WEWIN honors Ernie Stevens Jr. and Cheryl Stevens with leadership award

WEWIN recognized the Stevens family for decades of service to tribal nations and Native leadership

August 4, 2026

According to Native News Online, Women Empowering Women for Indian Nations presented its Legacy of Leadership Award to Cheryl Stevens and the late Ernie Stevens Jr. during its 2026 conference in Tulsa, Oklahoma. The award recognizes the couple's longtime commitment to tribal sovereignty, Native women and Indigenous leadership. Indian Gaming Association Chairman David Z. Bean and Secretary Christie Modlin accepted the award, with Modlin accepting on behalf of Cheryl Stevens, who was unable to attend because of a family bereavement.

Bean said Ernie Stevens Jr. supported WEWIN throughout his leadership of the Indian Gaming Association because he believed in investing in Native women and future leaders. According to the Native News Online reporting, WEWIN said the award also honors Cheryl Stevens for carrying forward her husband's commitment to tribal nations, Native families and future generations of Indigenous leaders.

1.Levi Rickert. WEWIN Honors Ernie Stevens Jr. and Cheryl Stevens with Legacy of Leadership Award at 2026 Conference. Native News Online.

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1.Levi Rickert. WEWIN Honors Ernie Stevens Jr. and Cheryl Stevens with Legacy of Leadership Award at 2026 Conference. Native News Online.

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