About Kennedy Brown

Kennedy Brown

The Chickasaw Motor Inn in Sulphur, Okla., was purchased by the tribe in September 1972. This location housed tribal offices until the headquarters building opened in 1977.

Overton James is sworn in as Governor of the Chickasaw Nation at Seeley Chapel October 26, 1963. Area director of the Bureau of Indian Affairs Virgil Harrington administers the oath. Behind Gov. James, from left, is his mother Vinnie May Humes, her husband Rev. Jess Humes and Governor James’ wife, Evelyn.

Since 1974 when he was hired as one of three Chickasaw Nation employees, Mr. Brown has served in a number of roles, including a stint as lieutenant governor during Gov. Bill Anoatubby’s first term from 1987 to 1991.

Since then, he has worked as special assistant to the Governor, contributing his skills to a wide variety of projects.

Mr. Brown was a member of the Chickasaw cultural committee, forerunner of the Chickasaw Historical Society, and also served as one of the first board members of the society. He is also on the board of trustees of the Chickasaw Foundation, where he is a past president.

In his 30 years with the tribe, Mr. Brown has also witnessed major strides in health care, education, economic development, cultural awareness and other areas.

"The tribe has so many opportunities for our people that we never thought of back then," said Mr. Brown.

He gives much of the credit for the success the tribe has enjoyed to the vision of its leaders, Gov. Anoatubby and Gov. James.

Looking to the future, Mr. Brown has great confidence the tribe will continue to progress.

"I think the Nation can accomplish whatever it wants to accomplish," he said. "We’ve got the resources, we’ve got the technology, we have the vision to continue to accomplish great things."