ADA, Okla. — Chickasaw Nation Governor Bill Anoatubby inducted five Chickasaws into the Chickasaw Hall of Fame April 16. Inductees include a citizen important to the preservation of the Chickasaw language, a trailblazing aviator for the United States Marine Corps, an artist and advocate, an athlete dedicated to cultural preservation and an Air Force veteran […]

Geneva Holman has been integral in the preservation of the Chickasaw language. She was born in the Steedman community of Pontotoc County, Oklahoma. Her father Jeff Alexander and stepmother Elsie Frazier Alexander raised her, after her mother Mary Jane Shields Alexander passed away.

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Col. Jessica Owens, USMC (Ret.), is a trailblazing aviator and leader whose 24-year career is defined by historic firsts and unwavering dedication to the United States. After commissioning in 1999 and earning her wings as a Naval Aviator in 2002, Col. Owens became the fifth woman in United States Marine Corps history to fly the AH-1W Super Cobra and subsequently the first to reach the rank of Colonel.

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In addition to his notable athletic career, Thompson is a devoted member of the Chickasaw Language Committee. As an original member, he has been instrumental in establishing methods for preserving Chickasaw vocabulary. He has co-authored several books and served in numerous workshops in Oklahoma and the historic Chickasaw Homeland. Thompson is featured on Chickasaw.TV, Chickasaw Nation Culture and Humanities YouTube channel and the Chickasaw Times. He was highlighted in the 2026 Chickasaw calendar celebrating Chickasaw speakers.

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Lt. Col. (Ret.) Deanna Tuley was a highly decorated Air Force veteran, an accomplished attorney and a dedicated leader within the American Red Cross. During her remarkable life, she continued a deep connection to her Chickasaw heritage.