Phyliss J. Anderson facts for kids

Phyliss J. Anderson made history as the first woman to be elected Chief of the Mississippi Band of Choctaw Indians. She became Chief after winning an election on July 6, 2011. She took over from the previous Chief, Beasley Denson.

About Chief Phyliss J. Anderson

Phyliss Anderson was officially sworn in as Chief on July 12, 2011. She is the fourth elected tribal chief of the Mississippi Band of Choctaw Indians. This is since the tribal government was re-established in 1945.

Early Life and Education

Phyliss Anderson went to Choctaw Central High School. She also studied at East Central Community College. Before becoming Chief, she was a Choctaw Indian Princess.

Leading the Tribe

Chief Anderson took office during a challenging time for the tribe's businesses. Some of their most successful businesses faced concerns about how they were run. She stated that making sure the tribe was financially strong would be her main goal. She promised to not allow bullying or threats to jobs.

In December 2011, Chief Anderson was chosen for a special role. She introduced President Barack Obama at the 3rd Annual White House Tribal Nations Conference. This was a big honor.

Important Financial Steps

In February 2012, Chief Anderson signed an important agreement. As Tribal Chief, she signed a $78 million loan package with Trustmark. This money was used to help manage the loans for the Mississippi Choctaw's Pearl River Resort in Choctaw. It also helped the Bok Homa Casino in Jones County. This helped the tribe's businesses stay strong.

In October 2012, a special portrait of Chief Anderson was shown to the public. It was unveiled at the Mississippi Agriculture and Forestry Museum.