During the 20 years it has been in existence, the Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma’s Youth Advisory Board (YAB) has shown itself to be one of the most successful groups for youth leadership in southeast Oklahoma. Founded by Chief Gary Batton, YAB held its first meeting in May 2004 in Hugo. The group has grown to chapters in 29 locations and has 13 staff positions.
The YAB 20th Anniversary Celebration and Leadership Conference was held Nov. 9, on the Historic Choctaw Capitol Grounds at Tvshka Homma. YAB alumni spoke, as did Chief Gary Batton, and Assistant Chief Jack Austin Jr. There were 130 in attendance, including 16 returning alumni and members of the Choctaw Tribal Council.
Chief Batton’s inspirational talk was a highlight of the event as he spoke about “what a great journey it has been for the program,” and gave students the charge “to keep that fire burning.”
While many chapters meet in Choctaw Community Centers, being Native American is not required for membership. This yearround program is open to all students in 8th - 12th grades. Some chapters meet in schools that even consider YAB as an extra-curricular activity. In addition, participation in YAB activities has helped a number of students with scholarship eligibility. Southeast Oklahoma YAB alumni have attended Dartmouth College and Harvard University, while others receive higher education closer to home. Several have gone to work for the Choctaw Nation in various positions, including advisors in the YAB program.
Communication skills are developed, and confidence built through student-led activities, such as community service projects and regular training sessions from the John Maxwell Servant Leadership Program.
YAB students complete projects aligned with the values and priorities of the Choctaw Nation: Faith, Family, and Culture. Projects in 2024 have focused on cultural awareness, senior care and community support. One chapter hosted a Relay for Life Event for the American Cancer Society; another chapter held a 9/11 Remembrance stair climb that was attended by over 10 area first-responder groups, such as fire, police and emergency services. One chapter collected more than 500 stuffed animals in a teddy bear drive for first responders to give to children going through trauma; and one chapter is partnering with a local Masons’ lodge to raise money for underprivileged children this Christmas.
Greg Parnell, program manager for YAB, said, “Something YAB took away from this event is the power of teamwork. The 20-year celebration of YAB brought together current students, alumni, advisors, and Choctaw Nation leaders. This collaborative effort fostered an environment where diverse perspectives and experiences are valued, and everyone worked toward our common goal of servant leadership.”
The YAB office is located at the Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma Headquarters, 1802 Chukka Hina, Durant, OK 74701. Contact yab@choctawnation.com or 800522-6170.
