We asked tribal leaders to discuss their tribes’ top priorities and how gaming supports those objectives; the role innovation plays in shaping decisions across their gaming and hospitality portfolios; and their approaches to leadership development to foster long-term stability and growth. Here is what Chickasaw Nation Governor Chris Anoatubby had to say…
Chris Anoatubby, Governor
Chickasaw Nation
Ada Gaming Center; Black Gold Casino; Border Casino; Chickasaw Travel Stop Ada West; Chickasaw Travel Stop Davis Gaming; Chickasaw Travel Stop Thackerville; Chisholm Trail Casino; Gold Mountain Casino; Goldsby Gaming Center; Lakecrest Casino and Hotel; Madill Gaming Center; MegaStar Casino; Newcastle Casino; Newcastle Travel Gaming; Riverstar Casino; Riverwind Casino; SaltCreek Casino; Texoma Casino; The Artesian Casino; Tishomingo Gaming; Treasure Valley Casino; Washita Casino; Jet Stream Casino; West Bay Casino & Resort; WinStar World Casino and Resort – OK
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PRIORITIES: The mission of the Chickasaw Nation that unifies all of 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 nearly 15,000 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 into 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.
