From left, Second Chief Norman Hildebrand, Jr., Kim Harnar (20 years), Cesilie Hale (5 years), Tara Gragg (10 years), Jan Graham (15 years), Faron Lee (15 years), Garold Alumbaugh (15 years), Kelly Friend (20 years)and Chief Billy Friend. Photo by William Swaim | Wyandotte Nation

Wyandotte Nation Chief Billy Friend honored Human Resources Director as Employee of the Year Friday, May 20, at the annual Employee Appreciation event held at River Bend Casino & Hotel in Wyandotte, Okla.
Howard was nominated by fellow employees and was instrumental in helping the Tribe navigate its way through the pandemic.
On Friday, Chief Friend and Second Chief Norman Hildebrand, Jr., also honored seven employees for their years of service. Cesilie Hale was honored for 5 years of service and Tara Gragg for 10 years. Jan Graham, Faron Lee and Garold Alumbaugh received recognition for 15 years. Kelly Friend and Kim Harnar were recognized for their 20 years of work for the Tribe.
Chief Friend gave a presentation to employees, and lunch was catered by Red Onion and sponsored by McGinnis.

Second Chief Norman Hildebrand, Jr., and Wyandotte Nation Chief Billy Friend presented Human Resources Director Deana Howard with a plaque and flowers after honoring her as Employee of the Year. Howard was instrumental in helping the Tribe navigate the pandemic. Photo by William Swaim | Wyandotte Nation