Kenneth Lance
Chickasaw Entertainer 
 
Kenneth Lance, born March 4, 1928, in Earlsboro, Oklahoma, traveled the world as a trick roper, rodeo promoter, and all-around cowboy. 

Ken started his career early, going from high school to the rodeo circuit as a trick roping performer and competitor in calf and team roping events. He has crisscrossed the nation since 1945 as one of the most visible participants in rodeo.

In 1955 he opened the Ken Lance Sports Arena near Ada, Oklahoma and hosted rodeos for over 30 years. 

His dedication to rodeo entertainment helped the Ada rodeo grow to be the third largest in the United States. 

Upon retiring, he went to work for the Chickasaw Nation, promoting its events, culture, and history. Ken continues to contribute to the Chickasaw people as a volunteer. 
 

Thomas Embert Phillips
Chickasaw Artist 
 
Thomas Embert Phillips began his art training at the Helen Lorenze Art School in Oklahoma City at the young age on nine.  From there, he went on to study at Phillips University, the Colorado Springs Fine Arts Center, and the Kansas City Art Institute. 

His career led him to be an illustrator for the American Hereford Association publication where he produced hundreds of paintings, drawings, and sketches that were featured on the cover and interior of national magazines. 

However, he dedicated his life to painting and sculpting to record and recreate the authentic history of Native Americans.

Thomas is an outstanding and highly acclaimed artist who has helped to educate the general public about the culture and history of the Chickasaw Nation. Through his highly detailed paintings, which have been sold in print around the world, he has chronicled such events as the Chickasaws' first meeting with Hernando DeSoto, the centennial celebration of the Chickasaw Historic Capitol Building, and many other important events. 

Robert M. Harris
Chickasaw Governor 
 
Governor Robert Maxwell Harris, the 21st governor of the Chickasaw Nation, labored unceasingly to promote the educational and overall progress of the Chickasaw people.

He signed the bill from the Chickasaw Tribal Legislature which authorized the construction of the Chickasaw Capitol Building. Governor Harris served as the tribe's chief executive from 1896 to 1898, and oversaw the Capitol building's construction.

Today the Chickasaw Capitol Building can still been seen at its original location in Tishomingo, Oklahoma.  It stands in tribute to Governor Harris' efforts for advancement of the Chickasaw people.