14th Annual AARP Oklahoma
Native American Elder Honors
Indian Elder Honors
Native American Elder Honors | 1
Dear Friends, The elders we celebrate today at the 14th annual AARP Oklahoma Native American Elder Honors connect and ground us to our past, keep us mindfully present and inspire future generations to become better curators of communities and cultures. We are privileged to share their inspiring stories and applaud their many achievements as they strengthen their communities and serve others. AARP is dedicated to enhancing the quality of life for all as we age. We lead positive social change and deliver value to members through advocacy, service, and information. These honored elders embody AARP's mission and, through example, motivate others to follow suit and selflessly serve their communities. Today, we honor these treasured elders whose influence and wisdom are both revered and respected. Individually, their accomplishments are remarkable. In totality, their impact is breathtaking throughout Indian Country and our nation. To all our 2022 AARP Oklahoma Native American Elder honorees and past honorees: thank you for being extraordinary examples of the difference that we all can make in others' lives and the well-being and vitality of our community. We thank you, and God bless.
Sean W. Voskuhl AARP Oklahoma State Director 2 | 2022 AARP Oklahoma
Evening Events
AARP Oklahoma Native American Elder Honors Hors d’oeuvres Oklahoma Fancy Dancers Invocation – Osage Blessing, Dr. Steven Pratt In Memoriam – John Hamilton Welcome - Master of Ceremonies Sean Voskuhl, AARP Oklahoma State Director Dr. John and Tewanna Edwards Leadership Award Intermission Presentation of medallions
Run of Show to go here.
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Dr. John & Tewanna Edwards Leadership Award Tewanna Edwards Chickasaw Nation
Tewanna Edwards, a Chickasaw Nation citizen and Choctaw 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 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. 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
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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 served on the AARP Oklahoma Executive Council. She and her husband, John, helped establish the AARP Oklahoma Native American Elder Honors (formerly known as the Indian Elder Honors). Mrs. Edwards was named an 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 (1935-2014) 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. 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 helped establish the AARP Oklahoma Indian Elder Honors program, now known as Native American Elder Honors.
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Alistair Bane
Eastern Shawnee Tribe Alistair Bane is an accomplished artist, writer and engaging storyteller. He enjoys working in various mediums, including quilting, acrylic on canvas and beadwork. Mr. Bane feels each medium uniquely allows him to express different aspects of life. Mr. Bane was a resident artist at the Denver Art Museum in 2016. He enjoys teaching others and has held classes for various organizations throughout the country, often focusing on art to heal generational trauma. Mr. Bane serves as host and storyteller of “The Moth Radio Hour.” He also frequently performs at The Moth Mainstage Shows. In his spare time, Mr. Bane volunteers to foster and rehabilitate dogs for dog rescue organizations.
Dolores Subia BigFoot Caddo Nation
Dolores Subia BigFoot, Ph.D., generously shares her expertise and knowledge to help and serve individuals throughout Indian Country. A presidential professor, Dr. BigFoot directs the Indian Country Child Trauma Center within the University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center’s Center on Child Abuse and Neglect. Dr. BigFoot currently directs Project Making Medicine, which trains mental health providers to address child maltreatment using culturally-based teachings. In 2004, Dr. BigFoot was instrumental in culturally adapting four evidence-based child treatment protocols for the Indian Country Child Trauma Center. Dr. BigFoot was appointed to the National Commission on Native Children in June 2019, where 6 | 2022 AARP Oklahoma
she will serve until 2024. In 2020, Dr. BigFoot was awarded grants from the National Suicide Prevention Resource Center and the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration to support and assist suicide prevention programs across the country.
John (John John) Brown Muscogee Nation
John “John John” Brown encompasses the traits of a revered tribal elder: wisdom, humility, a servant to his tribe and people, patience and devotion. A lifelong learner, Mr. Brown continues to teach himself how to make new tools and craft traditional weaponry. Mr. Brown says the Creator gifted his skills so that he can ensure traditions are passed down and never forgotten. He is a leader of the Muscogee Bowshooters Society and teaches others how to make bows. Mr. Brown’s impact extends beyond Oklahoma to the Muscogee Nation homelands in Alabama and Georgia. Those in Alabama and Georgia might know him better as the Bowman or Canoe Man. He is currently assisting Ocmulgee Mounds National Historic Park in building a dugout canoe to serve as a learning tool for park visitors. The canoe will eventually be exhibited in the park’s museum in Macon, Georgia. Mr. Brown is also an active member of his ceremonial ground, Duck Creek, where he serves on the council. His positive impact spans generations as he continues to share his knowledge with others.
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Kenny Brown
Delaware Tribe of Indians Kenny Brown is Lenape and a citizen of the Delaware Tribe of Indians. His Lenape name is Oka-SHEEheluk, one who runs fast, or Fast Runner. After graduating from McLain High School in Tulsa, Mr. Brown entered the U.S. Army, where he served for six years in the Army 1st Battalion, 66th Armor, 2nd Armored Division. He also served one year in the Air National Guard, 138th Support Wing. Mr. Brown is the chairman of the veterans committee and oversees the Wall of Honor veterans memorial on tribal land in Bartlesville. He has a keen eye for detail from his 55-year career as a structural steel draftsman. Mr. Brown is also an active member of the Lenape Gourd society, Lenape veterans color guard and the Delaware powwow. Like his grandfather, Anderson Wilson, and his Uncle Isaac “Ike” Secondine, who went to Washington D.C. in the 1920s to fight for treaty rights, Mr. Brown is devoted to preserving the Delaware tribal culture, language and traditions.
Christie Byars-Chavez Chickasaw Nation
Christie Byars-Chavez is a member of the Chickasaw Nation and a descendent of the Mississippi Choctaw. She earned a phlebotomy and medical terminology certification from Southern Oklahoma Technology Center in 1993. Mrs. Byars-Chavez’s 24-year career with the Chickasaw Nation focused on several areas including tobacco cessation, alcohol and drug prevention, and suicide awareness and prevention. 8 | 2022 AARP Oklahoma
She was a founding member of the Preparing for the 7th Generation commercial tobacco prevention and education conference. Mrs. Byars-Chavez currently works on a grant with the Ethical, Legal and Social Implications Research Program administered by the National Human Genome Research Institute.
Jimmy Ray Caddo Comanche Nation
Jimmy Ray Caddo attended the Fort Sill Indian Boarding School from age six until graduation. In 1952, he joined the Navy and later retired as ship serviceman 1st class. Mr. Caddo is one of only four remaining Comanches who fought in the Korean War. He also proudly served in the Vietnam War. Mr. Caddo was bestowed with many military recognitions, including Navy Commendation, Navy Achievement, Good Conduct, National Defense, Korean Service, United Nations, Vietnam Service and Vietnam Gallantry Cross W1960 Device honors. Mr. Caddo is the founder of “The Prayer Warriors” group and is a chaplain. Its mission is to visit elders in nursing homes, hospitals and the homebound. Upon request, Mr. Caddo performs special services. He considers being a loving husband, father and grandfather his most outstanding achievements. Mr. Caddo is an elder loved and respected by all who meet him.
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Thomas Carlile Cherokee Nation
For decades, Thomas Carlile, D.O., selflessly served his tribal community by providing holistic, compassionate care. Dr. Carlile is a graduate of Capitol Hill High School, Central State College and the Kansas City College of Osteopathic Medicine. He established his 59-year family practice in Oklahoma City. Dr. Carlile served as an Oklahoma State University regent and board member and led the effort for the university to acquire a college of medicine. This ultimately resulted in Indian Country’s first and only college of medicine. Dr. Carlile also served as president of the Oklahoma Osteopathic Association, chief of staff at Hillcrest Hospital and regent for South Oklahoma Junior College. Gov. George Nigh appointed him to the Oklahoma School of Osteopathic Medicine board of regents, where he served from 1980 - 1988. In 2004, Dr. Carlile was honored as “Doctor of the Year” by the Oklahoma Osteopathic Association. Dr. Carlile avidly researches Cherokee history and has traced his roots back to his family members who came to Oklahoma during the Trail of Tears.
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Theresa Carter Kiowa Tribe
Theresa Carter has spent her life in Anadarko pursuing her passions of education, family, faith and culture. Ms. Carter was the first in her family to attend college. She earned bachelor’s and master’s degrees from the University of Central Oklahoma and pursued a career as a speech pathologist. She worked in the Lookeba-Sickles, Anadarko and Lawton Public Schools and the Sooner Start program. Ms. Carter has been a lifelong advocate for Native students to pursue higher education and to learn about their cultural heritage. Ms. Carter began making regalia under the tutelage of her grandmother. She pursued her passion by studying with accomplished beadworkers and earned a fellowship at the Smithsonian Institute to study Kiowa regalia. Ms. Carter is well-known for her buckskin dresses, moccasins and leggings that display the Kiowa construction style and beadwork. Ms. Carter is an active member of the Kiowa Black Leggings Auxiliary, Southwest Chapter Vietnam Veterans Auxiliary and a friend of the K’itikitish (Wichita Little Sisters). She has held leadership roles with the Kiowa Tia-Piah Society and Kiowa War Mothers Chapter 18. Ms. Carter’s faith is integral to her life. She is encouraged when she hears the Kiowa language and hymns in church services. Ms. Carter volunteers during the Indian Methodist conference and serves on numerous church committees at J.J. Methvin United Methodist Church.
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Sherri Clemons
Wyandotte Nation Sherri Clemons is dedicated to the Wyandotte Nation and is considered a friend to all. While serving as the Wyandotte Nation heritage director, Ms. Clemons worked closely with tribal princesses and oversaw the Wyandotte Nation’s powwow. She also helped form the tribe’s first honor guard. Ms. Clemons served on the Native American Graves Protection Repatriation Committee, which assists with restoring human remains to proper burial sites. She also works with authorities to return the remains to designated museums, universities and government agencies. Ms. Clemons’ free time is filled with community activities such as the Easter egg hunt, tribal Christmas party, Nation Night Out, Little Turtles and The Gathering. Ms. Clemons seeks to improve her community, and her diverse work touches countless lives.
Curtis Lee Douglas Seminole Nation
Curtis Lee Douglas graduated with honors from Wewoka High School. He earned a bachelor’s degree from East Central University and a Master of Education from the University of Central Oklahoma. Mr. Douglas was employed as a Head Start teacher and supervisor. He also served as interim director for the Cheyenne and Arapaho and Seminole Nation Head Start programs and taught at the Riverside Indian School in Anadarko. Other roles included guidance counselor, chemical dependency assistant, correctional officer and security officer.
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Mr. Douglas also served as a legislator on the Seminole Nation’s general council. He faithfully attends tribal meetings, volunteers at tribal events and serves his community by helping others with cleaning and yard work. He also provides rides to those without transportation.
Elvis E. Ellis
Sac and Fox Nation Elvis E. Ellis joined the National Guard in high school and immediately began active duty when the 45th Division was mobilized. He was stationed worldwide for 25 years while serving in the U.S. Army and Air Force. Following his retirement, Mr. Ellis worked for 21 years at Tinker Air Force Base. Mr. Ellis followed in his father’s footsteps as chief of the Fish Clan. He also served as chairman and secretary of the Sac and Fox elders advisory committee. Mr. Ellis currently serves as the Native American Graves Protection and Repatriation Act committee chairman.
Jacque Gray
Choctaw Nation Jacque Gray, Ph.D., has worked with tribes throughout Indian Country for 40 years in health, education, counseling and program development. Dr. Gray earned a Bachelor of Science in Laboratory Technology from the University of Oklahoma, a Master of Education in Guidance and Counseling Psychology from the University of Oklahoma and a doctorate in applied behavioral studies from Oklahoma State University. Native American Elder Honors | 13
Dr. Gray previously worked at the Oklahoma Health Sciences Center and the Creek County Health Department. She developed a rural crisis intervention program and an adolescent suicide prevention program, both of which were adopted statewide. Dr. Gray testified to Congress about American Indian youth suicide and elder abuse and served on the Health and Human Services advisory committee. She also served in leadership roles at the Society of Indian Psychologists, American Psychological Association and Psychologists in Indian Country. Dr. Gray is currently the principal investigator for the National Indigenous Elder Justice Initiative at the University of North Dakota School of Medicine and Health Sciences Center for Rural Health. She is also a research associate professor emerita. Dr. Gray is a member of the American Counseling Association, the American Orthopsychiatric Association, the Native Research Network and the American Society on Aging. She serves on the Alzheimer’s Association oversight committee and the North Dakota Suicide Prevention Coalition. Dr. Gray is also a consultant for the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration’s Disaster Technical Assistance Center. Dr. Gray received the Excellence in Training award in 2012 and a Presidential Citation in 2014 from the American Psychological Association.
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Margo Gray
Osage Nation Margo Gray is a proud Osage businesswoman and the president of Margo Gray and Associates. Ms. Gray received her education at Northeastern State University in Tahlequah and the Dartmouth College Tuck School of Business in Hanover, New Hampshire. Her background includes many years in tribal law enforcement and tribal government services. In addition to many state and local activities, she currently serves as a board member for the American Indian Business Network and the National Indian Gaming Association. She is also an active member of Women Empowering Women for Indian Nations. Ms. Gray has spoken at numerous conferences across the U.S. and advocated for Native American businesses. Ms. Gray’s leadership and determination have earned her numerous prestigious honors and awards, including The Journal Record’s “50 Making a Difference,” which recognizes Oklahoma’s leading women. Ms. Gray also received the Badger Award for Tenacity and Perseverance in Business from the American Indian Business Leaders Association, as well as the Georgeann Robinson Humanitarian Award presented by the Oklahoma Federation of Indian Women. She has been featured on the workingwomen.com website and in the book, “Smart Women Take Risks.” Ms. Gray’s flagship company, Horizon Engineering Services, was the 2004 recipient of the National Indian Business Association’s Outstanding National Native American Woman-Owned Business Award. Ms. Gray and Horizon Engineering Services earned the 2005 National Center for American Indian Native American Elder Honors | 15
Enterprise Development’s Indian Business Owner of the Year award and the 2007 State Business of the Year award from the American Indian Chamber of Commerce of Oklahoma. Ms. Gray is active in her Osage culture and holds the position of head cook at the Jenny Gray Chapter of the Native American church, a high honor for a woman in her Osage culture.
Charles Grim
Cherokee Nation Charles Grim, D.D.S., is a retired assistant surgeon general and rear admiral in the Commissioned Corps of the United States Public Health Services. Dr. Grim currently serves as the secretary of health for the Chickasaw Nation, providing health care for 90,000 tribal citizens in 13 counties. Before this role, Dr. Grim was appointed by President George W. Bush as director of the Indian Health Service. He oversaw a nationwide multi-billion dollar health care delivery program that provided preventative, curative and community health care to nearly two million American Indians and Alaska Natives. Dr. Grim also served in various leadership roles in the Cherokee Nation health system, including executive director. Dr. Grim is a graduate of the University of Oklahoma College of Dentistry and holds a Master of Health Services Administration from the University of Michigan. He is board-certified in dental public health. Dr. Grim is also an Academy of General Dentistry fellow and an American Board of Dental Public Health diplomate. Honors include the Exemplary Service Medallion from the U.S. surgeon general, Health Leader of the Year from the 16 | 2022 AARP Oklahoma
Commissioned Officers Association and Alumni of the Year from the University of Oklahoma College of Dentistry. Dr. Grim proudly serves on numerous boards and professional associations.
Leonard Harjo
Seminole Nation Leonard M. Harjo graduated from Harvard with a Bachelor of Art in Economics and a Master of Public and Private Management from Yale. He served two consecutive terms as chief of the Seminole Nation of Oklahoma. Chief Harjo is a servant leader of unquestionable honesty, integrity and humility. He inspired and encouraged others to build their opportunities rather than create one for them. His vision established a foundation for a culturally and economically sustainable Seminole Nation. Chief Harjo sought to awaken the entrepreneurial spirit of the Seminole Nation by empowering people to develop strategic plans for achieving their goals. He said, “If you can gain a certain level of economic self-sufficiency, you get away from subsistence living. That allows you to think about a future and what we will do for our children as opposed to where we’re going to be living and what we will eat tomorrow.” In addition to chief, his many roles included tribal planner, director of economic development for the Seminole Nation and executive director of the Muscogee (Creek) Nation Division of Health Administration. He also worked for the Oklahoma Indian Affairs Commission and the United Tribes of Western Oklahoma and Kansas.
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Chief Harjo also served as a liaison to various tribal organizations and federal agencies, including Rural Enterprises Inc.’s board of directors and as a regent for Seminole State College. He currently serves as the chairman of the board of directors for the Seminole Nation Division of Commerce.
Delores Harragarra Kiowa Tribe
Delores Harragarra was born and raised on allotted Indian land near Carnegie. She graduated from the University of Oklahoma with a library science degree. Mrs. Harragarra worked as the librarian at Fort Sill and later at the Chilocco, Concho and Riverside Indian Schools. She also served in the library at the Oklahoma Capitol. Mrs. Harragarra was instrumental in establishing the library at the Bureau of Indian Affairs’ Sequoyah Indian School. Mrs. Harragarra is a full-blooded Kiowa and one of the few tribal elders who is fluent in the Kiowa language. She remembers when the Kiowa Gourd Clan spoke the language and said it saddens her heart that the Kiowa language is rarely spoken anymore. Mrs. Harragarra has been a mentor with the Kiowa Language Preservation program for the last five years in hopes of increasing Kiowa language usage. She enjoys passing on her vast knowledge of Kiowa tribal history and language to younger generations. Mrs. Harragarra is the historian for the Rainy Mountain Church and community. Her greatest reward is meeting wonderful people throughout her life and serving others.
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Marsha Lamb
Cherokee Nation Marsha Lamb has remained a constant fixture in the day-to-day operations at Cherokee Nation for more than three decades. Under her leadership as the Cherokee Nation Human Services executive director, the department helped thousands of Cherokee citizens with emergency utility payments, food security, childcare and more. The programs focus on stabilizing families and promoting self-sufficiency. Mrs. Lamb currently serves as a special advisor for Cherokee Nation Human Services. Mrs. Lamb was also instrumental in guiding the completion of the Cherokee Nation Veterans Center. Her dedication and service have positively impacted thousands of lives and positioned the Cherokee Nation for success.
Norman “Hominy” Littledave
United Keetoowah Band of Cherokee Indians Norman “Hominy” Littledave is full-blooded and a fluent native speaker. After graduating from Salina High School, Commander (Cmdr.) Littledave proudly served in the U.S. Air Force and fought in the Vietnam War. He enjoys working closely with elders and veterans and has served as commander for the United Keetoowah Band honor guard for the last 12 years. Cmdr. Littledave is also an active member of the 29 Eleven Assemblies of God Church in Tahlequah.
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Sheila Little-Harjo Seminole Nation
Sheila Little-Harjo’s contributions during her eightyear term as First Lady of the Seminole Nation of Oklahoma and a council representative for the Hecete Band are far-reaching. During her tenure as First Lady, Mrs. Little-Harjo served on the advisory board for the Seminole Nation Domestic Violence Program. A survivor of domestic violence from a previous marriage, she became an outspoken advocate for domestic violence victims. She also participated in public service announcements for the Department of Justice, American Indian Law and the National Indigenous Women’s Resource Center. Mrs. Little-Harjo helped establish the Seminole Nation Women’s Safe House program for abused women and children. She also started an annual quilt auction fundraiser for the Women’s Safe House. Thanks to her efforts, the program staff grew from one to 14 over six years. Mrs. Little-Harjo is an award-winning artist known for her Seminole patchwork designs, as well as traditional women, children and men’s clothing. Her beautiful work can be seen at Green Corn ceremonies and the annual Seminole Nation Days. Mrs. Little-Harjo also served in tribal roles such as budget officer and program director and on the Seminole Nation General Council.
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Deborah Margerum Ponca Tribe
Deborah Margerum is a proud Ponca Tribe of Oklahoma member and currently serves on the Ponca Tribal Council. Her deep affection for her fellow tribal members is reflected in her medical work. She strives to uphold the medical needs of her tribal community. Mrs. Margerum serves as the White Eagle Health Center director and is a counselor at the Ponca Tribe Social Development Center. Mrs. Margerum earned a bachelor’s degree in human services from Metropolitan State University in Denver and a Master of Counseling in Psychology from Northwestern Oklahoma State University.
John Henry Mashunkashey Osage Nation
An Osage elder and Marine Corps veteran who served in Vietnam, John Henry Mashunkashey has demonstrated his commitment and service to the Osage Nation and the United States throughout his lifetime. As a member of the Wa-Xa-Ko-Li’n District, he became the drumkeeper in 1972. Mr. Mashunkashey has served on the Pawhuska Committee for many drumkeepers since and is currently an advisor for the current drumkeeper. He also served a four-year elected term for the Osage Nation Minerals Council. Mr. Mashunkashey is a recipient of the U.S. Marine Corps Purple Heart for his service and sacrifice during the Vietnam War. He has been recognized as “Veteran of the Week” at the Oklahoma State Capitol. Mr. Mashunkashey was the past commandant of the Native American Elder Honors | 21
Department of Oklahoma Marine Corps League. He currently serves as the commandant of the Osage Detachment 669 and commander of the American Legion Post 198. Mr. Mashunkashey is also an Osage Nation War Memorial Commission member and was part of the planning efforts for the award-winning Veteran Memorial in Pawhuska.
Kevin Meeks
Chickasaw Nation Rear Admiral (RADM) Kevin Meeks was born in 1958 and raised in Byng. He earned a bachelor’s degree from East Central University and a master’s degree in public health from the University of Oklahoma. RADM Meeks is a longtime champion for increasing access to quality health services by working to add funding available to tribes and Indian Health Services (IHS), constructing new health care facilities, boosting the use of advanced telehealth technologies and more. RADM Meeks’ career began in 1987 in South Dakota, where he served as an environmental health specialist. In 1989, he transferred to Claremore, followed by an assignment to the Alaska Area IHS. From 1995 - 2009, he fulfilled various management positions in the Oklahoma City Area IHS office. RADM Meeks served as the area director of the Oklahoma City Area IHS from 2009 - 2017. He was ultimately promoted to the IHS deputy director of field operations in 2017, where he directed 12 IHS area offices and became a crucial leader in providing quality health care to 2.2 million American Indians/ Alaska Natives. Before RADM Meeks retired from the IHS in 2019, he served as the Oklahoma City 22 | 2022 AARP Oklahoma
Area IHS director and the IHS deputy director for field operations. In September 2020, Chickasaw Nation Gov. Bill Anoatubby appointed RADM Meeks as the deputy secretary of health for the Chickasaw Nation Department of Health. That same year, he was inducted into the Chickasaw Hall of Fame. RADM Meeks was also awarded the Surgeon General’s Medallion by U.S. Surgeon General Jerome Adams in 2018. He received the Surgeon General’s Exemplary Service Medal and the Distinguished Service Medal in 2019. RADM Meeks was appointed to the Department of Veterans Affairs Advisory Committee on Tribal and Indian Affairs in 2021.
Zack Morris
Sac and Fox Nation Zack Morris is a member of the Sac and Fox Nation. Mr. Morris shares his wisdom as an educator, teaching information on Native American ways and Native American people. He also shares his spiritual expressions through tribal rituals such as sweat lodges for individuals in need of healing and relief. Mr. Morris has acted in seven movies and four Native-themed plays. He is a Southern Straight Dancer and has traveled to 16 foreign countries with Native dance troupes.
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Eddie Morrison Cherokee Nation
Eddie Morrison is a contemporary sculptor who works with wood and stone. Born in 1946, he was raised in Tahlequah by his Cherokee grandmother. Mr. Morrison attended Northeastern State University in Tahlequah and graduated from the Institute of American Indian Arts in Santa Fe, New Mexico, with a degree in three-dimensional arts. Other formal studies included classes at the Art Student League of Denver. He was profoundly influenced by the great Apache artist Allan Houser, a guest lecturer and teacher at the Art Student League of Denver. Houser encouraged Mr. Morrison to continue his studies on a more advanced level at the Institute of American Indian Arts in Santa Fe. Upon graduation, Mr. Morrison received the faculty department award for “outstanding student in three-dimensional art.” Mr. Morrison realized that carving was his artistic calling by discovering his connection to wood. His subjects often include bears, eagles and buffaloes. He also carves human figures in traditional presentations, such as wearing wolfskin capes, blankets or feathers. Mr. Morrison strives to produce work representing Native American people with pride and dignity.
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Nancy Nullake
Sac and Fox Nation Nancy Nullake is one of the few remaining full-blooded Sac and Fox members. Ms. Nullake is known as a motivator and supporter of younger generations. She is an active member of Sac and Fox tribal elder activities. Ms. Nullake received her education from the University of Central Oklahoma. She spent her career with the KM Corporation, from which she retired. She was also employed with the Sac and Fox Nation for 20 years. Ms. Nullake prides herself on her family and enjoys traveling. She is a faithful fan of the Thunder Basketball team.
Donna Pewo
Comanche Nation Rev. Donna Pewo, a member of the Comanche Nation, currently serves as the director of connectional ministries at the Oklahoma Indian Missionary Conference. She also serves as the General Board of Global Ministries mission project director in Clinton. Other work in Clinton includes serving as a local pastor. Rev. Pewo focuses on empowering youth by building bridges through community education. In her free time, Rev. Pewo mentors students by providing kind words, connections and resources for their personal and spiritual journey advancements. She also organizes and volunteers for mission trips that provide school kits and basic needs items to reservations across North and South Dakota.
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Phyllis Prickett Kaw Nation
Phyllis Prickett was deeply impacted by her father who instilled in his children the importance of education. Mrs. Prickett carried that inspiration forward and has taught in the public school system for 35 years. Mrs. Prickett has received “teacher of the year” accolades due to her compassionate approach to her students. She is diligent about learning the students’ names at her school each year and always ensures each student feels love and support. Mrs. Prickett currently teaches physical education. When her students were not in school during the COVID-19 pandemic, Mrs. Prickett worked hard to ensure her students stayed active and connected. Mrs. Prickett is known for consistently placing others first and enjoys spending her free time visiting the elderly.
Everett Rhoades Kiowa Tribe
Dr. Everett Rhoades has been a strong advocate for the health care needs of Native Americans for many years. Dr. Rhoades is a retired physician and serves as professor emeritus of medicine at the University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center. He also serves as a senior consultant to the University’s Center for American Indian Health Research. In 1971, Dr. Rhoades created the Association of American Indian Physicians (AAIP). The organization began with 15 physicians and now has more than 360 members. Dr. Rhoades was among 26 | 2022 AARP Oklahoma
the first doctors to volunteer at the Oklahoma City Indian Clinic when it opened in 1974. However, many know him best as the first Native American director of the Indian Health Service (IHS), a position he held from 1982-1993. Dr. Rhoades served on the Oklahoma City Indian Clinic board for many years, along with the IHS unit at Lawton. He volunteers with several Native American organizations and initiatives, including the AAIP, the Oklahoma City Indian Clinic and the Southwest Intertribal Health Board. Dr. Rhoades also volunteers with the Strong Heart Study, a Native American cardiovascular disease study underway at the University of Oklahoma. In February, the American Medical Association honored him with the Jack B. McConnell, MD Award for Excellence in Volunteerism.
Bobby Saunkeah Kiowa Tribe
Bobby Saunkeah graduated from the University of Oklahoma College of Nursing in 1978 and received a master’s degree in health care ethics from Creighton University in 2014. Mr. Saunkeah has a long history in clinical research, primarily in cardiac pacing and electrophysiology. He has worked at the Chickasaw Nation Department of Health for 20 years in several capacities, including certified diabetes educator, diabetes program manager and director of the Chickasaw Nation Special Diabetes Program for Indians grants. Mr. Saunkeah currently serves as the Chickasaw Nation Department of Health Research and Population Health section manager.
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Mr. Saunkeah has also served on the Chickasaw Nation Institutional Review Board (IRB) for many years and is presently IRB Chair and Human Research Subjects Protections administrator. He is a tribal representative on the national Indian Health Service IRB, a Certified IRB Professional (CIP) and an adjunct faculty member for the Department of Health Promotion Sciences at the University of Oklahoma College of Public Health. In 2016, Mr. Saunkeah was appointed to serve a two-year term as the Oklahoma area delegate to the National Institute of Health Tribal Advisory Committee for Research. His primary interests are promoting tribal public health, creating tribal research infrastructure, strengthening research protections in tribal communities and exploring the application of research and public health ethics principles within the context of tribal culture and sovereignty. Mr. Saunkeah is an ordained deacon in the Episcopal Church.
Franklin (Frankie) Still
United Keetoowah Band of Cherokee Indians Franklin (Frankie) Still is a Flint District tribal representative for the United Keetoowah Band of Cherokee Indians. Mr. Still is a hands-on representative who strives to help his constituents. He is a staunch advocate for the United Keetoowah Band of Cherokee Indian Tribe members and the many services provided by the tribe. Mr. Still is active in environmental and historical preservation, supporting tribal efforts to preserve its history, culture and environment. His service to tribal members assists them in reaching personal goals, as 28 | 2022 AARP Oklahoma
well as providing necessities such as ricks of wood donated through the Historic Preservation and Environmental department’s conservation agency partnerships. Mr. Still’s support helps elders and those in need to maintain comfortable living spaces. His work with these programs not only provides resources to tribal members, but also assists in preserving and protecting natural resources the tribe holds sacred. Mr. Still is always available to help and works tirelessly to support others, sometimes paying for bills and food out of his own pocket. Mr. Still also serves as a district court advocate for families.
Judith “Judy” Mary Tiger Osage Nation
Judith “Judy” Mary Tiger belongs to the Grayhorse district of the Osage Nation. Her Osage name is MahZeh Sah-Ke (Strong Metal), and she is of the Eagle Clan. Mrs. Tiger attended Chilocco Indian School. She was the head clarinet player for the band and served as president of the Wampum Indian Club. She was also the Chilocco Indian School princess. She met the love of her life, the late Jim Tiger, while attending Chilocco Indian School. Mrs. Tiger and her family settled in Fairfax and began their lives on the ranch, which began her lifelong love for rodeo. She is known in the Grayhorse community for her kindness and giving spirit. Mrs. Tiger has served as a committee cook for the Grayhorse In-Lon-Schka committee. Mrs. Tiger is also an accomplished seamstress and enjoys ribbon work.
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Anne Townsend-Edwards Muscogee Nation
Anne Townsend-Edwards embodies the spirit of giving and support and is a role model for Muscogee Nation citizens. When the COVID-19 pandemic began, Ms. Townsend-Edwards created a social media group to help preserve the Muscogee language and teach other citizens to speak the language and create connections. Students attended virtual classes from as far away as the United Kingdom. One of her students said that Ms. Townsend-Edwards brought the Muscogee culture to them, which was important because they were not raised around the culture. Ms. Townsend-Edwards has worked for the Muscogee Nation for 24 years. She served as the tribe’s health system patient advocate and created the first customer service program, which is still in use today. This effort earned an award from the Indian Health Service in 2013. Ms. TownsendEdwards currently serves as a Muscogee Nation tribal liaison for people living off the reservation. She recently created a social media group page to engage citizens through live videos and information regarding the tribe. Ms. Townsend-Edwards is an advocate for domestic violence survivors and has worked in the Tulsa domestic violence shelter to help others and support their needs. She is also a certified foster parent and helps recruit other foster parents.
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Darla Tsotaddle
Citizen Potawatomi Nation Darla Tsotaddle is proud to be a full-blooded Native American with Kiowa, Apache and Potawatomi ancestry. A fifth-generation Kiowa, Ms. Tsotaddle was born in Carnegie and has spent her entire life in Oklahoma. Ms. Tsotaddle has embraced a servant leader role throughout her life and professional career. She currently serves as office operations manager for AtLink Services and its sister company, Specialty Telecommunications Services. For the last 11 years, Ms. Tsotaddle has been responsible for helping keep a 100+ person office running efficiently while facilitating a family-oriented work environment. Ms. Tsotaddle previously had a distinguished career in elder care at various long-term care organizations. Utilizing the thoughtful and caring nature that has been a hallmark of her life, Ms. Tsotaddle was able to bring rays of light to many Native American elders. Her dedication to others was also evidenced through a 25-year career in public service with the Shawnee Police Department. Passion for Native American culture remains a vital part of Ms. Tsotaddle’s life. She embraces activities that help preserve historical and ceremonial traditions and is a constant fixture at powwows, dances and other cultural events.
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Vanessa Vance
Wichita and Affiliated Tribes Vanessa Vance has worked in Indian Country throughout her life, serving as secretary, vice president, and most recently as treasurer of the Wichita and Affiliated Tribes. Ms. Vance has also served as tribal administrator for the Cheyenne and Arapaho Tribes and was recently hired as the director of grants and research. Other experience includes working for tribal governments in various capacities, including grant writing, energy, agriculture and tribal real estate issues.
Joyce Vinyard
Chickasaw Nation Joyce Vinyard is well-known for her artistic skill in traditional Native American attire. She has been making shawls since the 1960s. By 1980, Ms. Vinyard mastered the intricate art of machine embroidery. She began making dresses in the early 1990s, and dance competition clothes became her forte. The dresses are worn by Native American women competing in the cloth dress category at tribal dances throughout the U.S. Ms. Vinyard has also advanced to be a skilled virtuoso shawl maker. Her applique shawls and blankets are decorated with vividly colored flowers that are artfully arranged to enhance the wearer’s aura. She won first place for a shawl at the American Indian Expo in Anadarko and first place at the Red Earth Festival. Ms. Vinyard also won awards for her work from the Southwestern Association for Indian Arts 78th Annual Santa Fe Indian Market.
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Curtis Wakolee
Sac and Fox Nation Curtis (Dagwood) Wakolee is a full-blood member of the Sac and Fox Nation. Mr. Wakolee made his home in California. He worked in business management and ultimately retired from Exxon Corporation. His pastime after retirement was traveling, and his vacations took him to Hawaii, the Virgin Islands, and a European cruise. Mr. Wakolee’s travels also brought him back home to Shawnee, where he spends time with his grandchildren and family. Mr. Wakolee serves as an officer with the Sac and Fox Color Guard, a tribute to his time in the U.S. Army, where he served as a medic. He is also an active member of the tribal elders and enjoys participating in Sac and Fox Nation programs and events.
Alvin Wilson
Absentee Shawnee Tribe After graduating from Earlsboro high school in 1977, Alvin Wilson joined the U.S. Army. Mr. Wilson served a two-year tour as an armored crewman at Fulda, Germany. The remainder of his time was served at Fort Riley, Kansas. After completing military service in 1981, Mr. Wilson moved back to Oklahoma and earned an associate degree in automotive services from Oklahoma State Technical School. He then served as an automotive instructor at Moore Norman Vocational Technical Center for 11 years. Mr. WIlson also worked as a Tinker Air Force Base production controller and retired after 20 years of service.
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Mr. Wilson served three terms as chairman for the Kickapoo Chapter Native American Church of Oklahoma, where he currently serves in an advisory role. He continues to support traditional Absentee Shawnee Tribal practices as an elder and helper. Mr. Wilson also supports his local Little Axe community by regularly attending sporting events.
Jennifer Wilson Caddo Nation
Jennifer Wilson is a citizen of Caddo Nation and of Citizen Potawatomi Nation descent. Her given Native American name is “Sah-cooh-titi,” or Little Sun. Mrs. Wilson is a lifelong participant in tribal ceremonial and social functions and is passionate about passing these lessons to Native youth. She currently serves as a member of the Caddo Nation Council. Mrs. Wilson’s professional career was in education. She taught one year at the Concho Boarding School and 25 years with Norman Public Schools. Mrs. Wilson has volunteered many years in her community, including service as a lay leader for the Norman First American United Methodist Church. She also volunteers with the University of Oklahoma Native American Alumni Association and is the vice president of the Auntie Project, which helps Native American children in need. As the co-founder of the Metro Caddo Cultural Club, Mrs. Wilson recognized the loss of ceremonial dances. She was instrumental in creating the successful annual Caddo Festival, which features traditional Caddo songs, dances, language, history and art for the public. Mrs. Wilson
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also founded weekly Caddo language classes and traditional songs, dances, games and activities for Caddo children. She also served the Native American Church by setting up camps, cooking and serving traditional foods to participants. Mrs. Wilson earned a Bachelor of Arts and counselor’s certificate from the University of Oklahoma. She played on the first University of Oklahoma women’s basketball team, leading a path for others to follow. As a Norman Parks commissioner, Mrs. Wilson organized the city’s first girls’ softball league.
Charlene Wright Caddo Nation
Charlene Wright is well-known as a knowledgeable reference on Caddo history, cultural information, traditional clothing and language. She prepares traditional items and teaches the Caddo language and how to make Caddo regalia. Mrs. Wright is also a strong supporter of the Caddo Cultural Club. She works selflessly and humbly to continue the traditions of the Caddo people with pride and love for her culture.
Past Recipients ABSENTEE SHAWNEE TRIBE
Ms. Johnnie Mae Bettelyoun Ms. Mary Birdtail Mr. George Blanchard Ms. Wynona Coon Mrs. Charlene EdwardsWhittington Mr. Walter L. Larney Ms. Redena Blanchard Miller Mrs. Twila Parker Ms. Esteline Sloan Schulenberg Ms. Jenifer Sloan Mr. Larry Spybuck Mr. Melpherd Switch Ms. Dara Thorpe Ms. Meredith Wahpekeche Ms. Pauline White Wahpepah Ms. Reta Marie Wilson-Harjo
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
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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. Margaret Francis-Rico 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 Mrs. Winnie Guess-Perdue Mr. James Franklin Hail Mr. Dennis “Jay” Hannah Ms. Dianne Barker Harrold
Mr. Bill Horton Rev. John Ketcher Pr. D.J. McCarter Ms. Carolyn McClellan Mrs. Doris “Coke” Lane Meyer Ms. Rebecca “Becky” Meyer Mrs. Marcella Morton Mr. Ira M. Phillips Ms. Frances Ramsey Mr. Jimmy L. Reeder Ms. Lucinda Robbins Ms. Fan Robinson Mr. Calvin Rock Mr. Mark Rogers Dr. Mary "Katie" Sigler Mr. Crosslin Fields Smith Mr. Henry Smoke Mr. Curtis Snell Mr. Charlie Soap Mr. Chris 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 Mr. 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 Ms. Gail Williams Mr. Richard Dean Williams Mr. Robert Wilson
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
CHICKASAW NATION
Mr. Jack Austin Sr. Mrs. Carole Ayers 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 Mrs. Rosa Taylor Gilmore Mr. Ernest Hooser Ms. Nellie Hunter Mr. Sylvester Moore Ms. Mona Lea Perry Mr. Walter Phelps Ms. Norma Price Mrs. Gloria Sirmans Ms. Linda Skinner Mr. Leo Smallwood Ms. Marcie Smith Mr. Claude Sumner Ms. Harriet Tehauno Ms. Betty War Ms. Linda Watson Chaplain Olin Williams
Mr. James “Jim” Anderson Mr. John Edwin Anderson Mr. William “Bill” Bomboy Mrs. Jeraldine “Jerry” Brown Mr. Kennedy Brown Ms. Pauline Carpenter-Brown Mr. Robert Larkin Cole 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
CHOCTAW NATION
Rev. Donald Eugene “Gene” Wilson Ms. Evangeline Wilson Ms. Pauline "Paula" Wilson-Carney Mrs. Robin Woodley Ms. Loyce Wright
CITIZEN POTAWATOMI NATION
Mr. David Barrett Chairman John “Rocky” Barrett Ms. Loretta Barrett-Oden Vice Chairwoman Linda Capps Mr. Leon Cross Ms. Mary Deathrage Ms. Beverly Hughes Mr. Alan Kelly Mr. Joe Miller Mr. William Nadean Ms. Mary Ann Powell Ms. Annamaria Simpson Mrs. Carmelita Skeeter Mr. Doyle Morton Thompson Ms. Margaret Zientek Mr. Tim Zientek
COMANCHE NATION
Mr. George Briscoe II Chairman Wallace Coffey Mr. Kenneth Coosewoon Mrs. Rita Coosewoon Mr. Conrad Galey Ms. Barbara Goodin Ms. LaDonna Harris Mr. Leon Hawzipta Jr. Mr. Barthell Little Chief Ms. Martha “Adele” Mihesuah Ms. Josephine Myers-Wapp Ms. Juanita Pahdopony Dr. Cornel Pewewardy
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Ms. Cornelia Quoetone-Karty Mr. Bill Shoemate Mr. Jack Shoemate Ms. Sherry Smith Mr. Milton Sovo Mrs. Anna Wockmetooah Tahmahkera Mr. Thurman Ray Tahsuda Mrs. Deloris R. Twohatchet Dr. Robbie Wahnee Mr. Joe Wahnee Jr. Dr. Linda Sue Warner Rev. Videll Yackeschi
Mr. Charles Enyart Ms. Virginia Fanning Ms. Beverly Sue Hauser Rendel Mrs. Norma Kraus Chief Glenna Wallace
DELAWARE NATION
FORT SILL APACHE TRIBE
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 Councilman Larry “Joe” Brooks Mr. Raymond M. Cline Chief Jerry Douglas 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 Ret. Chief Curtis Zunigha
EASTERN SHAWNEE TRIBE
Mr. John Daughtery Jr. Mr. Laurence “Larry” Dushane
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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
Mr. Curtis Kekahbah Mr. Guy Munroe Ms. Eva Munroe-Jones Commissioner Clark Pepper Mr. Luther Pepper Ms. Jacque Secondine-Hensley Chairwoman Wanda Stone Ms. Tahagena “Gena” Warren Chairwoman Lynn Williams
KIALEGEE TRIBAL TOWN
Mr. Leland Michael Darrow Mr. Lupe A. Gooday Sr. Mr. Benedict Kawaykla Mr. Michael Pratt Kawaykla
Ms. Jennie Anderson-Lillard Ms. Leola Barnett Ms. June Fixico Mekko Mary Givens Rev. Bill Hobia Ms. Brenda Leftwich Ms. Susie Martinez Mekko Lowell Wesley
IOWA TRIBE
KICKAPOO 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 Ret. Councilwoman Renee Lincoln 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
Sgt. Roy Ball Mr. Kennis Bellmard Ms. Mary Butler Mr. James Pepper Henry Mr. Charles “Sonny” Holloway
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
Ms. Sharron Ahtone-Harjo 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. Darlene Hovakah-Wolf Mr. Gary Kodaseet
Ms. Cornelia “Pat” Kopepassah Hon. Philip LuJan Dr. N. Scott Momaday Rep. Anita Onco-Johnson Mr. Dixon Palmer Mr. Lyndreth “Tugger” Palmer Ms. Georgette “G.G.” PalmerSmith Mr. Burt Patadal Mr. John Pinezaddleby 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. 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 Chief Bill Fife Ms. Leona Fish Principal Chief James Floyd Mrs. Margaret Floyd Ret. Tsgt. Jess “Mick” Freeman Jr. Ms. Sandra "Sandi" Golden Ms. Glenda Graham-Byrd Ms. Pauline Haney Mr. Eugene Harjo Mrs. Joy Harjo-Sapulpa Justice Leah Harjo-Ware Mr. Eugene Herrod Ms. Nancy John Mr. Keeper Johnson Ms. Matilda King Mrs. Candy Fish Klumpp Ms. Rebecca Lindsey Mrs. Mona "KoKo" Lowe Ms. Rosalee “Rose” Marshall Mr. William Moore Ms. Susie “Sue” Morgan Mr. Edward F. Mouss Mr. Scott Roberts Mrs. DeLois Louise Dunzy Roulston Dr. Lahoma Schultz Mrs. Augusta “Gus” Smith Justice George Thompson Mr. George Phillp Tiger Mr. Jon Mark Tiger Ms. Mickey White Mr. Richard Ray Whitman Mr. Benjamin Yahola Former Speaker Thomas Leroy Yahola
OSAGE NATION
Mr. Darrell Boulanger Ms. Jerri Jean Branstetter Ms. Anita Fields Ms. Mary Gray-Bighorse Mr. Charles Eugene “Chuck” Hessert Ms. Denise Keene 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. Franklin McKinley Mr. Archie Mason Cmdr. James Norris Dr. Steven Pratt Councilwoman Kathryn Red Corn Mr. Charles Harold RedCorn Ms. Nicki Revard-Lorenzo 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. Candy Thomas Mr. John Williams Ms. Julia Wilson Ms. Rosemary Wood
OTOE-MISSOURIA TRIBE
Ms. Joan Aitson Mr. Abe Sylvester Alley Attorney General Susan Arkeketa Ms. Kim Arkeketa-McHenry Ms. Annette Arkeketa-Rendon
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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 Mr. Alvin Moore Sr. Mr. Baptiste Shunatona Ms. Virginia Thomas Ms. Billie Ann Tohee Mr. Randall Whitehorn Mrs. Barbara Childs Walton Ms. Dorcas Kent Williams
Ms. Alice Roberta HedgesLindsley
OTTAWA TRIBE
QUAPAW NATION
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 Mrs. Deb Echo-Hawk Mr. John E. Echo-Hawk Mr. Marshall R. Gover Mrs. Dawna “Riding In” Hare 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. Carolyn Garren-Ritchey
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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 Mr. Jim Sherron Ms. Barbara Warner Ms. Evona “Eve” Williams Ms. Maxine WilliamsThompson
Chief John Berrey Mr. Lloyd Buffalo Mrs. Charlene Leading Fox Button Ms. JoKay Dowell Mr. Henry McNeer Ellick Ms. Grace Goodeagle Mr. Jim Greenfeather Ms. Barbara Kyser-Collier 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 Ret. MGySgt. Delphine Hamilton 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 Mrs. Mary Ann Emarthle Ms. Nancy Fixico Ms. Anna Givens Mr. Enoch Kelly Haney Mr. Jerry Haney Mrs. Terri Denise Haney Ms. Fannie Harjo Councilman Jeffery Harjo Mrs. Darlene Henneha Councilman Charlie Hill Chief Lewis Johnson Ms. Priscilla Ann Palmer Johnson Ms. Marilyn Jumper Mrs. June Lee Mrs. Jane McGiesey Ms. Joanna Palmer-Morris Ms. Greta Haney Ruminer Sgt. Danny Tiger Mrs. Juanita Nokomis TigerScott Ms. Dena Tiger-Kloehr Ms. Shirley Walker Ms. Susie Walker-Harjo 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 Chairman 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. Sandra Dacon-Medrano Mrs. Nellie Fixico Ms. Melinda Ann Gibson Mr. Wilbert Lowe Ms.Elsie Mae Martin Ms. VaRene Martin Mrs. Elizabeth Trickey
TONKAWA TRIBE
Ms. Barbara Allen Mr. Don Patterson Mr. Jim Schreen
UNITED KEETOOWAH BAND OF CHEROKEE INDIANS Ms. Ernestine Berry Chief Joe Bunch 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
Dr. John and Tewanna Edwards Leadership Award Recipients
WICHITA & AFFILIATED TRIBES
Tewanna Edwards Chickasaw Nation
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 Ms. Betty Jo Rowland-Wolfe Mr. Myles Stephenson Sr. Mr. Franklin Dale Swift Mrs. Rochelle Swift Ms. Mary Louise Stevenson Tselee Ms. Gladys Walker Mr. Stratford Williams
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
2021
2019
Wes Studi Cherokee Nation
2018
Dr. Judy Goforth Parker Chickasaw Nation
2017
Dr. Henrietta Mann Cheyenne and Arapaho Tribesof Oklahoma
2016
Rev. Dr. David Wilson Choctaw Nation
2015
Dr. Tom Anderson Cherokee Nation
2014
Chief Gregory Pyle Choctaw Nation
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About AARP Oklahoma Native American Elder Honors The AARP Oklahoma Native American 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 Native American 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 Oklahoma 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.
AARP Oklahoma State Office Sean Voskuhl State Director
AARP Oklahoma Executive Council Jim Randall State President
Melanie Henry Associate State Director, Communications & Outreach
Modina Allen
Melba Knight Senior Operations Associate
Pam Kiser
Joy McGill Associate State Director, Outreach
Tom Anderson Ethel Broiles Kendra Orcutt Sabra Tucker
Chad Mullen Associate State Director, Advocacy Mashell Sourjohn Associate State Director, Outreach
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126 N. Bryant Ave. Edmond, OK 73034 866-295-7277 aarp.org/ok aarp.org/nativeorigins facebook.com/AARPOK Twitter: @AARPOklahoma
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