Governor Bill Anoatubby

Governor Bill Anoatubby was born in Denison, Texas but moved just three years later to Tishomingo, Oklahoma, after the passing of his father. Following high school, he served in the National Guard where he began saving half of his paychecks for his college tuition. He then earned his associate's degree at Murray State College and later a degree in accounting at East Central University.
In 1975 Anoatubby became the health services director of The Chickasaw Nation, serving under Chickasaw Governor Overton James. After Governor James announced he would not be seeking re-election, Anoatubby decided to run for office. In 1987, Anoatubby was elected as Governor of The Chickasaw Nation. Under his leadership, the Nation has made great strides in strengthening the its economy, sustainability, and, most importantly, its communities. Governor Anoatubby has helped spearhead the development of The Chickasaw Nation's economic and business growth, with more than 100 businesses operating within the nation and 14,000 workers employed.

Governor Anoatubby has been an ardent proponent of improving healthcare. In 1994, The Chickasaw Nation was the first to compact with the U.S. Indian Health Service and later opened The Chickasaw Nation Medical Center in 2010. More recently, he has been hard at work to help the tourism industry in Oklahoma with the grand opening of the OKANA Resort in February 2025. His leadership sets a benchmark for innovation and cultural preservation, leaving a legacy of progress that will continue to benefit future generations.