White Cloud, Kansas — The Iowa Tribe of Kansas and Nebraska proudly announces the election and swearing-in of Missty Slater as the new Chairwoman of the Tribe — the first woman in Tribal history to hold this office.
Chairwoman Slater was officially sworn in on October 22, 2025, marking a historic milestone for the Báxoje (Ioway) people and a powerful step forward for Tribal sovereignty, leadership, and community-driven progress.
A Historic First Grounded in Service and Sovereignty
“This moment is both deeply humbling and profoundly meaningful,” said Chairwoman Slater. “
Our Tribe’s strength has always come from the courage and resilience of our people. As Chairwoman, I am committed to ensuring our sovereignty translates into opportunity, equity, and a stronger future for the generations to come.”
Chairwoman Slater brings more than 15 years of experience in Tribal governance, economic development, policy analysis, and community stewardship.
She previously served as Chief of Staff for the Iowa Tribe of Kansas and Nebraska, and as Community Impact Director for Grey Snow Management Solutions, where she led initiatives focused on entrepreneurship, workforce development, and inter-Tribal trade.
Leadership Rooted in Community and Accountability
Slater is widely recognized for her expertise in modernizing Tribal governance structures, strengthening economic systems, and advancing equitable access to opportunity grounded in Báxoje values and research-driven strategy.
Her experience includes:
- Successfully writing and managing millions of dollars in grants annually
- Expanding Tribal economic development programs
- Supporting inclusive community investments
- Representing Indigenous business interests on trade missions to Australia, Alaska, and Japan
- Serving on the White Cloud Health Center Board and the Tribe’s Constitution Committee
“Chairwoman Slater’s leadership represents a new era for the Iowa Tribe of Kansas and Nebraska,” said a spokesperson for the Iowa Tribe.
“Her integrity, vision, and commitment to community-driven progress reflect the values of our people and the enduring spirit of self-determination that defines our sovereignty.”
A New Chapter of Collaboration and Shared Vision
“This is more than a historic first — it is a testament to the strength and vision of our community,” Slater said. “It is my honor to serve and to ensure that every voice within our Tribe is heard, valued, and empowered.”
As Chairwoman Slater transitions into her new role, Britni Beck will step into the position of Director of Business Development for Grey Snow Management Solutions, reporting to David Tam.
This leadership evolution strengthens the partnership between the Iowa Tribe of Kansas and Nebraska and Grey Snow Companies as they continue advancing economic sovereignty, infrastructure growth, and community opportunities across Indian Country.
We look forward to supporting Chairwoman Slater in her new role and to deepening the collaborative efforts between ITKN and Grey Snow Companies in the years ahead.
About the Iowa Tribe of Kansas and Nebraska
The Iowa Tribe of Kansas and Nebraska (ITKN) is a sovereign nation and federally recognized Tribe organized under a constitution and bylaws approved on February 26, 1937. The Tribe, also known as the Ioway or Báxoje, is headquartered on a reservation straddling the Kansas–Nebraska border, along the confluence of the Nímaha and Nyisoji — the Big Nemaha River and the Missouri River. The Iowa River and the State of Iowa were both named after the Tribe.
About Grey Snow Companies
Grey Snow Companies (GSC) is the economic development enterprise of the Iowa Tribe of Kansas and Nebraska.
Named for the Tribe’s self-description as Báxoje — Ba meaning “snow” and Xoje meaning “ashes” or “ash-colored” — GSC was created to build, manage, and support projects that strengthen Tribal sovereignty and expand opportunity across Indian Country.
Since 2019, GSC has grown a diversified portfolio serving Tribal, federal, state, and commercial partners. Our work spans infrastructure, workforce development, energy and food sovereignty, government support services, and economic development — all grounded in transparency, accountability, and long-term community benefit.
Our mission is straightforward: to deliver sustainable, responsible, and profitable services that enhance the cultural and economic well-being of the Iowa Tribe of Kansas and Nebraska and Tribal nations across the nation.
