Indian Health Care Resource Center of Tulsa (IHCRC) honored its Chief Executive Officer Carmelita Wamego Skeeter as the first recipient of the Firekeeper Award.
A Citizen Potawatomi Nation member and one of IHCRC’s first four employees when it opened in 1976, Mrs. Skeeter has dedicated nearly 50 years to advancing health and wellness in the American Indian community. Her leadership reflects both the values of the Firekeeper Award and the enduring spirit of the Citizen Potawatomi Nation, known as the “People of the Place of Fire.”
The Firekeeper Award honors individuals whose extraordinary support and dedication have fueled IHCRC’s mission and growth. Mrs. Skeeter’s unwavering commitment exemplifies the legacy of generosity and devotion the award seeks to celebrate. Moving forward, the Firekeeper Award will continue to recognize those who have made a lasting impact on IHCRC through steadfast support and service.
This honor comes at a milestone moment for IHCRC, as the organization nears completion of a 62,000-square-foot expansion set to open later this year. This will allow IHCRC to offer occupational, physical and speech therapy services, as well as expanded health and wellness, dentistry, optometry and pharmacy services.
Carmelita Wamego Skeeter’s unwavering support and contributions have left an indelible mark on the American Indian community, and through this award, IHCRC will continue to recognize her legacy.
The next Firekeeper Award winner will be honored during 2026’s Dance of the Two Moons, which will coincide with IHCRC’s 50th anniversary.