By Christa Fulkerson
My campaign for a seat on the 9th Osage Congress is much more than a bid for political office; it is a heartfelt homage to my profound Osage heritage and a demonstration of my unwavering commitment to the well-being and future of all Osages.
As the granddaughter of the late Myrtle (Penn) Morrell Unap and the great-granddaughter of the late Robert Hlu-Ah-Wah-Kon-Tah Morrell and Grace Wah-te-sah Penn from the Zon-Zo-Li District, I carry not just the legacy of my ancestors in my name, but also in my spirit and steadfast dedication to our people. My candidacy is a bridge between the cherished wisdom of our past and my vision for a thriving future for our Osage community.
With a strong educational foundation, including a Master of Business Administration (MBA), a Bachelor of Human Services Management (BHSM), and a specialized certificate in Tribal Finance and Accounting from Oklahoma State University (OSU), I bring a comprehensive expertise in modern business practices and nuanced financial aspects of tribal governance. My career is marked by significant roles as the Grants & Fiscal Compliance Officer and Grants Management Director for the Osage Nation, along with a notable position at The Innovation Foundation at OSU where I currently serve as a Director of Grants Management and as a liaison among government agencies and partners. For example, at the Osage Nation alone I have had success in driving broadband infrastructure in the amount of $54.5M in federal funding, managed up to approximately $500M in a grants lifecycle, and helped secure the Yellowstone Buffalo Herd with the Osage Nation Ranch.
My vision for my role in the Osage Congress is deeply shaped by my personal journey and professional experiences. I stand on a platform committed to economic development, healthcare improvement, and the preservation of our Osage cultural heritage. This dedication to these pillars is not merely political; it reflects my personal values and my aspiration to see our community thrive.
At the heart of my candidacy is my conviction that fiscal responsibility and strategic financial management are essential for fulfilling the Osage Nation’s ambitions. This principle is more than a professional posture; it is a heartfelt guide to my governance approach. I understand that the prosperity of the Osage Nation is closely tied to how effectively we manage and allocate our resources, ensuring that each decision is a step towards a sustainable and vibrant future.
An essential part of my approach to a potential role in Congress is my recognition of the importance of building and sustaining relationships to facilitate legislative progress. I acknowledge that effective governance requires more than just strategic insight; it necessitates the ability to foster and maintain collaborations that drive meaningful change.
In summary, my commitment to the Osage Congress is founded on a desire to secure a resilient, culturally rich future for our people, with a focus on inclusive representation.
Editor’s Note: Candidate statements and announcements are not edited by the Osage News. They are a free submission offered to candidates of the 2024 Osage Nation Congressional Election.
