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Inspirational

True competitors understand the discipline and hard work it takes to stand among the elite. And a Chahta tvshka knows there is no tougher opponent than self-doubt. They work tirelessly to sharpen their skills and silence the naysayers. These are the stories of what it means to show up and show out.

Stephanie Roberts in her classroom

Stephanie Roberts

Teacher

This month, thousands of students across the U.S. will grab their backpacks, load up their supplies and head out the door for the first day of the new school year. They will reunite with old friends and make new ones, maybe learn their way around a new building or look for what's new in their familiar one.

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Kelbie Kennedy stands in front of the Lincoln Memorial in Washington D.C. in a bright pink suit with Choctaw jewelry and accent pieces.

Kelbie Kennedy

Advocate

Even as a child, Kelbie Kennedy knew she was meant to serve others. Today, as the first ever National Tribal Affairs Advocate for FEMA, she is making a difference in the lives of disaster survivors in tribal communities across the U.S. Follow her journey from Buffalo Valley, Oklahoma to Washington, D.C.

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Roy Hunter

Roy Hunter

Veteran

Master Chief Petty Officer Roy Hunter embodies the very definition of servant leadership. From his 20-year career in the U.S. Navy to his 17-year career as a high school science teacher, he has given his life to the service of others. Hear his story.

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Sharon Dodson

Sharon Dodson

Business Owner

Sharon Dodson shows the value of caring for her community and her neighbors through her work for the Choctaw Nation. She also serves as a reminder of the importance of compassion and servant leadership as a small business owner.

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Claire Young

Claire Young

Scholar

Claire Green Young is proof that hard work and a little tenacity can take you anywhere. Hear her story.

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Gina South

Gina South

Protector

As an attorney for the Choctaw Nation, as well as a foster and adoptive parent, Gina South has dedicated her life to protecting children.

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Tara Thorpe

Tara Thorpe

Caregiver

Tara Thorpe overcame plenty of challenges in her childhood to become a successful nurse and business owner. Hear her inspirational story this month.

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Jake Trujillo smiles in front of a fire truck

Jake Trujillo

Firefighter

Anyone can be a hero. That’s Jake Trujillo’s personal creed. As a volunteer firefighter and Emergency Management Coordinator for the Choctaw Nation, Jake has had the opportunity to give back to his community. Hear his story.

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Shanna Douglas smiles in her graduation robes

Shanna Douglas

Graduate

Shanna Douglas, a tribal member and associate of the Choctaw Nation, shares her inspiring educational journey, highlighting the essential elements of time, dedication, and unwavering determination required to pursue one's dreams.

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