Chad "Corntassel" Smith

Chad "Corntassel" Smith, the former Principal Chief of the Cherokee Nation, is recognized for his transformative leadership, which significantly enhanced the economic, educational, and cultural spheres of the Cherokee community. During his tenure from 1999 to 2011, Smith led a substantial growth in the Nation's assets from $150 million to $1.2 billion, expanded healthcare services from $18 million to $310 million, created 6,000 jobs, and significantly advanced education, language, and cultural preservation programs.

Smith's strategic approach is encapsulated in his principle-based leadership and his "Point A to Point B" model, detailed in his book "Leadership Lessons from the Cherokee Nation: Learn from All I Observe." His model has proven effective across various sectors including business and government. An acclaimed author, Smith also contributed to the Cherokee literary and cultural preservation by designing, compiling, and editing "Building One Fire, the Art and Culture of Cherokee Life," which has been celebrated for its insightful portrayal of Cherokee art and culture.

Beyond his leadership within the Cherokee Nation, Smith has an eclectic background, having served as an ironworker, tax lawyer, assistant district attorney, public defender, and Attorney General. He has been a visiting professor at Dartmouth College and continues to practice law. An active participant in community and cultural activities, he has engaged in unique fundraising efforts like rappelling from a 19-story hotel for Special Olympics and bicycling the 980-mile Trail of Tears to foster Cherokee youth leadership. His diverse professional and cultural commitments highlight his dedication to fostering sustainable economies and cultural resilience, particularly in rural areas.