JoAnn Ellis and her daughter Johnna Walker and granddaughter Nacobi are three generations of Chickasaw women. Here, they reflect on their cultural heritage and its importance in their lives, with the hope Chickasaw oral traditions and lifeways will continue on to future generations. All see the Cultural Center as a treasure that will have lasting impact.

JoAnn Ellis: Aug. 20, 1947-Sept. 27, 2025