Cherokee Nation Employee Recognized by National Indian Education Association

TAHLEQUAH, Okla. - The National Indian Education Association named longtime Cherokee Nation employee, Carolyn Allen, as 2026 Elder of the Year.

Allen served the tribe for 13 years but holds four decades of experience in education and community service. Before working for the tribe, she served the community as a special education teacher at Tahlequah Public Schools, in that role, Allen supported individual students' needs while connecting with families and fellow educators.

"We are extremely proud to celebrate with Carolyn Allen, she's had a profound impact on generations of students by providing specialized cultural learning and resources for native students," said Cherokee Nation Principal Chief Chuck Hoskin Jr. "Our Cherokee society has always valued investments into education and held those in educational roles in high regard."

Her service to the tribe includes eight years of service as a Cherokee Nation Election Commissioner, following her time on the Election Commission, Allen served in the Education Services department as a Johnson O'Malley program manager and later as a senior adviser. In her retirement she continues to serve her community as a member of the Hulbert Cherokee Community Organization.

"Recognition of a native teacher is always something to be proud of, especially whenever we get to celebrate one of our own elders," said Deputy Principal Chief Bryan Warner. "Being a former educator myself makes this even more special to me. Carolyn has changed the trajectory of hundreds of students just by being there for them."

Earlier this year, Allen was also recognized by the Oklahoma Council of Indian Education as 2026 Elder of the Year.

"This award gives recognition of her lifelong dedication to teaching, her wisdom, and unwavering commitment to empowering the next generation - a true role model for educators everywhere," said Education Services Executive Director Aaron Emberton, "Congratulations and well deserved."

NIEA was formed in 1969 by Native educators and advocates who were anxious to find solutions to improve the education system for Native children. The NIEA Convention was established to mark the beginning of a national forum for sharing and developing ideas and influencing federal policy.

"It truly is an honor to be recognized by the NIEA and Cherokee Nation as 2026 Elder of the Year," said Allen. "Cherokee Nation continues to support educators and students all over the reservation whether its higher education, young children or our elders"