney parented six children, 52 foster children and multiple families. After Rev. Carney died in 1999, she continued caring for foster children while working for the Choctaw Nation Language Program and teaching children at the Coalgate Elementary School. Ms. Wilson-Carney currently teaches adult language and culture classes. Ms. Wilson-Carney has served as president of the Choctaw Nation District 12 Community Center for 13 years. Her recognitions include an award from the Oklahoma Department of Human Services for her contribution to foster children’s programs. She also received the Outstanding Elder Award from the Choctaw Nation.
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ROBERT LARKIN COLE
NELLIE FIXICO
Chickasaw Nation A full-blooded Chickasaw, Robert Larkin Cole is known for helping individuals in his community. Mr. Cole owned his own construction company, building homes and providing contracting services for concrete and construction. Mr. Cole’s passion is volunteering for the Chickasaw Nation and spending time with his people. Mr. Cole and his wife of 47 years served as members of the First Peacemakers for the Chickasaw Nation District Court for 17 years. He provided peacemaker eagle feathers that were blessed for use in healing circles. Mr. Cole is a long-time member of the Glorieta Baptist Church in Oklahoma City.
BILL FIFE
Nellie Fixico is a constant presence within the Thlopthlocco Tribal Town, where she selflessly shares her time and talents. Her warm and caring nature is evident through her work, first at the Chilocco Indian School and, later, in an assisted living care setting. A protector of her culture, Mrs. Fixico shares her knowledge with others and assists with language courses. She also enjoys volunteering at local youth programs and through demonstrations of traditional food and art. Mrs. Fixico’s 40-year marriage has blessed her and her husband with four sons and numerous grandchildren and greatgrandchildren.
MARGARET FLOYD Muscogee Nation Bill Fife has served his country, community and the Muscogee Nation throughout his life. He honorably served in the U.S. Army Signal Corps during the Vietnam War. Chief Fife later served the Muscogee Nation in numerous roles, including principal chief, secretary and tribal affairs director. He served six terms as a council representative and was a tribal administrator for Alabama-Quassarte and Thlopthlocco Tribal Towns.
Chief Fife served on numerous boards, including Bacone College, Okmulgee Federal Credit Union, Creek Indian Museum Association and the Henryetta Hospital advisory board. He was appointed by the U.S. Secretary of Interior to the special task force to reorganize the Bureau of Indian Affairs. Chief Fife also served as vice president of the United Indian Nations of Oklahoma, Kansas, and Texas, and vice president of the Intertribal Council of Five Civilized Tribes. In addition, Chief Fife served as acting president and executive vice president of Bacone College and president of the Muscogee Nation Scholarship Foundation. To honor his legacy of service, the Muscogee Nation Foundation established the Bill Fife Scholarship at the College of the Muscogee Nation. In 2013, he was inducted into the Chilocco Indian School Hall of Fame. Chief Fife is regarded as a man of exemplary character and integrity dedicated to the Muscogee people.
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Thlopthlocco Tribal Town
Muscogee Nation A beloved fixture in her local community and church, Margaret Floyd is of the Wind Clan and has touched hundreds of lives throughout her 93 years. Mrs. Floyd lost her father at a very young age and stayed home to help her three younger siblings. After Mrs. Floyd raised her nine children and her husband passed, she completed her high school degree. Mrs. Floyd attended Bacone College, where she joined the choir, made the Dean’s Honor Roll and was a dorm housemother. Her love for learning multiplied as she volunteered 35,000 hours at Stidham and Hanna schools. Known affectionately as “Granny Margaret,” Mrs. Floyd has volunteered as a foster grandparent in McIntosh County for more than three decades. Mrs. Floyd has been recognized through numerous community awards, including the Ki Bois Community Action Foundation Granny of the Year Award, Oklahoma Department of Human Services’ volunteer and community partner award and foster grandparent award for her 30 years of service. She was honored at the Eufaula powwow and named “Mrs. Heritage” at Eufaula’s Heritage Day. Mrs. Floyd and her husband, Joe, were founding members and held several officer positions for the Eufaula Indian Community. She was also a member of the
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National Indian Council on Aging, a representative at district and national Foster Grandparent conferences and a Girl Scout advisor.
SANDRA “SANDI” GOLDEN
Mrs. Floyd’s faith and her church family are cherished deeply. She enjoys teaching and helping at funerals and revivals. Her contributions and caring reverberate throughout the community.
Sandra “Sandi” Golden attended Bacone College and Southwestern Oklahoma State before graduating from the University of California Berkley with a Master of Public Health. Ms. Golden’s passion for working with youth in tribal communities led her to work in Oklahoma, Wisconsin, Minnesota, Kansas, California, New Mexico and Colorado. She collaborated with national organizations and tribal nations and centered her work on health planning, substance abuse prevention, mental health and economic development. Ms. Golden also proudly served two terms as council representative for the Muscogee Nation. Ms. Golden has coordinated youth football camps and volunteered with Head Start and various tribal health education programs for the past decade.
MARY GIVENS Kialegee Tribal Town Caring and sharing was a significant value instilled in Mary Givens’ family. This attribute set the stage for her to serve and lead the Kialegee Tribal Town from 1998 to 2000. During her tenure, Mekko Givens created the position of enrollment clerk, which increased membership and helped her administration become acquainted with the elders of the Kialegee Tribal Town. She also helped publish a monthly newsletter and tripled its publication. Mekko Givens gave her time to take pictures at all events held by the Kialegee Tribal Town. Mekko Givens has served as secretary and treasurer for the Kialegee Tribal Town Elders group for almost 20 years. This position allows her to act as an activity director for the elders. Her work includes spending time with elders at monthly meetings, coordinating group activities such as sharing tribal culture with the youth, hosting local field trips for shopping or culture events and planning holiday dinners. Mekko Givens is a member of the Alabama Indian Baptist Church. She also receives spiritual fulfillment by attending local traditional churches and listening to Muscogee hymns.
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Muscogee Nation
DELPHINE HAMILTON Sac and Fox Nation Delphine Hamilton retired from the U.S. Marine Corps after honorably serving her country for 23 years. Upon retirement, she was called to continue serving. She began working with the Department of Veterans Affairs at the Yuma Veterans Center in Arizona. As an outreach specialist, Ret. MGySgt. Hamilton connects veterans, service members and their families to much-needed resources. She chairs the Yuma Military Appreciation Day and proudly coordinates Female Veterans Day. Her outstanding rapport with veterans and passion for helping people has earned her a trusted spot in the community. These efforts also led to a partnership with the local Native American Tribes and an annual Vietnam commemoration. Ret. MGySgt. Hamilton’s leadership, values and advocacy make a positive impact on not only her community but everyone she knows.
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JEFFERY HARJO
EUGENE HERROD Seminole Nation
Jeffery Dean Harjo’s service to his community and the Seminole Nation touches countless lives. His roles include general council representative, National Congress of American Indians eastern Oklahoma alternate vicepresident and Eufaula band chief. Councilman Harjo also served as finance committee chairperson for the constitution revision committee. His professional success includes positions as a non-profit executive director, telecommunications director, media coordinator, communications manager and engineer at television stations in Tulsa, Oklahoma City and Albuquerque, New Mexico. Councilman Harjo’s many personal and professional accomplishments continue to inspire others to follow in his footsteps.
SUSIE WALKER-HARJO Seminole Nation Susie Walker-Harjo is an enrolled member of the Seminole Nation of Oklahoma, Ocese Band. After 30 years of service with the Bureau of Indian Affairs in Arizona, Ms. Walker-Harjo relocated back to her home area of Seminole. Ms. Walker-Harjo is a long-time member of the North American Indian Women’s Association and has held several national and state leadership roles, including president and secretary. Ms. Walker-Harjo’s career includes work as a Head Start administrative assistant and chief of staff for the Seminole Nation. She currently serves as a general council representative and chairman of the Seminole Nation Business and Corporate Regulatory Commission.
Muscogee Nation Eugene Herrod has been likened to the first drop of rain that falls from the sky over a lake. Just as one droplet creates ever-widening circles as it hits the water, Mr. Herrod’s ripple effect is vast. As a child, Mr. Herrod was sent to a residential boarding school but overcame the separation from his family, friends and culture. He earned a Bachelor of Arts in sociology and anthropology from UCLA and graduated Cum Laude. He subsequently received a Master of Sociology from Fort Hays State University and a Master of Jurisprudence in Indian Law from The University of Tulsa College of Law. Mr. Herrod was previously an adjunct professor at Bacone College. He currently teaches at the College of the Muscogee Nation, where he was named Faculty Member of the Year in 2020. Mr. Herrod educates Native students about land issues, gaming law, Muscogee, and Native American history and culture. Mr. Herrod advocates for Indian Country and fights tirelessly for an accurate representation of Native Americans. He served on the Southern California Indian Center board and is currently the spokesperson for Advocates for American Indian Children. Mr. Herrod continues to lead the fight against Native American mascots. In 1999, he successfully petitioned the California Department of Motor Vehicles to recall all license plates referencing “redskin.” Mr. Herrod is regarded as an educator, keeper of wisdom and respected elder. He willingly shares his knowledge of the Mvskoke language, traditions and spiritual practices. Mr. Herrod also raises his voice in concert with the ancestors to ensure their voices echo through time. This ensures that future generations can embrace their role as tribal citizens in a way that the boarding school denied Mr. Herrod.
Ms. Walker-Harjo is a proud mother and grandmother.
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NANCY JOHN Muscogee Nation Nancy John’s dedication and concern for the environment’s health propels her work as the Cherokee Nation Environmental Programs director. Ms. John’s team provides environmental services to the member tribes of the Inter-Tribal Environmental Council, a consortium of 45 tribes and pueblos from Louisiana, New Mexico, Oklahoma and Texas. Throughout her career, she has worked closely with Oklahoma tribes and assisted them with establishing tribal environmental programs. Ms. John is well-respected in her field of expertise and strives to be of service to others. She serves as a tribal representative for the Environmental Protection Agency’s national and regional tribal operations committees, the National Tribal Water Council and the National State-Tribal Climate Change Council. Ms. John’s significant contributions have garnered awards from the Environmental Protection Agency and the Oklahoma Society of Environmental Professionals.
medal. Prior to being elected assistant chief of the Seminole Nation of Oklahoma in August of 2013, Johnson served two consecutive terms on the General Council as the Band Chief for the Tallahassee Band. He was elected chief of the Seminole Nation in 2021. Chief Johnson is an ordained minister and is the associate pastor at the Indian Nations Baptist Church in Seminole.
ANITA ONCO-JOHNSON Kiowa Tribe Kiowa Tribe District 5 legislator Anita Onco-Johnson happily serves her Native American community in southwest Oklahoma. Rep. Onco-Johnson is known for her faithful service and impactful contributions. Rep. Onco-Johnson’s work in the community includes the Indigenous Peoples’ Day committee, Cameron University’s recruitment and retention task force, Lawton Public Schools Native American Council and the Kiowa Casino community relations program. The Indigenous Peoples’ Day committee presented Rep. OncoJohnson with the City of Lawton Elder Lifetime Achievement Award in 2020.
LEWIS JOHNSON Seminole Nation Lewis Johnson is a member of the Bird Clan and Tallahassee Band. He has served the people of the Seminole Nation most of his adult life. Chief Johnson was the assistant curator at the Seminole Nation Museum for nearly two decades. His extensive knowledge of the traditions and history of the Seminole Nation led to multiple fellowships at the Smithsonian Institute, where he specialized in Native preservation programs. He has also been featured in documentaries on The Discovery Channel, PBS and “60 Minutes.” Throughout his years of service, Chief Johnson has been appointed to various committees, including the revision committee, codification committee, arts and culture committee and negotiation committee for the Seminole Nation Development Authority. He also served as a records management specialist, Seminole Nation Housing Authority commissioner, Seminole Nation Development Authority trustee and tribal liaison for the U.S. Mint Congressional Code Talkers
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RENEE LINCOLN Iowa Tribe Renee Lincoln is considered a woman always on the move with her tribal events, church and rodeos, all while running a ranch. In addition to having four children, she adopted three Iowa Tribe children over the years. Ms. Lincoln is known as a true servant and leader to the Iowa Tribe. She held positions in tribal government for more than 13 years. Ms. Lincoln served as an elected tribal councilperson from 2003 to 2014. She also served as vice chairman for the Tribe. Ms. Lincoln worked in other areas of the Iowa Tribe, including the police department and as a tribal event coordinator. She ended her tribal career as secretary of the Iowa Tribe in 2020. Prior to her tribal career, Ms. Lincoln worked as a culinary arts teacher’s assistant at Meridian Technology Center and was a partner at Barrett Trucking.
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MONA “KOKO” LOWE Muscogee Nation Mona “KoKo” Lowe truly has a servant’s heart. Mrs. Lowe volunteers at Muscogee Nation activities, festivals, pageants, fundraisers and the Challenge Bowl. She is active with the Mvskoke women’s leadership group and the Arbeka Baptist Church. A fluent Muscogee speaker, Mrs. Lowe enjoys working in the Muscogee Nation language department and helps each summer at the Muscogee Language Camp. She also shares her knowledge of preparing traditional Native American food. Mrs. Lowe is on the Lady Legends Basketball team and plays in the elder softball game during the Muscogee Nation Festival. Mrs. Lowe’s honors include the Elder of the Year award and the Mother of the Year award.
ARCHIE MASON Osage Nation Archie Mason finds joy and fulfillment while serving others. Mr. Mason holds a Bachelor of Arts in Education and a Master of Education from Northeastern State University. He has also completed post-graduate studies at the University of Tulsa. Mr. Mason touched countless lives as a teacher at Tulsa Public Schools and Rogers State University. He is currently a Bacone College ambassador. For 14 years, Mr. Mason kept the interest of the Osage people top-of-mind while serving in the Osage Nation Congress. Mr. Mason proudly advocates for his Osage and Cherokee cultures, languages, histories, values and traditions. He participates in Native cultural events and intertribal powwows and serves as head committeeman for Grayhorse District I’n-Lon-Schka ceremonial dances. Mr. Mason is a 20-year member of the U.S. Selective Service System. He was appointed by President Bush and subsequently appointed by President Obama to the Oklahoma Selective Services System district appeals board. Mr. Mason is involved in numerous organizations including Rotary International,
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Oklahoma Indian American Baptist Association, Phi Delta Kappa and American Indian Children with Disabilities. He is also active with Sigma Tau Gamma, Northeastern State University Alumni Association and the National Association of Campus Ministries.
CAROLYN MCCLELLAN Cherokee Nation Carolyn McClellan has served her Tribe and worked tirelessly to help Native nations across the country. Ms. McClellan earned a Bachelor of Arts in Anthropology from the University of Arizona and a Master of Arts in Native American Studies from the University of Oklahoma. Her resume includes a lengthy tenure with the Bureau of Indian Affairs and Bureau of Land Management. Ms. McClellan focused her efforts on cultural resource management, Native cultural traditions and historic preservation in these roles. Ms. McClellan also served as the assistant director of programs for the Smithsonian National Museum of the American Indian. She currently serves on the Sacred Sites research board and the Wagoner County board of adjustment. Ms. McClellan freely gives her time and talents while mentoring and encouraging others to contribute to the greater good. Now retired after 20 years of federal service, Ms. McClellan once again lives within the Cherokee Nation reservation near her three children and grandson.
EDWARD F. MOUSS Muscogee Nation Edward F. Mouss was instrumental in constructing business practices that benefitted the Muscogee people and other Native American tribes during his successful career. His vision was to develop, protect and advance the interests, education and resources of the Muscogee Nation. He was instrumental in establishing the Muscogee Nation Natural Resource Conservation District
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and served as chairman. Mr. Mouss penned the district’s motto: “Helping our people protect our land.” This increased Native American farmers’ and ranchers’ opportunities to own, operate and retain farms and ranches by utilizing federal programs and technical assistance. Under his leadership, the Muscogee Nation Natural Resource Conservation District was named to the Oklahoma Hall of Fame for Conservation Districts in its first year of operation. As chief of the Bureau of Indian Affairs Division of Self-Determination Services, Mr. Mouss administered the national self-determination program through 12 regional offices. He also served as the Tribal/Federal Negotiated Rulemaking Committee’s tribal co-chair, National Indian Health Board vice chairman and Oklahoma Area Indian Health Board chairman. Mr. Mouss retired from Bureau of Indian Affairs and continues to serve on the Indian Nations Conservation Alliance board. He is also a senior advisor on the National Association of Conservation Districts’ tribal outreach and partnership resource policy group.
JAMES NORRIS Osage Nation James Norris is a dedicated family man who has selflessly served his community and country. He enlisted in the U.S. Army and served in the Vietnam War. After service, he worked in health care management for nearly three decades, ultimately as chief executive officer for the Oklahoma Area Indian Health Services Pawnee Service Unit. Cmdr. Norris provided planning, leadership and direction to implement a $15 million comprehensive health care delivery program for north-central Oklahoma. He was also designated as the senior team member responsible for planning, designing, staffing and constructing a new $14 million health center. Cmdr. Norris excelled at establishing and maintaining relationships with civil and governmental groups and organizations to promote Indian Health Services. Cmdr. Norris also served as an Osage Nation congressman for four years. Cmdr. Norris participates in the I’n-Lon-Schka dance each year. For many years, he has held a position on the Pawhuska drum keepers committee for the WaXa-Ko-Li’n district. Cmdr. Norris also serves on the commission responsible for constructing the award-winning Osage Veterans Memorial in Pawhuska.
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TWILA PARKER Absentee Shawnee Tribe Twila Parker’s life goal is taken from the words of Chief Tecumseh: “Seek to make your life long and its purpose in the service of your people.” Mrs. Parker is spirited and dynamic in her pursuit of preserving the culture, history and education of Native Americans. Mrs. Parker attended high school in Earlsboro, a community near Shawnee. She later attended Draughon Business College and earned a stenographer’s diploma. Mrs. Parker served in the U.S. Air Force and was trained in air-to-ground communication. She was stationed at Croughton Air Force base in England and in Minot, North Dakota. Mrs. Parker later attended Rose State College, where she earned an associate degree in business. She also earned a bachelor’s degree in administrative leadership and a master’s degree in human relations from the University of Oklahoma. Mrs. Parker’s employment includes a career at Indian Health Services’ Shawnee dental clinic, where she worked as a receptionist. During her tenure, she was instrumental in improving medical records procedures and received a special service award from the Indian Health Services area director. Other employment included service as a payroll clerk at Tinker Air Force Base and with the U.S. Postal Service as a mail handler. As a member of the Local 324 Mail Handlers Union, she was an advocate for fellow postal workers and worked to improve conditions and standards for fellow workers. Mrs. Parker served as chairman of its diversity committee and received a letter of commendation from Postmaster General Marvin Runyon. After a brief retirement, Mrs. Parker returned to work as the assistant to the Absentee Shawnee Tribe governor. Mrs. Parker currently serves as an officer for the Absentee Shawnee Tribe’s Veterans Association and is president of the Absentee Shawnee Tribe Elders Council. Throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, Mrs. Parker has dedicated her time handing out hundreds of face masks and hand sanitizers, as well as going to homes to check on elders. She serves fellow veterans by ordering food and supplies to be delivered over the holidays or in times of distress. Mrs. Parker also performs Honor Guard proceedings at tribal veteran funerals and coordinates the veterans’ budget to assist tribal families in crisis.
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CLARK PEPPER Kaw Nation Clark Pepper’s mother was of the Chickasaw Nation, and his father was of the Kaw Nation. Commissioner Pepper comes from a long line of tribal dancers. He represented the Kaw Tribe as a head dancer and competitive dancer in events across the country. As a Kaw elder, Commissioner Pepper brought many young men and women into the arena for the Tribe. He also assisted his father and other tribal elders in renewing the tail dance. Commissioner Pepper graduated from Chilocco Indian Boarding School. He attended Northeastern A&M Junior College and Oklahoma State University. Commissioner Pepper worked 23 years at the Stillwater Police Department as a patrol officer and criminal investigator. He was a member of the Special Operations SWAT team as a scout and team leader. He also served with other agencies as a special operations member. Upon retirement from Stillwater Police Department, Commissioner Pepper worked for the Otoe-Missouria Tribe as an investigator at the 7 Clans Casino, as well as for the Iowa Tribe at its Cimarron Casino. Commissioner Pepper also worked with the Pawnee Tribe as an investigator for the Tribe’s Gaming Commission. He currently serves as the commissioner and investigator for the Kaw Nation Gaming Commission. Commissioner Pepper is currently learning the Comanche and Kaw languages. He enjoys listening to traditional, straight and fancy dance songs, as well as dancing and creating pieces of dance regalia.
MARGARET FRANCIS-RICO Caddo Nation Margaret Francis-Rico is a true treasure of the Caddo Nation. She is known for her loving and generous soul. Mrs. Francis-Rico generously shares her extensive knowledge of Caddo culture, including traditional clothing, food, and song demonstrations and classes. Her work across Oklahoma and Arizona with Head Start and
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various youth programs spans more than 20 years. Mrs. Francis-Rico’s commitment to helping disadvantaged and at-risk youth has changed the trajectory of many lives. She also enjoys helping students with their Red Earth art projects.
JUANITA NOKOMIS TIGER-SCOTT Seminole Nation Juanita Nokomis Tiger-Scott’s tribal band is Ceyvha. She has always been active in tribal activities and governmental affairs, participating in tribal band meetings, tribal council meetings and serving on various committees and boards. Mrs. Tiger-Scott served two terms on the Seminole Nation’s Business and Regulatory Commission and held the chairman position during her final term. Ms. TigerScott and her husband were outstanding entrepreneurs and started Billy Boys Bar-B-Que in Shawnee. Mrs. Tiger-Scott is a proud mother of five children.
JIM SHERRON Ponca Nation Jim Sherron Jr. has devoted his entire career to law enforcement. He comes from the Warrior and Whitestar families of the Ponca Tribe. Mr. Sherron is a 1982 graduate of Ponca City High School. He joined the Newkirk Police Department in 1990. Mr. Sherron joined the Ponca City Police Department in 1992, where he would spend the next 23 years: six years in the patrol division and 17 years as a detective. While working for the Ponca City Police Department, he was named Police Officer of the Year by the Oklahoma Association of Chiefs of Police in 1996. By the time Mr. Sherron retired in 2015, he had received 22 commendations. Following his retirement, Mr. Sherron was presented with his own song of the Ponca Tribe, one of the highest honors bestowed on an individual. Mr. Sherron continues to serve in law enforcement as the chief of police for the Kaw Nation. Mr. Sherron has also been elected twice to the Ponca Tribal Business Committee. He also currently serves as a gaming commissioner for the Ponca Tribe.
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Mr. Sherron and his wife, Sarah, have three sons, Daniel, Caleb and Luke. They are blessed with seven grandchildren.
MARY “KATIE” SIGLER Cherokee Nation Mary “Katie” Sigler is a life-long educator. Dr. Sigler is the former chairwoman of the Southern Nazarene University Nursing Department and former president of the Oklahoma Emergency Nurses Association. As a Cherokee citizen, Dr. Sigler serves as a voice for Indian rural health care in Indian country. She has worked with numerous colleges, universities and vocational centers to implement instructional materials that facilitate highquality student learning opportunities. Dr. Sigler has also worked with Cherokee Nation entities to provide specialized staff training classes. She previously worked in a community clinic as a nurse practitioner, where she assisted disadvantaged individuals in gaining access to health care. Dr. Sigler received her associate degree in nursing from Cuesta College in San Luis Obispo, California, and a bachelor’s degree in nursing from St. Mary of the Plains College in Wichita, Kansas. She earned a master’s degree in nursing for nurse practitioner preparation from Pittsburg State University in Pittsburg, Kansas. Dr. Sigler also attended Oklahoma State University and earned a Doctorate in Occupational and Adult Education.
GLORIA SIRMANS Choctaw Nation Gloria Sirmans learned from a very young age how to be responsible, dependable, nurturing, and most of all, loving. She has a servant’s heart and finds joy in helping others. Mrs. Sirmans enjoys caring for her family and is known for her excellent cooking and family gatherings.
available to Choctaw members and other American Indian tribal members. Mrs. Sirmans began working for Feed the Need Foundation of Oklahoma in 2004. In this role, she served as an elder advocate, assisting elders with transportation to health services. In 2007, Mrs. Sirmans was recognized for these efforts and was named “Outstanding Outreach Worker” by the State of Oklahoma. After working 10 years as an outreach worker for Pittsburg County, Mrs. Sirmans returned to the Choctaw Nation field office, where she is currently employed in a senior clerk position. She can be found working in the Choctaw Nation Community Center and providing valuable program information.
CHRIS SOAP Cherokee Nation Chris Soap was born and raised in Tahlequah and comes from a family of public servants. He was influenced by many Native American educators and mentors while attending the Tahlequah public schools. Mr. Soap attended Northeastern State University and graduated with a bachelor’s degree. He participated in several Native American student organizations, including the American Indian Science and Engineering Society, serving as a chapter officer. Mr. Soap’s 26-year career in manufacturing has enabled him to work with many Native Americans in northeast Oklahoma, and he has provided many economic and leadership growth opportunities to individuals and business owners. Mr. Soap also served on multiple parent committees in various school districts and represented the native community. He enjoyed growing the cultural programs in schools to include strong parent and student engagement. Mr. Soap was later elected to serve his native Cherokee people on the Cherokee Nation Tribal Council. Mr. Soap enjoys dancing at powwows and has served as an arena director at powwow events across Oklahoma. He is also an avid Indian relay fan and enjoys traveling to relay events. Mr. Soap enjoys collecting Native American works of art and supports up-and-coming artisans.
After graduating from Hartshorne High School, Mrs. Sirmans began working for the Choctaw Nation as the District 11 field office secretary. She helped many people access programs
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ANNA WOCKMETOOAH TAHMAHKERA Comanche Nation Oklahoma earned its statehood only 10 years before Anna Wockmetooah Tahmahkera’s birth. At the age of seven, she was granted citizenship to the United States under the Indian Citizenship Act of 1924. At the age of 26, she was finally granted the right to vote. Mrs. Tahmahkera is a real-life “Rosie the Riveter” and served her country by working as a welder in the shipyards during World War II. At 103 years of age, Mrs. Tahmahkera has served the Comanche Nation with an incomparable lifetime role in preserving the Tribe’s traditions and keeping its language and culture alive.
CANDY THOMAS Osage Nation Candy Thomas was born and raised in Tulsa. After graduating from Edison High School, Ms. Thomas received a bachelor’s degree in sociology and a minor in political science from the University of California, San Diego. Ms. Thomas’ career has been primarily in the public sector as an employee and independent consultant to cities, counties, non-profit organizations and government. She has written and administered more than $30 million in community and economic development grants. Other roles include serving as a community outreach coordinator for two private entities and working with the Osage County Industrial Authority to help develop the Pawhuska Business Development Center. Ms. Thomas served as executive director for the Pawhuska Community Foundation Fund and Osage Nation Gaming Board secretary.
development and oversight of federal grants and other federal funds. She is currently working on creating and implementing a community development financial institution to serve as a lending institution for Osage tribal members.
BILLIE ANN TOHEE Otoe-Missouria Tribe Billie Ann Tohee is an enrolled member of the OtoeMissouria Tribe of Oklahoma and a descendant of the Iowa Tribe of Oklahoma. Ms. Tohee is Bear Clan and was brought up in a traditional home where she was taught the ways of her people. Her Indian Name is Xra Da Mi (Real Eagle Woman). Ms. Tohee served as the Otoe-Missouria Tribal Princess from 1971 to 1972. Her high school years were spent at C.E. Donart High School in Stillwater and Chilocco Indian School. Ms. Tohee attended the University of New Mexico and graduated with a Bachelor of Public Science. She later obtained a Master of Laws in Indigenous Peoples Law from the University of Oklahoma. Ms. Tohee has worked in the legal field all of her adult life, with much of her work focusing on indigenous law in the areas of crimes against indigenous peoples and child welfare. Today, Ms. Tohee advocates for her fellow native elders, serving as the national secretary and executive board member for the National Indian Council on Aging. Ms. Tohee enjoys attending dances and powwows with her family and friends. She has recently sharpened her acting skills, serving as an extra in the “Reservation Dogs” television series and the “Killers of the Flower Moon” movie.
Ms. Thomas has worked for the Osage Nation since 2014 as the director of self-governance and strategic planning. Her department is responsible for the administration of the Indian Health Services compact and funding distributions and the Bureau of Indian Affairs Multi-Year Funding Agreement, which supports tribal direct service programs. Ms. Thomas also assists the Osage Nation with the
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GLADYS WALKER
GAIL WILLIAMS Wichita and Affiliated Tribes
Gladys Walker is an enrolled member of the Wichita and Affiliated Tribes located in Anadarko. She has served many years as a member of the Wichita Service Club. Ms. Walker also served the Wichita Executive Committee as treasurer and committee member for 12 years. During this timeframe, the Wichita Executive Committee opened the first casino for the Wichita and Affiliated Tribes, built the Tribe’s first travel plaza and remodeled the tribal community building. Ms. Walker also served on the Wichita gaming oversight subcommittee and the foster care review board. Ms. Walker currently serves as a tax commissioner for the Wichita Tax Commission.
LOWELL WESLEY Kialegee Tribal Town Lowell Wesley was born and raised in Wetumka and still resides at his family home. As a young man, Mekko Wesley was raised in church on the campus of Salt Creek Indian Baptist Church. He was elected Kialegee Tribal Town Mekko from 2001 to 2003. Mekko Wesley followed in the footsteps of his father, Rev. James Wesley, who was also a former mekko. As mekko, he was able to help the Tribal Town purchase 120 acres of land west of Wetumka, the current location of the Kialegee Tribal Town Administration Complex. With the purchase of this land, Mekko Wesley facilitated the construction of a tribal courthouse and a family life center. Mekko Wesley continues to positively impact all around him and enjoys working with tribal elders and youth.
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Cheyenne and Arapaho Tribes Gail Williams is a half-Cheyenne and half-Arapaho tribal member of the Cheyenne and Arapaho Tribes. Ms. Williams was born and raised in Canton and is one of 13 children. Ms. Williams graduated from Canton High School in 1975. She later received her secretarial science and clerk typist certificate from Okmulgee State Technical Institute. Ms. Williams has been employed with the U.S. government for 31 years. She began working as a temporary receptionist and was permanently hired as a finance clerk. She was later promoted to accounting technician. Ms. Williams also worked at the Oklahoma City Indian Health Service area office, Lawton Indian Health Service and the Nashville Area Indian Health Service. Ms. Williams currently serves as an accounting technician for the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs in Oklahoma City. She proudly serves and assists all branches of military veterans. Ms. Williams comes from a large family and understands the struggles of poverty. She has always worked hard to overcome challenging life situations. Ms. Williams is always willing to go above and beyond for family and friends and helps anyone in need. She is committed to love, honor and respect the Cheyenne and Arapaho Tribe’s traditional, ceremonial and cultural ways.
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JOHN WILLIAMS Osage Nation John Williams has lived a legacy of valor, leadership and service and has impacted lives worldwide. Mr. Williams graduated from Fairfax High School and attended Oklahoma State University. While in college, he enlisted in the U.S. Army in 1967. Mr. Williams served in Vietnam as a special forces senior medic and was awarded a combat medical badge and the highly heralded Bronze Star medal. Mr. Williams began his medical career in 1970. Over the years, he worked as a physician assistant, director and chief executive officer to health clinics and hospitals across the country and in Indian Country. Service locations included the Alamo Navajo Reservation, Jicarilla Apache Reservation Dulce, Winnebago Nebraska Hospital, Pawhuska Indian Health Services Clinic and the Lawton Indian Hospital. Mr. Williams is an active committeeman for the Grayhorse District, serving as an advisor to the drum keeper. He currently serves as an appointed governmental affairs advisor to the Osage Nation Chief. In this role, Mr. Williams is the liaison to the Osage sister nations, tribes and states, bridging the gap of the Osage people, its history and future. Mr. Williams also serves as a cultural, language and historical advisor for the “Killers of the Flower Moon” movie.
OLIN WILLIAMS Choctaw Nation
has dedicated his time studying and understanding the European invasion’s impact on Native American tribes. Mr. Williams actively uses his knowledge of language, history and culture to teach the historic ways of respect. He shares, “Freedom and sovereignty are our legacy. We must stand up emotionally, mentally and culturally.” Mr. Williams is married to Cynthia Bernice. They have five children and 15 grandchildren.
LOYCE WRIGHT Choctaw Nation Loyce Wright is a full-blooded Choctaw/Chickasaw and was born in Blanco. Ms. Wright graduated from Pittsburg High School and subsequently pursued a career in nursing. To date, she has worked in the nursing industry for 55 years. Thirty-eight years of service have been dedicated to Indian Health Services and the Choctaw Nation, respectively. Ms. Wright has received many accolades for her work, including two Indian Health Services awards and an outstanding recognition award. Ms. Wright was instrumental in securing a full-time registered nurse position at the Choctaw Nation-Jones Academy boarding school. She also submitted a needs assessment to Indian Health Services’ Public Health nursing program in 2012 to help improve the health outcomes of Native Americans. Ms. Wright currently serves as a healthy aging case manager to support increased access to health and wellness services for Choctaw Nation tribal elders.
Olin Williams was born in 1952 on the Conehatta Reservation in Newton County, Mississippi. A firstlanguage Choctaw speaker, Mr. Williams studied at Haskell Indian Nations University. Mr. Williams’ faith in God, life experiences, failures and successes have enabled him to elevate tribal members through ministering God’s word. He has served the Choctaw Nation for 23 years and is currently the Choctaw Nation employee chaplain. Mr. Williams has preached at many churches and shares God’s word in the Choctaw News publication. He has also assisted countless people in need, visiting homes, hospitals, preaching and delivering hope without hesitation. Mr. Williams
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BENJAMIN “BEN” YAHOLA Muscogee Nation Benjamin “Ben” Yahola epitomizes the Muscogee Nation values of helping others, being humble and doing the right thing. Mr. Yahola has devoted decades of his life to the Muscogee people with little thought of financial reward. He is well-known as a tireless teacher and volunteer for the Muscogee Nation. Mr. Yahola has worked for the Seminole and Muscogee Nations in youth programs, communal gardens and tobacco education programs. Mr. Yahola is a fluent speaker of the Muscogee language, a competence vital to preserving the Tribe’s culture for future generations.
TIM ZIENTEK Citizen Potawatomi Nation Tim Zientek’s impact on the communities in and around the Citizen Potawatomi Nation’s tribal jurisdiction is vitally important, especially in times of emergency. Mr. Zientek serves as the Citizen Potawatomi Nation’s director of emergency management and housekeeping, a position he has held since 2000. He has become one of the Tribe’s key employees by leading public safety, emergency management and housekeeping duties on tribal properties. In his capacity as an emergency manager, Mr. Zientek is an essential partner for the Citizen Potawatomi Nation’s cooperative agreements with nearby communities. He manages the tribal volunteer fire department and recently assisted with the response to non-tribal agencies’ needs during a recent wildfire outbreak. Mr. Zientek supervised the installation of multiple upgrades to the tribal-managed county 911 emergency response system and increased radio coverage to longunderserved rural areas. He also coordinated Citizen Potawatomi Nation Health Services, Pottawatomie County and FEMA for COVID-19 vaccination events, serving more than 6,000 community members. Mr. Zientek serves as the chair of the Oklahoma Intertribal Emergency Management Coalition, a coalition of tribal emergency managers across the state.
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In addition, Mr. Zientek is responsible for the upkeep and sanitation of more than a dozen tribal properties and supervises large-scale logistical support for large events. These events serve neighboring non-tribal communities in need of tables, chairs, event tents and more.
CURTIS ZUNIGHA Delaware Tribe Curtis Zunigha’s Delaware Indian ancestors arrived in Indian Territory in 1867, and he is a fifth-generation resident of Washington County. Chief Zunigha has served his tribe and its members in various roles since 1984. He began in management of tribal operations, housing and social services. He was later elected to the tribal council and served from 1984 to 1988 and 2004 to 2008. Chief Zunigha was also appointed to the Indian Affairs Commission by Gov. Frank Keating in 1990. Chief Zunigha was elected as Delaware Tribe Chief in 1994 and held this position until 1998. He later worked for the U.S. Census Bureau during the 2010 census, managing the American Indian/Alaska Native Population Program. Chief Zunigha currently serves as the cultural director for the Delaware Tribe and is an acknowledged expert on Delaware/Lenape history, culture, language and traditional practices. He is also a co-director of the Lenape Center, a New York Citybased non-profit arts and culture organization. Chief Zunigha is a veteran of the U.S. Air Force, serving from 1972 to 1978. He earned a Bachelor of Business Administration from North Texas State University in 1986 and an associate degree in broadcasting from Rogers State College in 1986.
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Past Recipients ABSENTEE SHAWNEE TRIBE Ms. Johnnie Mae Bettelyoun Ms. Mary Birdtail Mr. George Blanchard Ms. Wynona Coon Ms. Reta Marie Wilson-Harjo Mr. Walter L. Larney Ms. Redena Blanchard Miller Ms. Esteline Sloan Schulenberg Ms. Jenifer Sloan Mr. Larry Spybuck Mr. Melpherd Switch Ms. Dara Thorpe Ms. Meredith Wahpekeche Ms. Pauline White Wahpepah Mrs. Charlene EdwardsWhittington ALABAMA-QUASSARTE TRIBAL TOWN Mrs. Sinah Manley BirdCreek Mr. F.B. Fish Chief Nelson Scott Harjo Sr. Mrs. Evelyn McLemore Ms. Diana Moppin Mr. Turner Scott Mrs. Lucinda Lou Tiger Mr. Jack Yargee Mekko Robert L.Yargee Ms. Winey Yargee Chief Tarpie Yargee APACHE TRIBE Mr. William “Bill’ F. Tennyson Berry Mr. Harry Kaudlekaule Mr. Gregg Klinekole Jr. Mr. Nathan “Jumbo” Tselee
CADDO NATION Col. Louis “Buddy” Bedoka Dr. Guyneth Bedoka Cardwell Mr. Phillip Cross Ms. Mary Lou Davis Ms. Ann Louis Bedoka Donaghey Mr. Randlett Edmonds Mr. Joeseph “Joe” Exendine Mrs. Billie Ruth Hoff Mr. John Wayne Kionut Mr. Dwight Pickering Ms. Jereldine “Jeri” Redcorn Ms. Carol Ross Ms. Gayle Cussen Satepauhoodle Ms. Janie Tartsah CHEROKEE NATION Ms. Mary Rector Aitson Dr. Richard Allen Mr. Buel Anglen Mr. Jack Baker Mr. Justin Bolen Mrs. Karyn Braswell Ms. Rosa Carter Mr. John Wayne Cloud Ms. Beverly Cowan Ret. SFC. Norman Crowe Ms. Carol “Jane” Davis Ms. Sharon Dawes Mrs. Nancy Hansen Edwards Mr. J. C. Elliot Mrs. Mae Dean Erb Mr. Gary Farris Dr. John Farris Mr. Bill Glass Jr. Mr. Joe Grayson Mr. James Franklin Hail Mr. Dennis “Jay” Hannah Ms. Dianne Barker Harrold Mr. Bill Horton Mr. John Ketcher
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Pr. D.J. McCarter Mrs. Doris “Coke” Lane Meyer Ms. Rebecca “Becky” Meyer Mrs. Marcella Morton Mrs. Winnie Guess-Perdue Mr. Ira M. Phillips Ms. Frances Ramsey Mr. Jimmy L. Reeder Ms. Lucinda Robbins Ms. Fan Robinson Mr. Calvin Rock Mr. Mark Rogers Mr. Crosslin Fields Smith Mr. Henry Smoke Mr. Curtis Snell Mr. Charlie Soap Mr. Bud Andrew Squirrel Mr. Hickory Starr Ms. Ollie Starr Ms. Betty Starr-Barker Ms. Ida Sue Stopp Mr. Ross Swimmer Mr. Joe T. Thornton Dr. Pamela Jumper Thurman Mr. Jack Townsend Mr. Raymond Vann Mrs. Ronda Williams CHEYENNE AND ARAPAHO TRIBES Ms. Erma Jean Brown Col. Ralph Dru Mr. Darrell G. Flyingman Mr. Albert GreyEagle Ms. Irene D. Hamilton USMC Matheson Hamilton Chief Lawrence Hart Dr. Henrietta Mann Mr. Charles Pratt Mr. Harvey Phillip Pratt Mr. Quinton Roman Nose
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. Richard Dean Williams Mr. Robert Wilson CHICKASAW NATION Mr. James “Jim” Anderson Mr. John Edwin Anderson 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 Ms. Tewanna Edwards Mrs. Ramona Eyachabbe Ms. Carolyn Sue Fish Ms. Glenda Galvan Ms. Mary Jo Green Mr. Don Hayes Mr. Ron Hayes Mr. Melvin Imotichey Ms. Rose Jefferson Hon. Mary Jane Lowery Rep. Neal McCaleb Mrs. Dean McManus Ms. Merry Monroe Mr. Levi Orphan 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. Margie Testerman Mr. Stephen Wall Mr. Bennett “Ben” Clark White Ms. Patricia Ann Woods CHOCTAW NATION Mr. Jack Austin Sr. Mrs. Carole Ayers Mrs. Lorene Blaine Rev. Bertram Bobb Mrs. Doretha Bowen Ms. Mary Ann Brittan Mr. Delton Cox Mr. Thomas J. Dry Mrs. Sue Folsom Mrs. Rosa Taylor Gilmore Mr. Ernest Hooser Ms. Nellie Hunter Mr. Sylvester Moore Ms. Mona Lea Perry Mr. Walter Phelps Ms. Norma Price Ms. Linda Skinner Mr. Leo Smallwood Ms. Marcie Smith Mr. Claude Sumner Ms. Harriet Tehauno Ms. Betty War Ms. Linda Watson Rev. Donald Eugene “Gene” Wilson Ms. Evangeline Wilson Mrs. Robin Woodley Mr. Gilbert Mike “Choc” Charleston
CITIZEN POTAWATOMI NATION Mr. David Barrett Chm. John “Rocky” Barrett Vice Chm. Linda Capps Mr. Leon Cross Ms. Mary Deathrage Ms. Beverly Hughes Mr. Alan Kelly Mr. Joe Miller Mr. William Nadean Ms. Loretta Barrett-Oden Ms. Mary Ann Powell Ms. Annamaria Simpson Mrs. Carmelita Skeeter Mr. Doyle Morton Thompson Ms. Margaret Zientek COMANCHE NATION Mr. George Briscoe II Chm. Wallace Coffey Mr. Kenneth Coosewoon Mrs. Rita Coosewoon Mr. Conrad Galey Ms. Barbara Goodin Ms. LaDonna Harris Mr. Leon Hawzipta Jr. Ms. Cornelia Quoetone-Karty Mr. Barthell Little Chief Ms. Martha “Adele” Mihesuah Ms. Juanita Pahdopony Dr. Cornel Pewewardy Mr. Bill Shoemate Mr. Jack Shoemate Ms. Sherry Smith Mr. Milton Sovo Mr. Thurman Ray Tahsuda Mrs. Deloris R. Twohatchet Dr. Robbie Wahnee Mr. Joe Wahnee Jr. Ms. Josephine Myers-Wapp
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Past Recipients Dr. Linda Sue Warner Rev. Videll Yackeschi DELAWARE NATION Ms. Kelly Flow Ms. Georgia Gallegos Mr. Tom Holder Mr. Frank Osborne Jr. Ms. Linda Sue Poolaw Ms. Mary Dean Rice Mr. Jim VanDeman Ms. Gladys Yackeyonny DELAWARE TRIBE Mr. Allan R. Barnes Mr. Howard Barnes Chief Chester “Chet” Brooks Mr. Raymond M. Cline Asst. Chief Bonnie Jo Griffith Mrs. Annette Ketchum Mr. Dee Ketchum Mr. Lewis Ketchum Mr. Charles Randall Mrs. Bonnie Thaxton Ms. Barbara Jean Falleaf Anna Wallace Ms. Mary Watters Cm. Larry “Joe” Brooks Chief Jerry Douglas EASTERN SHAWNEE TRIBE Mr. John Daughtery Jr. Mr. Laurence “Larry” Dushane Mr. Charles Enyart Ms. Virginia Fanning Ms. Beverly Sue Hauser Rendel Mrs. Norma Kraus Chief Glenna Wallace EUCHEE (YUCHI) TRIBE Ms. Maxine Wildcat Barnett Dr. Richard A. Grounds
Mr. Arthur K. James Mrs. Vada Foster Tiger Nichwander Ms. Amy Sue Jones Yargee FORT SILL APACHE TRIBE Mr. Leland Michael Darrow Mr. Lupe A. Gooday Sr. Mr. Benedict Kawaykla Mr. Michael Pratt Kawaykla IOWA TRIBE Mr. Eugene Big Soldier Mr. Jacob “Jake” Big Solider Jr. Ms. Linda Big Soldier Ms. JoAnn Big Soldier Mayes Ms. Joyce Big Soldier-Miller Ms. Kathryn Josie Springer Gashwazrah Mrs. Ruby Nell Gibson Logan Ms. E. Bernadette Huber Mr. Franklin “Frank” Murray Ms. Emma Louise Smith Mr. Victor Roubidoux Ms. Janice Rowe-Kurak Ms. Mae Sine Mrs. Rachel Lynn Walkup Ms. Jackie Sine Young KAW NATION Ms. Mary Butler Mr. James Pepper Henry Ms. Jacque Secondine-Hensley Mr. Charles “Sonny” Holloway Ms. Eva Munroe-Jones Mr. Curtis Kekahbah Mr. Guy Munroe Mr. Luther Pepper Chm. Wanda Stone Ms. Tahagena “Gena” Warren Chairwoman Lynn Williams
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KIALEGEE TRIBAL TOWN Ms. Leola Barnett Ms. June Fixico Rev. Bill Hobia Ms. Brenda Leftwich Ms. Jennie Anderson-Lillard Ms. Susie Martinez KICKAPOO TRIBE Ms. Judy Deer-Coser Mr. Clarence Deer Ms. Jenell Downs Ms. Juanita Johnson Ms. Emma Murdock Mr. Cecil Wahpekeche Ms. Francena Wahweah Wahpepah Mr. Lawrence Wahpepah Mr. Bob White KIOWA TRIBE Mr. James Anquoe Mr. Nelson BigBow Mr. Jerry C. Bread Ms. Arlene Sue Bates Caesar Ms. Dorothy WhitehorseDeLaune Ms. Frances Harried “Della” Doyebi Mr. Parker Emhoolah Ms. Sharron Ahtone-Harjo Mr. Gary Kodaseet Ms. Cornelia “Pat” Kopepassah Hon. Philip LuJan Dr. N. Scott Momaday Mr. Dixon Palmer Mr. Lyndreth “Tugger” Palmer Mr. Burt Patadal Mr. John Pinezaddleby Ms. Georgette “G.G.” PalmerSmith Mr. Luke Toyebo Sr.
Mr. Gene E. Tsatoke Mr. Duke Tsoodle Mr. George “Chuck” Tsoodle Mr. Vernon Tsoodle Ms. Modina Waters Mr. Matthew “Mac” Whitehorse Ms. Julian Q. Whorton Dr. Diane Willis Ms. Darlene Hovakah-Wolf Ms. Francine Worthington MIAMI TRIBE Mr. James Battese Mr. Royce Carter Ms. Judy C. Davis Mr. Tim LaFalier Mr. Jerry Lankford Mr. Frank Leonard Mr. Nadine Mayfield Mr. Wilbur “Webb” Tipton Ms. Mildred Walker Mayor Neal Watson MODOC TRIBE Ms. Judy Cobb Mr. Phil Follis Mr. Ted McCullum Ms. Ramona Rosiere Mr. Jack W. Shadwick MUSCOGEE 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. Allan Colbert Mr. Phillip Coon Mr. George Coser Dr. Peter G. Coser
Mr. Bill J. Davis Ms. Myrtle Denney Principal Chief A.D. Ellis Ms. Leona Fish Principal Chief James Floyd Ret. Tsgt. Jess “Mick” Freeman Jr. Ms. Pauline Haney Mr. Eugene Harjo Mr. Keeper Johnson Ms. Matilda King Mrs. Candy Fish Klumpp Ms. Rebecca Lindsey Ms. Rosalee “Rose” Marshall Mr. William Moore Ms. Susie “Sue” Morgan Mr. Scott Roberts Mrs. DeLois Louise Dunzy Roulston Mrs. Joy Harjo-Sapulpa Dr. Lahoma Schultz Mrs. Augusta “Gus” Smith Ret. Jus. George Thompson Mr. George Phillp Tiger Mr. Jon Mark Tiger Jus. Leah Harjo-Ware Ms. Mickey White Mr. Richard Ray Whitman Former Speaker Thomas Leroy Yahola OSAGE NATION Ms. Mary Gray-Bighorse Ms. Jerri Jean Branstetter Ms. Anita Fields Mr. Charles Eugene “Chuck” Hessert Ms. Denise Keene Ms. Nancy Keil Mr. Charles Lookout Mr. H. Mongraine Lookout Ms. Nicki Revard-Lorenzo
Capt. Richard Luttrell Sr. Mrs. Sheri Mashburn Mr. Bill Mashunkashey Mr. Franklin McKinley Dr. Steven Pratt Cm. Kathryn Red Corn Mr. Charles Harold RedCorn Ms. Mary Elizabeth Ricketts Mr. Romaine Shackelford Mr. George A. Shannon Mr. Jerry Shaw Mr. Ronald Blaine Shaw Mrs. Roberta Sue Slinkard Ms. Martha Spotted Bear Mr. Marvin Stepson Jr. Ms. Cecelia Irene Tallchief Mr. George E. Tallchief Mr. Tim Tallchief Ms. Anita Lookout-West Ms. Julia Wilson Ms. Rosemary Wood OTOE-MISSOURIA TRIBE Ms. Joan Aitson AAG. Susan Arkeketa Mr. Don Childs Mr. Hank Childs Mr. Joseph “Joe” Dent Ms. Lorena DeRoin Dr. Aaron Gawhega Ms. Cornelia Mae Gosney Mr. Ted Grant Ms. Freida Homeratha Ms. Arkeketa LeClair Ms. Kim Arkeketa-McHenry Mr. Alvin Moore Sr. Ms. Annette Arkeketa-Rendon Mr. Baptiste Shunatona Ms. Virginia Thomas Mr. Randall Whitehorn Mrs. Barbara Childs Walton Ms. Dorcas Kent Williams
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Past Recipients OTTAWA TRIBE Mr. Larry Angelo Chief Ethel Cook Mrs. Charla Dawes Ms. Sharon Den Hoed Ms. Coweta Ulrey PAWNEE NATION Mr. Alva James “Jimmy” Atkins Mr. Neill Bayhylle Mr. Bruce Caesar Ms. Cordelia Clapp Mr. Marshall R. Gover Mrs. Dawna “Riding In” Hare Mrs. Deb Echo-Hawk Mr. John E. Echo-Hawk Mr. George Elton Howell Mr. Charles A. Lone Chief Jr. Mr. Duane Pratt Sr. Mr. Henry Chapman Stoneroad Mr. Roy Weeks Taylor Mr. Richard Tilden PEORIA TRIBE Miss Annette Black Mr. Wayne Blalock Mr. Emmett “Bud” Ellis Chief John P. Froman Ms. Alice Roberta HedgesLindsley Ms. Carolyn Garren-Ritchey PONCA TRIBE Mr. Tony Arkeketa Ms. Therese Buffalohead Mr. Louis Headman Mrs. Casey Camp-Horinek Mr. John Lee Kemble Mr. Christopher Lee LittleCook Mr. Steve Pensoneau Ms. Maxine Williams-Thompson Ms. Barbara Warner Ms. Evona “Eve” Williams
QUAPAW NATION Chief John Berrey Mr. Lloyd Buffalo Mrs. Charlene Leading Fox Button Ms. Barbara Kyser-Collier Ms. JoKay Dowell Mr. Henry McNeer Ellick Ms. Grace Goodeagle Mr. Jim Greenfeather Ms. Jean Ann Lambert Ms. Florence Whitecrow Matthews Ms. Ardina Revard Moore Ms. Risë Supernaw Proctor Ms. Rhonda Weaver SAC AND FOX NATION Ms. Peggy Acoya Ms. Judy Crain Baggett Ms. Lena “Ellis” Pennock Clark Ms. Mary “Spooner” Ellis Dr. Rev. Emerson Falls Mr. Keith Franklin Mr. Henry Buck McClellan Mr. Wallace “Bud” McClellan Ms. Mary Frances McCormick Mr. Sam Morris Ms. Stella M. Nullake-Nanaeto Principal Chief Elizabeth Rhoads Mr. John R. “Jack” Thorpe Mr. William Thorpe Ms. Stella Wilson Mr. Freeland Wood SEMINOLE NATION Ms. Diana Autaubo Ms. Velma Coker Asst. Chief Ella Colman Mr. Joe Coon Ms. Gracie Dailey Ms. Eula Doonkeen Mr. Kotcha Doonkeen
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Mrs. Mary Ann Emarthle Ms. Nancy Fixico Ms. Anna Givens Mr. Enoch Kelly Haney Mr. Jerry Haney Mrs. Terri Denise Haney Ms. Fannie Harjo Mrs. Darlene Henneha Cm. Charlie Hill Ms. Priscilla Ann Palmer Johnson Ms. Marilyn Jumper Ms. Dena Tiger-Kloehr Mrs. June Lee Mrs. Jane McGiesey Ms. Joanna Palmer-Morris Ms. Greta Haney Ruminer Sgt. Danny Tiger Ms. Shirley Walker Mrs. Cynthia Yerby SENECA-CAYUGA NATION Mr. Charles Diebold Ms. Vestena “Foxie” Emerson Ms. Nadine Hilliard Chief Leroy Howard Mr. Wayne Smith SHAWNEE TRIBE Mr. Tony Booth Ms. Roberta Janell Coombes Mr. Freddie Halfmoon Ms. Georgie Honey Ms. Patsy Lorene Johnson Ms. Ruthe Blalock Jones Mr. Doyle Barry Kerr Mr. Scott Secondine Ms. Carolyn Smith Chm. James Squirrel
THLOPTHLOCCO TRIBAL TOWN Ms. Rosalie Bateman Ms. Grace Bunner Ms. Dorothy Burden Mr. Joe Kinsley Canard Ms. Nora Cheek Mr. Charles Coleman Ms. Billie Curry Mr. Chebon Dacon Ms. Melinda Ann Gibson Mr. Wilbert Lowe Ms.Elsie Mae Martin Ms. VaRene Martin Ms. Sandra Dacon-Medrano Mrs. Elizabeth Trickey TONKAWA TRIBE Ms. Barbara Allen Mr. Don Patterson Mr. Jim Schreen UNITED KEETOOWAH BAND OF CHEROKEE INDIANS Ms. Ernestine Berry Mr. John William Cornsilk Ms. Rebecca Dreadfulwater 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 Mrs. Thedis Mitchell Mr. Stuart Owings Mrs. Rose Roberson Ms. Marsha Rose Mr. James “Bunny” Ross Mr. Myles Stephenson Sr. Mr. Franklin Dale Swift Mrs. Rochelle Swift Ms. Mary Louise Stevenson Tselee Mr. Stratford Williams Ms. Betty Jo Rowland-Wolfe
DR. JOHN AND TEWANNA EDWARDS LEADERSHIP AWARD RECIPIENTS 2019 Wes Studi, Cherokee Nation
WYANDOTTE NATION Mr. Leaford Bearskin Chief Billy Friend Mr. Larry Wayne Hamilton Mr. Norman B. Hildebrand Jr. Mr. David Keffer Mr. Tom D. Keffer Ms. Juanita Long McQuiston Mr. Ted Nesvold Mr. Walter Watts
2015 Dr. Tom Anderson, Cherokee Nation
2018 Dr. Judy Goforth Parker, Chickasaw Nation 2017 Dr. Henrietta Mann, Cheyenne and Arapaho Tribes of Oklahoma 2016 Rev. Dr. David Wilson, Choctaw Nation
2014 Chief Gregory Pyle, Choctaw Nation
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AARP Oklahoma Executive Council JoeAnn Vermillion, State President Modina Allen Wayne Blackmon Tewanna Edwards MaryAnn Morris Mary Overall
AARP Oklahoma State Office Sean Voskuhl State Director Melanie Henry Associate State Director, Communications and Outreach Melba Knight Senior Operations Associate Joy McGill Associate State Director, Outreach Chad Mullen Associate State Director, Advocacy Mashell Sourjohn Associate State Director, Outreach
126 North Bryant Avenue Edmond, Oklahoma 73034 866-295-7277 aarp.org/ok aarp.org/nativeorigins facebook.com/AARPOK Twitter: @AARPOklahoma 40 | AARP Oklahoma Indian Elder Honors 2021 Indian Elders Honors_2021_V4.indd 40
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