Cherokee Nation Principal Chief Baker Named Oklahoman of the Year by Oklahoma Magazine

In October, Chief Baker announced a partnership with Oklahoma State University to begin the first tribally affiliated medical school in North America.Photo by Josh New.

Published January 6, 2019

TAHLEQUAH — Cherokee Nation Principal Chief Bill John Baker has been named the Oklahoman of the Year by Oklahoma Magazine. Baker has been the principal chief of the Cherokee Nation, based in Tahlequah, Oklahoma since 2011.

Oklahoma Magazine lauded Chief Baker’s announcement of the Cherokee Nation forming a partnership with the Oklahoma State University Center for Health Sciences to begin the first tribally affiliated medical school in North America. The announcement was made in October 2018.

Looking to the future when the medical school graduates helping to reduce the disparity in health care available in Indian Country, Chief Baker told Oklahoma Magazine:

“I might sit on my front porch,” says Baker, his voice quavering at the thought, “and have a smile on my face when I see the disparity of health care eliminated. I’ll be complete.”

To read Oklahoma Magazine article, CLICK HERE.