Principal Chief Michell Hicks

Michell Hicks, CPA, was recently reelected as Principal Chief of the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians by an overwhelming majority. Hicks previously served 3 terms as Principal Chief and is a former Executive Director of Budget and Finance. Michell led the 15,000-member tribe through a period of remarkable economic development and cultural advancement. During his time in office, Michelle has displayed significant foresight and resolve in the financial and strategic progress of the tribe. He has also established himself as a national leader in Indian country. Michell is a graduate of Western Carolina University with a bachelor’s degree in business administration. In 2015 he was awarded an Honorary Doctorate of Humane Letters from the University of North Carolina – Asheville. Michell and his wife, Marsha, reside in Cherokee with their five children: Savannah, Noah, Lynsey, Amaya and Marlee.

Michell Hicks, Principal Chief
88 Council House Loop
Cherokee, NC 28719
(828) 497-7000

Chief’s Office Contact List

Paxton Myers
Chief of Staff

Pam Straughan
Deputy Chief of Staff
(828) 359-7002
pamstraughan@ebci-nsn.gov

Rae Queen
Executive Assistant
(828) 359-7009
raequeen1@ebci-nsn.gov

Whitney Lowe
Fiscal Specialist
(828) 359-7003
whitneylowe@ebci-nsn.gov

Melah Perkins
Constituent Services
(828) 359-7017
melaperk@ebci-nsn.gov

Please send all General Media Inquiries or Speaking Requests to:

Sheyahshe Littledave
Public Relations Officer
(828) 359-7007
sheylitt@ebci-nsn.gov

Driver Blythe
Public Relations Assistant
(828) 359-7016
drivblyt@ebci-nsn.gov