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We asked tribal leaders to discuss their current top priorities, how innovation is guiding decisions across their gaming and hospitality portfolios, and how they approach leadership development to ensure long-term stability and growth. Here is what Governor Bill Anoatubby had to say…
Bill Anoatubby, Governor
Chickasaw Nation
Ada Gaming Center; Artesian Casino & Hotel; Black Gold Casino; Border Casino; Chisholm Trail Casino; Gold Mountain Casino; Goldsby Gaming Center; Jet Stream Casino; Lakecrest Casino & Hotel; Madill Gaming; MegaStar Casino; Newcastle Casino; The Riverstar Casino; Riverwind Casino; Saltcreek Casino; Texoma Casino; Tishomingo Tobacco Gaming; Treasure Valley Casino & Hotel; Washita Casino; West Bay Casino & Resort; WinStar World Casino and Resort; and 9 Chickasaw Travel Stops in Oklahoma
Riverwind.com / Winstar.com / Chickasaw.net
PRIORITIES: The mission of the Chickasaw Nation that unifies all our moving parts into a cohesive whole is “to enhance the overall quality of life of the Chickasaw people.” Since the purchase of our first business in 1972 and thoughtful investment into a diverse portfolio of businesses in the decades since, the Chickasaw Nation now provides the majority of funding for our nearly 400 programs and services that directly benefit the Chickasaw people, as well as the communities around us. Today, the Chickasaw Nation operates more than 100 successful businesses in gaming, hospitality, tourism, banking, manufacturing, media and other industries, and directly employs more than 14,500 workers.
INNOVATION: Our gaming facilities are both entertainment and hospitality venues. To most efficiently serve our patrons, we constantly implement new technology and innovations. One of our newest properties, OKANA Resort & Indoor Waterpark, is a unique family destination in Oklahoma City’s Horizons District near the First Americans Museum (FAM) and Exhibit C Gallery. OKANA is a world-class facility built alongside the Oklahoma River. The massive project continues the Chickasaw Nation’s commitment to fulfill its mission, as well as create opportunities for tourism growth, cultural preservation, and economic development in Oklahoma. It took the innovation, dedication, and cooperation of many people to make the vision of OKANA a reality, including Oklahoma City and state officials, and many others. Together, we transformed the site from an old oil field to an entertainment and cultural destination that will complement and support the success of the First Americans Museum and further showcase the rich cultures and traditions of Oklahoma tribes.
LEADERSHIP DEVELOPMENT: The Chickasaw Nation has multiple avenues of training and career development for our employees. We have worked hard to develop a culture within our workforce that encourages servant leadership and respect, and rewards selflessness, longevity, and dedication to making a difference in the lives of those we serve. We value our employees and offer opportunities for growth and advancement. We have training classes available to all employees, both online and in-person, as well as a core leadership program that helps new leaders learn the systems they will need in their roles. The Chickasaw Leadership Academy helps us develop valuable skills in prospective leaders. We believe in preparing our employees both technically and practically.