Billie Tohee, hailing from the Otoe-Missouria Tribe of Indians in Oklahoma and the Iowa Tribe of Oklahoma, brings a wealth of experience and dedication to her new role. First becoming a board member of NICOA at the 2018 Pechanga Conference, she quickly rose to prominence, being elected as the Chair of NICOA after two years of dedicated service, notably at the 2021 Reno conference. Notably within a couple of months of becoming a board member, Billie was promoted to board secretary, showcasing her dedication and passion.
In her recent endeavors, Billie has been actively engaged in assisting tribal members and elders, lending her support to address their concerns and grievances. Her advocacy extends beyond the reservation boundaries, ensuring that every member of the community feels welcomed and represented. Billie’s outreach to local officials underscores her passion for promoting cultural competency and fostering understanding in tribal interactions.
One of Billie’s primary objectives is to foster national collaborations among tribes, creating a network where resources can be shared and utilized effectively. Her vision for unity and cooperation aligns perfectly with our organization’s goals, and we are confident that under her leadership, NICOA will achieve new heights of success.
Billie’s commitment doesn’t stop there. She aims to reach out to as many Native elders as possible, conveying the positive values that NICOA stands for. Beginning with the state of New Mexico, she plans to extend her efforts to tribes across the nation. Furthermore, she is dedicated to soliciting additional funds to continue our endeavors of serving Native elders.
In her role, Billie is committed to working hand-in-hand with today’s Board Members, ensuring they are kept updated and actively participating in the organization. She prioritizes transparency between the Board and NICOA, fostering a culture of openness and collaboration.
