Joyce Dugan
Joyce Dugan (born c.1952, Cherokee) is an American educator, school administrator, and politician; she served as the 24th Principal Chief of the federally recognized Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians (1995-1999), based in Western North Carolina. She was the first woman to be elected to this office, and as of 2024 the only one.
Joyce Dugan | |
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Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians Principal Chief | |
In office 1995–1999 | |
Preceded by | Gerard Parker |
Succeeded by | Leon Jones |
Personal details | |
Born | c.1952 Western North Carolina |
Leading the tribe when it opened Harrah's Cherokee, a major gaming casino in November 1997, Dugan managed a time of economic expansion for the tribe. She worked to restructure the government and adopt more financial controls. She also established a cultural division in tribal government, working on "cultural heritage issues such as language, repatriation, museum exhibit, and education." Dugan was also active in environmental issues and health.