Profiles of a Nation

129 Items

Abigail McNally

Meet a young woman who thinks science is "cool." And who knows her Chickasaw heritage is so important.
As an aerospace engineer at Northrop Grumman, Abigail McNally recognizes the profound possibilities in the stars.

Addison & Abbey Kliewer

Chickasaw sisters and accomplished American quarter horse riders
Sisters Addison and Abbey Kliewer have had a passion for showing American quarter horses since their earliest years growing up in Cordell, Oklahoma.

Dr. Amanda Cobb-Greetham

Renowned scholar and educator dedicated to the study of Native American culture
Dr. Amanda Cobb-Greetham is currently the Director of Native American Studies at the University of Oklahoma.

Ashlyn Colbert

Private Equity Senior Associate and proud Chickasaw, with deep cultural roots, wants to contribute to the success of her tribe
Proud Chickasaw Ashlyn Colbert hopes to continue the path of success learned from her family and inspired by her ancestors.

Beaulah Shavney

A brave military veteran, treasured elder and proud Chickasaw citizen
Shavney was a proud Chickasaw woman and an original member of the Women's Army Auxiliary during World War II.

Benjamin Espinosa

A proud military serviceman with a love for his country and his tribe
Military service runs in Benjamin Espinosa's blood.

Beth Perkins

A talent for capturing the importance and beauty of ordinary life
Beth Perkins is a photographer who aims to capture the importance and beauty of ordinary life.

Bill Kinney

A worldwide leader in auditing and accounting research
Dr. Kinney is a professor who has become a legend in the accounting industry.

Bill Lance

A distinguished career of service dedicated to enhancing the overall quality of life of the Chickasaw people
Bill Lance is the Secretary of State for the Chickasaw Nation and is eager to share his Chickasaw heritage with the world.

Bill Scott

His selfless sacrifice is a reflection of the unconquered and unconquerable Chickasaw warrior spirit
Born in 1933, Bill Scott is a proud Korean War veteran and member of the Chickasaw Nation.

Bill Wright

A proud Chickasaw citizen and protector of Chickasaw Country
Chickasaw citizen Bill Wright, a Durant native and longtime veteran of the National Park Service, brought his skills back to Oklahoma in 2015.

Bo Overton

Continuing his family's legacy of a love for basketball
As a native of Norman, Oklahoma, Bo Overton grew up loving the Oklahoma Sooners and attending football and basketball games.

Brad Scott

A proud military veteran with a distinguished entrepreneurial spirit
Chickasaw citizen Brad Scott's perseverant spirit goes deep down to his core.

Brandon Bailey

Major league baseball pitcher credits his Chickasaw heritage for his strength and uses his platform to advocate for First American issues
Brandon Bailey is a proud Chickasaw citizen, major league baseball pitcher and advocate for First American youth in sports.

Brandon Postoak D.O.

Emergency medicine doctor of osteopathic medicine inspired by his Chickasaw heritage
As an emergency medicine physician, Dr. Brandon Postoak hopes to inspire other First Americans to pursue careers in science and medicine.

Brenda Kingery

Award-winning contemporary artist dedicated to women in the indigenous arts
Brenda Kingery is a professional artist who uses the experiences she has had to influence the subject matter for her visual stories.

Brent Greenwood

Incorporating early tribal history with contemporary design elements to breathe life into his art
He is an award-winning contemporary artist of Chickasaw and Ponca heritage.

Brian Campbell

A corporate professional focused on the economic success of the Chickasaw Nation
Brian Campbell has a great deal of familiarity with both major corporate and management experience.

Bryce Petty

Award-winning professional football player
Meet Bryce Petty, Chickasaw citizen and former starting quarterback for the New York Jets.

Canoe-Kayak Team

A one-of-a-kind, Olympic-style canoe and kayak program for young Chickasaws
The Chickasaw RIVERSPORT Canoe/Kayak program is made up of a group of Chickasaw youth working toward becoming accomplished paddlers.

Carl Edwards

An accomplished businessman and devoted philanthropist
As a kid, Carl Edwards spent the summers with his grandfather in Texas, learning invaluable life skills from a genuine Amarillo cattleman.

Chad Burris

Changing the perception of Native Americans through film and cinema
Chad Burris is an attorney, entrepreneur, film producer and proud member of the Chickasaw Nation.

Chris Anoatubby

A dedication to the health and wellbeing of the Chickasaw people
Chris Anoatubby is the Lieutenant Governor of the Chickasaw Nation and oldest son of Chickasaw Nation Governor Bill Anoatubby.

Chris Carpenter

A spirit for success and innovation
Chickasaw citizen Chris Carpenter greatly admired his determined grandfather, a man who received his pilot’s license when he was just 16 years old.

Chris Kidd

Following in his family's footsteps, serving Oklahoma's 31st District
Continuing a family legacy of service to the great state of Oklahoma.

Christie Volkmer

"The Amazing Race" contestant descended from a long line of influential Chickasaws
Chickasaw citizen Christie Volkmer is a truly multitalented individual, exhibiting the typical Chickasaw characteristics of dedication.

Cody Greenwood

From college competition to giving back
After winning ECU's "Tiger Tank" pitch competition, freshman student Cody Greenwood is ready to keep making a difference.

Courtney Parchcorn

Channeling her emotions and connecting to her Chickasaw history and culture through art
As a testament to the deep love and respect she holds for her grandfather, Chickasaw artist Courtney Parchcorn created a special piece just for him.

Dallas Sealey

No Stranger to Hard Work and the Chickasaw Warrior Spirit
Lawton, Oklahoma native Dallas Sealey grew up with a football in his hands.

Daniel Worcester

Combining the ancient craft of metalworking with creative self-expression
Renowned Chickasaw bladesmith whose family heritage inspired him to become a part of the Native American art community.

Dawn Welch

Her Chickasaw heritage and family guidance taught her to dream big and work hard
As a native Oklahoman who quickly spread her wings after graduating high school, Dawn eventually found her way home and has never looked back.

Dr. Debra Vaughn

An adamant proponent of higher education, descended from a prominent Chickasaw family
Debra currently serves as the Director of Student Employment & Career Services at Oklahoma City Community College.

Dr. Don Gardner

Dr. Don Gardner has built a thriving business raising and caring for dairy heifers, and his Chickasaw heritage inspired him along the way
Dr. Don Gardner is a large animal veterinarian, successful dairy farmer and proud Chickasaw.

Donald Anderson

Stuntman. Model. Rancher. Army Veteran. So many stories for one life, but a single overarching theme: he's a proud Chickasaw.
From WWII veteran, oilman and rancher to stuntman, model and more, Chickasaw elder Donald Anderson has lived life to the fullest.

Dustin Mater

 A lifetime cultivating artistic talent to beautifully represent Chickasaw history and culture
Dustin has spent a lifetime cultivating his skills in graphic representation.

Elizabeth Rule

Noted scholar. Gifted writer. Granted researcher ... and proud Chickasaw.
Elizabeth Rule, Assistant Professor at American University, brings the indigenous experience to her students.

Ellen Brooker

Using her unique perspective as a Chickasaw to teach students about Native American culture
Ellen Brooker, a well-respected history and social studies instructor, has been teaching for over 28 years.

Eric Henson

He has committed his research to American Indian economic issues and development
Henson is an economic and financial analyst in oil and gas valuation with a strong interest in Native American economic development.

Eric Smith

A modern artisan paying homage to a truly ancient craft
Eric Smith is a Chickasaw bow maker who shared his talents with Hollywood in the Oscar-nominated film "The Revenant."

Ezekiel Walker

Life's work to tell genuine stories of his people
Ezekiel Walker now resides in Los Angeles and has worked as a television producer.

Ezra Johnson

Veteran of the Chickasaw Nation Martial Arts program
Chickasaw teenager Ezra Johnson counts himself lucky to have discovered the Chickasaw Nation Martial Arts Program when he was 12 years old.

M. Franklin Keel

Representing the interests of Native American people at the highest levels of government
Franklin Keel has honorably represented Native Americans with integrity and distinction at the highest levels of government.

Gary Sandefur

The first American Indian to be named Dean at the University of Wisconsin-Madison
In 2014, Oklahoma State University appointed Gary Sandefur Provost and Senior Vice President of Academic Affairs.

Gene Arpelar

Loving the country he served
Gene Arpelar is a Chickasaw veteran of the U.S. Navy whose time abroad deepened his love for America.

Gerald Brisco

A Chickasaw Warrior, Through-and-Through
Chickasaw Nation Hall of Fame member Gerald Brisco is a true Chickasaw warrior, through-and-through.

Dr. Glen D. Johnson, Jr.

Distinguished politician who has dedicated himself to quality education for Oklahomans
Johnson has had a long political career in Oklahoma City and strongly advocates for the importance of higher education.

Hailey Nutt

Using Ingredients from the Earth to Forge a Small Business
Chickasaw citizen Hailey Nutt has turned her passion for fresh produce and community involvement into a profitable business, Tribal Juice.

Harris Penner

Owner of the oldest business continually owned and operated by one family in Oklahoma
Penner is the great-great-grandson of the first Chickasaw Nation Governor, Cyrus Harris, and is also owner of Penner Angus Ranch in Oklahoma.

Heather Ahtone

Devoted to developing an interdisciplinary approach to studying Native American art
Heather Ahtone is the senior curator at the First Americans Museum in downtown Oklahoma City.

Jay & Mike Mitchell

Brothers and military servicemen who have honored their nation and their tribe
Jay & Mike Mitchell are two brothers who have honored their nation and their tribe through years of service in the Oklahoma National Guard.

Jay Keel

A deep commitment to the youth and families of the Chickasaw Nation
Jay Keel is the Secretary of Family Services for the Chickasaw Nation.

Jeannie Barbour

An incredible talent for bringing Chickasaw heritage and culture to life through her artwork
Barbour is a Chickasaw artist working as a professional artist, illustrator and writer.

Jeff Carpenter

Preserving his Chickasaw heritage through music as a member of band, Injunuity
Guitarist Jeff Carpenter is a Native American Music Award winning member of the folk/rock band, Injunuity.

Jennifer Barnes-Kerns

Chickasaw attorney and foreign service diplomat
Jennifer Barnes-Kerns is the Vice-Consul and the Political/Economic/Public Diplomacy Officer at the U.S. Consulate in Chiang Mai, Thailand.

Jeremy Tims

Setting a positive example for others as a college athlete and man of faith
Jeremy Tims counts athletics, his faith and his heritage as some of the most important things in his life.

Jeremy Wallace

Passing down Chickasaw cultural beliefs, customs and traditions to future generations
Wallace was a cultural instructor, musician, and performer at the Chickasaw Cultural Center and a member of the Chickasaw Dance Troupe.

Jerod Tate

Emmy Award-winning classical composer dedicated to American Indian classical composition
He is a classical composer and proud member of the Chickasaw nation dedicating his work to the development of American Indian classical composition.

Jerry Brown

A patriotic WWII veteran with deep Chickasaw roots
Jeraldine "Jerry" Brown said it was her Chickasaw family members who taught her how to love life.

Joe F. Moore

A computing pioneer for the petroleum industry
Mr. Moore applied his knowledge of computer modeling to the process of oil refining.

John Herrington

The first enrolled member of a Native American tribe to fly in space
Herrington has spent his life as a proud Chickasaw member serving as a U.S. Naval Aviator and an astronaut for NASA.

Johnson Wagner

He always knew his Chickasaw ancestry to be a positive aspect of his life
Johnson Wagner says he grew up with an athletic family and always knew his Chickasaw ancestry to be a positive aspect of his life.

Dr. Jonathan Trent

Award-winning Chickasaw physician and cancer researcher
Dr. Jonathan Trent is a board-certified oncologist.

Jordan Rainer

There’s no stopping country music’s Woman in Black, and she’s bringing her Chickasaw culture and Oklahoma grit along for the ride
Chickasaw singer-songwriter Jordan Rainer is full-steam-ahead after earning a Top 9 spot on NBC's "The Voice."

Joshua D. Hinson

A lifelong dedication to the perpetuation of the Chickasaw language
Joshua D. Hinson is a Chickasaw linguist, artist and cultural historian dedicated to the perpetuation of the Chickasaw language.

Joshua Tingle

Challenging his skills and imagination to think beyond the possible
Joshua Tingle is an intelligent and talented individual. He's a young Chickasaw, but is pushing the limits any way he can imagine.

Jud Little

A legacy of love for horses and the rodeo sports
Born with a love of horses, Chickasaw citizen Jud Little cultivated that passion his entire life.

Dr. Judy Goforth Parker

A Dynamic Chickasaw Woman committed to the health of the Chickasaw Nation
Dr. Judy Goforth Parker is the Chickasaw Nation Commissioner of Health Policy.

Dr. JudyLee Oliva

Celebrated writer known for bringing the story of Te Ata to life
She is a Chickasaw playwright known for her work titled "Te Ata," which was inspired by one of Oklahoma's most intriguing Native storytellers.

Katie Barrick

A passion for music and an alumna of the Chickasaw Summer Arts Academy
Hailing from Wynnewood, Oklahoma, Chickasaw violinist Katie Barrick is a senior at Oklahoma City University (OCU) majoring in Music Business.

Katie Callaway

A strong sense of appreciation for her Chickasaw heritage
Born in England and raised in Oklahoma, Chickasaw citizen Katie Callaway grew up with a strong sense of respect for her native heritage.

Kayla Dewitt

As the lead therapist for The Chickasaw Nation Empowered Living Clinic, Kayla Dewitt proudly says, "I am Chickasaw."
A Chickasaw citizen continuing a family legacy of service as the lead physical therapist for the Empowered Living Clinic.

Kaylea Arnett

The most decorated diver in ACC collegiate history
Kaylea Arnett is a Chickasaw citizen and All-American diver.

Kent Smith, Ph.D.

Dedicated to recruiting and training the next generation of Native Americans in scientists
Kent Smith founded the Native Explorers program as a way to recruit, train and educate the next generation of Native Americans in science & medicine.

Kevin Meeks

A public servant dedicated to helping Native communities
Long-time public servant Rear Admiral Kevin D. Meeks draws on his Chickasaw heritage to help Native communities.

Kevin Washburn

A lifetime of work advocating for the legal rights of Native American people
Chickasaw citizen Kevin Washburn has spent practically his entire adult life working on behalf of Native American nations.

Kortney Greenwood

A young published author of two books with plans for more in the works
The Murray State College student is a published author of two books and has plans for more in the works.

Kristen Dorsey

Handcrafted pieces that mix her Chickasaw visual traditions with style from the California coast
She uses the world around her to inspire her jewelry designs that are more than just an ornament to wear and reflect her Chickasaw cultural heritage.

Kristina Kirtley

Although she lives far from the Chickasaw Nation, her heritage is always close to her heart
Kirtley is no stranger to helping others and has spent over ten years teaching in NYC while remaining connected to her Chickasaw heritage.

Lana Duke

An athlete passionate about giving back to her state
Chickasaw medical student and former soccer player Lana Duke is interested in helping underserved rural communities in Oklahoma.

Linda Briggs

A dedicated public servant to her hometown, state and the Chickasaw people
Linda has served as the Pickens District Representative to the Chickasaw Tribal Legislature from 1994 to 2000, and then from 2001 to the present.

Linda English Weeks

A proud understanding of what the Chickasaw people have to offer
Linda is a former administrator of the Oklahoma governor's mansion and is a strong advocate for all the wonderful things her state has to offer.

Louden Johnson

A star football player and high school scholar
Louden Johnson is an accomplished Chickasaw student and athlete at Wayne High School in Oklahoma and is the nephew of Oklahoma State Rep. Lisa Billy.

Margaret Roach Wheeler

Award winning artistry using modern technology to help her with an ancient pastime
As an award-winning weaver, Margaret Wheeler balances fashion with art and her weavings have been features in museums across the United States.

Mason Cole

Inspired by his aunt Te Ata to educate others about the legacy and history of the Chickasaw Nation
Cole grew up understanding the importance of his Chickasaw family heritage and was inspired to educate others about the Chickasaw Nation history.

Major Matthew Neumeyer

A shining example of valor, courage and honor
From captain to major, Matthew Neumeyer is an exemplary display of the courage and fortitude found in the Chickasaws.

Maya Stewart

High-fashion designs inspired by the traditions and cultures of the Southeastern tribes
Maya Stewart is a Native American of Chickasaw, Creek and Choctaw descent and accomplished fashion designer.

Melissa Tartsah Morgan and Vicky Gold

Shining examples of the strength and determination of the Chickasaw people
Melissa Tartsah Morgan is a kidney transplant recipient and her mother, Vicky Gold, was her living donor.

Michael Cornelius

Keeping the tradition of Chickasaw music and craftsmanship alive
Cornelius is a family man who practices the art of flute making to connect to the heritage of his Chickasaw ancestors.

Mike Larsen

World-renowned artist whose works honor the culture and history of the Chickasaw Nation
Mike Larsen is a world-renowned Chickasaw painter and sculptor who has created Native American art for over 40 years.

Mike Weatherford

The first Native American to officiate in the NFL
What a long way Chickasaw citizen Mike Weatherford has come since he started his career as a middle school football referee in Edmond, Oklahoma.

Nathaniel Thomas

A Navy Veteran Following God's Path
After WWII, Chickasaw citizen Nathaniel Thomas answered God's call and became a minister.

Neal McCaleb

More than 50 years dedicated to Oklahoma and the Chickasaw people
Neal McCaleb is a proud member of the Chickasaw Nation that has served the national and Oklahoma state government.

Nevaeh Smith & Jariah Eyachabbe

The youngest stars of the Rosetta Stone Chickasaw language series
Fourteen-year-old Nevaeh & thirteen-year-old Jariah are two young Chickasaw citizens acting in the Rosetta Stone Chickasaw language lesson videos.

Paul C. Moore

Award-winning artists whose work is inspired by his rich tribal heritage
Chickasaw citizen and Oklahoma native Paul C. Moore is a multi-talented artist who continues to share his skills with his home state.

Paula Vanbuskirk

Dedicated to all the health and wellbeing of the nation's youngest citizens
Chickasaw citizen and pediatric dentist Paula Vanbuskirk loves waking up every morning to help brighten the smiles of children.

Peyton "Beans" Factor

Rising star in the golf world and accomplished student-athlete
Up-and-coming junior championship golfer Peyton "Beans" Factor is gifted on the course and in the classroom.

Rachel Scott

Embodiment of strength and perseverance through adversity
At just 12 years old, Rachel Scott was diagnosed with leukemia. As a survivor, she's now an advocate for children battling cancer.

Rebecca Hatcher Travis

Her work draws on the memories of Oklahoma landscapes and ancestors passed on
Rebecca Hatcher Travis is following the storytelling footsteps of her revered Chickasaw ancestors.

Rebecca Owens

Committed to Helping Fellow Veterans
Rebecca Owens is just one in a long line of venerable Chickasaw warrior women.

Robert Tuttle

Proud Chickasaw and trusted aide to former president Ronald Reagan
Though he has traveled all over the country and the world, Chickasaw citizen Robert Tuttle has deep roots right here in Oklahoma.

Rose Shields-Jefferson

Treasured elder and preserver of the Chickasaw language
Rose Shields-Jefferson was born in 1944 in Talihina, Oklahoma, and is the oldest of 13 children.

Ryanne Jordan

A passion for fashion and textile design
Ryanne Jordan has been cultivating her love of the arts since she began dancing at age 3, but her appreciation for fashion design came later.

Shay Buchanan

A strong Chickasaw spirit of strength and determination
Chickasaw citizen Shay Buchanan was the Oklahoma State Olympian of the Year at the 2007 Special Olympics state competition.

Steffani Cochran

The embodiment of what it means to be a dynamic Chickasaw woman
From Oklahoma to Washington D.C., Steffani Cochran embodies what it means to be a powerful Chickasaw woman.

Stephanie Moore

It's said a good teacher is like a candle. It consumes itself to light the way for others.
Introducing Stephanie Moore, professor at the University of New Mexico. Providing a better future for so many people.

Steve Paniagua

Racing Ahead of Challenges
Chickasaw citizen Steve Paniagua is the president of the Chickasaw Cycling Club.

Dr. Suzanne Van Cooten

A Chickasaw scientist working to bring Native Americans into the field of meteorology
Van Cooten is a highly esteemed hydrometeorologist at the National Severe Storms Lab in Norman, Oklahoma.

T.W. Shannon

A modern-day Chickasaw warrior and public servant
Tahrohon Wayne Shannon is the state of Oklahoma's first African-American Speaker of the House.

Tabitha Fair

Best-selling vocalist influenced by her Oklahoma roots
Tabitha Fair is a successful Chickasaw pop, country and gospel singer who has been flexing her vocal chords since the tender age of 11.

Dr. Teresa Shavney

Breaking down barriers as the first female surgeon in Oklahoma City
Displaying the notorious unconquerable Chickasaw spirit, Teresa Shavney is a barrier breaker in the field of medicine.

Teri Centner

A dedicated proponent for Native Americans in the sciences
Chickasaw citizen Teri Centner is using her lifelong love of science and math to help youth succeed in these advanced fields.

Tessa Stamile

Dreams to support the health of Native Americans in Oklahoma
Tessa Stamile is a woman who is proud of her Chickasaw heritage.

Tewanna Edwards

A career guided by compassion and dedicated to promoting peace, equality, access and inclusion
Tewanna Edwards is a Chickasaw peacemaker and health care administrator committed to peace, inclusion and diversity.

Thelma "Chincie" Ross

Military veteran devoted to furthering the progress of the Native American people
Ross dedicated much of her life to tribal involvement and furthering the progress of the Native American people.

Tim Cornelius

Bringing rivercane to life to create one-of-a-kind Native American flutes
Tim Cornelius is a family-oriented Chickasaw musician and craftsman.

Dr. Tina Cooper

A strong advocate for the progress of Chickasaw citizens in the areas of health and science
Dr. Cooper currently works as the medical director of the Sovereign Family Medical Center (under the Chickasaw Nation Division of Commerce).

Tobi Young

An accomplished attorney and public servant
Tobi Young has dedicated her career to the law and the pursuit of justice, serving as a United States Supreme Court Clerk.

Tohmi Carney

Embodying the Chickasaw warrior spirit
Wrestler Tohmi Carney hopes to follow his Chickasaw warrior spirit all the way to the Olympics.

Tom Love

Successful Chickasaw businessman with deep tribal roots
Love was the founder and CEO of the family-owned company Love's Travel Stops & Country Stores.

Towana Spivey

Known for his commitment to the preservation of Chickasaw history and culture
Spivey served as the director and curator of the Fort Sill National Historic Landmark Museum for almost 30 years.

Dr. Traci Morris

A dedication to utilizing new in technology that contribute to the progress of Native Americans
Dr. Morris is a business owner, teacher, scholar and proud member of the Chickasaw Nation.

Triana Browne-Hearrell

A cultural ambassador bringing Americans together
Named Miss Oklahoma USA 2019, Triana Browne-Hearrell is ready to continue her work as a cultural ambassador.

Troy Lawrence

"I don't like a problem that I can't solve. So, I feel that's a Chickasaw trait I would be able to embody ... And make a difference."
Chickasaw Troy Lawrence paves the way for advanced computer-based forensics at the Fort Worth Police. Catching criminals one digit at a time.

Valorie Walters

Dedicated to sharing the rich history and culture of the Chickasaw people with all
Valorie Walters is Under Secretary for the Chickasaw Nation Department of Culture and Humanities.

Whitney Anderson

This proud Chickasaw encourages human trafficking survivors to move forward on their path to freedom and restoration.
Whitney Anderson is the CEO of The Dragonfly Home, a nonprofit providing guidance and support for survivors of human trafficking.

Dr. Whitney Tolpinrud

An unwavering commitment to serve her fellow Chickasaw people
Chickasaw citizen Dr. Whitney Tolpinrud is a high achiever, to say the very least.

William G. Paul

Leading Chickasaw legal mind and devoted philanthropist
Honored by some of the most prominent people in the world, William Paul has a history rich in law and justice.

Wyas Parker

Accomplished Chickasaw pianist and guitarist
As an award-winning musician, Parker has been playing instruments since he can remember.

Zach Garcia

Attributes his strong work ethic and determination to his Chickasaw heritage
Zach is an award-winning musician, a honor student, and has been a part of the Chickasaw Nation's Chikasha Apihchi Ikbia youth leadership program.