VERMILION, MN – Susan Waukon has assumed the role of CEO of the Bois Forte Development Corporation, marking a new chapter in her professional career. A member of the Ho-Chunk Nation and originally from Black River Falls, Wisconsin, Waukon has been actively engaging with staff and leadership across the organization since beginning her tenure.
In recent weeks, she has been getting acclimated to her office at Fortune Bay Resort Casino while also traveling to the Nett Lake Village to meet with members of the Reservation Tribal Government Management team and employees. Her onboarding has included a series of meetings designed to build relationships and support collaboration as she begins to guide the Development Corporation’s strategic direction.
Waukon was formally introduced to staff at a recent Bois Forte Business Development meeting by Acting Chair and District I Representative Shane Drift, who expressed his support and appreciation for her joining the team. Other members of the Tribal Council also offered welcoming remarks.
Waukon, in turn, thanked the Council and staff for their warm reception and offered a brief overview of her background. Raised by her grandparents, she credits them with shaping her community-centered approach to leadership. “I’ve met many people across Indian Country and am happy to be here,” she said. “My heart is 100 percent Native American. Anything I do, I do for people. It’s not about me – it’s about the people.”
Her career spans several leadership roles, including elected service as a legislator for the Ho-Chunk Nation, work in FEMA disaster recovery, and most recently, serving as Vice President of the Indian Land Tenure Foundation.
Reflecting on her decision to join the Bois Forte Band of Chippewa, Waukon said she was drawn to the Band’s ability to blend commercial enterprise with cultural integrity. Three core factors influenced her decision. First, was a strong alignment in values – specifically, Bois Forte’s clear commitment to economic sovereignty and cultural preservation. She was also encouraged by the Band’s diversified business portfolio, which includes ventures in gaming, golf, and cannabis – indications, she said, of forward-thinking leadership. Lastly, she recognized the potential to further expand these enterprises in ways that would deliver measurable community impact and support long-term growth for the Band.
Waukon plans to assess internal operations and meet with staff to identify key priorities within People & Culture, while also contributing to the organization’s strategic planning. She intends to develop clear goals for each area of the business; assign accountable leaders; establish 30-, 60-, and 90-day milestones; and regularly report progress to the Bois Forte Tribal Council through a bi-weekly dashboard.
“I’m honored to join Bois Forte, and I’m committed to growing our enterprises, strengthening our sovereignty, and building opportunities,” said Waukon. “I’m excited for the journey ahead – and to call this community home for many years.”
