Anna C. Roth Honoree - Carmelita Wamego Skeeter

Carmelita Wamego Skeeter has dedicated nearly five decades to improving health care access and outcomes for Tulsa’s urban Native American population. Starting her journey in 1976 as a volunteer, Carmelita helped assess the health needs of Tulsa’s Native community, uncovering significant gaps in services. This work led her to co-found the Indian Health Care Resource Center (IHCRC), where she has served as Chief Executive Officer since 1989. Under her leadership, IHCRC has grown into a comprehensive health care provider, offering medical, dental, behavioral health, and community outreach services to thousands of individuals each year. 

Carmelita’s dedication has earned her numerous awards and accolades, reflecting her extraordinary contributions to Native American health and advocacy. These honors include the Indian Health Service Special Recognition Award and the Kenneth Anquoe Lifetime Achievement Dream Keeper Award (2021), the Dr. John and Tewanna Edwards Leadership Award (2023), the Dan Allen Social Justice Award (2016), and the Maxine Cissel Horner Spirit of Community Excellence Award (2003). The YWCA recognized her as an Honoree in Health for its Pinnacle Awards and named her one of its 100 Women of Moxie in 2014. In 2019, the City of Tulsa proclaimed Carmelita Skeeter Day to celebrate her legacy. She has also been recognized by the National Indian Health Board and the National Council of Urban Indian Health. 

A proud Citizen Potawatomi Nation member, Carmelita has been a relentless advocate for underserved populations, leading efforts like the Medicaid Expansion for Indians (House Bill 1518) and playing a pivotal role in securing permanent approval of the Indian Health Care Improvement Act in 2010. Her leadership extends nationally, with involvement in organizations such as the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services Tribal Technical Advisory Group and the Susan G. Komen Foundation's American Indian/Alaska Native national advisory council. She also serves on the Iron Gate Advisory Council and on Southern Plains Tribal Health Broad as an Urban Representative.

Carmelita’s legacy is rooted in action and advocacy. Known for rallying support and finding solutions in times of need, she has ensured that the health care needs of Native Americans in Tulsa and beyond are not just met but exceeded. Her work has left an indelible mark, improving countless lives and inspiring future generations to continue her mission of equity and empowerment.