Tribal leaders pose with the winners of the 2024 Outstanding Elders. Pictured left to right: Assistant Chief Jack Austin, Jr., Tribal Council Member Eddie Bohanan, Jerry Bohanan, Gina Self, Chief Gary Batton, and Tribal Council Member Perry Thompson.
Choctaw Nation Announces the Outstanding Elders of the Year
Published December 3, 2024DURANT, Okla. – The Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma hosted the 2024 Outstanding Elder banquet to honor the elders from each district who stood out as exceptional examples of the Chahta spirit, going above and beyond for their communities. Jerry Bohanan of Smithville, Okla., and Gina Self of Hugo, Okla., were the recipients of the 2024 awards.
“Every year, it is an honor to recognize these wonderful tribal members,” said Chief Gary Batton. “Our Elders are a shining light to our communities and an example for the generations that come after. Yakoke to each of you for giving your time and energy to help your peers.”
Bohanan is the male Outstanding Elder. Bohanan, from Smithville, Okla., was nominated representing District 3. His nomination reads, “On Wednesdays, he can always be found at the Community Center helping serve meals or taking food to homebound elders. (He’s) Never wanting credit or recognition, and Jerry takes pride in helping make the Smithville Choctaw Community Center the best it can be in its service to others.” Bohanan volunteers for fundraisers and cutting down trees. He helps wherever he can, “proudly representing the Choctaw people.”
Self is the female Outstanding Elder and lives in Hugo, Okla. A member of District 8, she began volunteering at the Choctaw Community Center after retiring from her 28 years of service at the Choctaw County Health Department. Her nomination reads, “Gina’s presence is a constant at community events, where she is always ready to lend a hand whenever needed. She is well-known for organizing successful social events and assisting with Indian taco sales. Gina’s pride in the Choctaw heritage is evident in everything she does, and she embodies the principles of servant leadership, consistently putting the needs of others before her own.” Self attributes her dedication to serving her community to her deep-rooted values and strives to make a positive impact, leaving a lasting legacy of kindness and service.
The Outstanding Elders Banquet has been held since 1999. Each of the twelve districts nominate a male and a female each year who are invited to attend the banquet to celebrate the group’s service to their communities.