Richard Poweshiek (Sac and Fox) was born on November 28, 1925, in Des Moines, Iowa. He graduated from Haskell Junior College with an Associate’s degree and the University of Oklahoma with a Bachelor’s degree in 1975. He served in the Navy during World War II and received an honorable discharge. Mr. Poweshiek worked as an Alcoholics Anonymous counselor, a social worker, and an Indian Child Welfare advocate. He served as an officer in OICWA, diligently maintaining membership records and keeping the books. He was an integral part of the growth of the organization and after his retirement, he remained involved by providing advice and being available when needed. Richard retired in 1995 to care for his wife. He passed away at the age of eighty-two on Saturday, September 13, 2008, at his home. His impact in Indian Child Welfare in Oklahoma and OICWA will never be forgotten.

The Oklahoma Indian Child Welfare Association is accepting nominations for the 2024 Richard Poweshiek Award to recognize an individual in Oklahoma who has demonstrated an outstanding commitment and dedication to the tenets of the Indian Child Welfare Act (ICWA). Criteria to be considered include: distinction in the field of Indian Child Welfare, advocacy toward Indian children and their families, knowledge and proficiency of ICWA in its application in state courts, demonstrated leadership in promoting communication between state, private, community, and tribal agencies, and forming successful working relationships within the communities they serve. The nominee must be employed by a tribal Indian Child Welfare agency. The nomination may be received from any individual or organization with particular knowledge of the nominee’s attributes. Please note that the selected honoree will be presented the award at the Oklahoma Indian Child Welfare Association’s 17th Annual Conference on November 12th thru 14th, 2023 at the Downstream Resort and Casino in Quapaw, Oklahoma.
 
Please provide narrative description for nomination of the individual for the Richard Poweshiek award, indicating their qualities and achievements. Be as detailed as possible providing specific examples of the reasons for the nomination.
 
Deadline for submission: August 30, 2024