A new chapter is unfolding for the Caddo Nation's tribal administration. At the helm of this internal transformation is Travis Threlkeld, a proud Caddo Nation member who stepped into the role of Tribal Administrator in February 2024. With a rich background in public service and a deep commitment to his people, Threlkeld is ushering in an era of positive change, cultural sensitivity, and renewed hope for the tribe's day-to-day operations.
Threlkeld's journey to this pivotal role involved a significant personal decision. "I transitioned from council at exactly that time," he explains, referring to his choice to step down from his position as the Caddo Nation Binger District Representative on the Tribal Council. This move allowed him to fully commit to his new role as Tribal Administrator, where he oversees the departments that keep the tribe functioning every day.
As Tribal Administrator, Threlkeld is a key figure in managing its internal workings and fostering a positive work culture. His role involves overseeing approximately 20 departments and 100 staff members, focusing on the daily grind of departmental operations and employee relations.
"I also left my job with Oklahoma State Parks," Threlkeld adds, highlighting the significant career shift he made to serve his tribe in this capacity. This transition from external public service to internal tribal administration has given Threlkeld a unique perspective on the challenges and opportunities facing the Caddo Nation.
From State Parks to Tribal Leadership: A Journey of Service
Threlkeld's journey to tribal administration is rooted in over a decade of experience with Oklahoma State Parks. "I managed in some sort of supervisory capacity for over 11 years with state parks," Threlkeld reflects. This experience proved invaluable, teaching him to work with diverse groups and adapt to various personalities and situations.
"I really got to learn a lot working with so many different backgrounds, religions, ethnicities, cultures, everything like that," he shares. "You learn to really adapt to the different characteristics people might bring to you and the different personalities they have."
This adaptability and people-centric approach have become cornerstones of Threlkeld's leadership style at Caddo Nation. Overseeing about 20 different programs, including all tribal 638 programs, Threlkeld brings a fresh perspective to tribal administration.
Bridging Gaps and Building Trust
One of Threlkeld's primary motivations for taking on the role of Tribal Administrator was to address a long-standing issue within the tribe. "There's always been a disconnect between the upper leadership and day-to-day operations with staff," he observes. "I'd like to always mix that together."
> "I'm more of a 'Let's talk this out. Let's see if this is the best decision.' I like listening to everyone's ideas. I want them to feel heard."
This inclusive approach marks a significant shift from the traditional top-down management style. Threlkeld emphasizes the importance of valuing each employee's perspective and creating an environment where everyone feels their input matters.
Cultivating a Positive Work Culture
Threlkeld's vision for Caddo Nation extends beyond administrative efficiency. He's committed to fostering a work environment where employees feel valued and appreciated.
"My job is to place people in jobs that best fit their lifestyle and their strengths," he explains. This personalized approach has already yielded positive results, with employees expressing newfound appreciation for their roles within the tribe.
> "Even just today, a few employees came in just to say thank you for letting us off for Labor Day weekend for four days, and they got to spend more time with their family. They made the comment over and over again that for the first time in a long time, they feel like they're appreciated here."
Cultural Sensitivity in Policy Making
As both a tribal member and administrator, Threlkeld brings a unique perspective to policy-making. He's committed to ensuring that tribal policies reflect Caddo values and cultural practices.
A prime example of this is the revised bereavement leave policy. "For Caddos, we have seven days for a passing of an immediate loved one," Threlkeld explains. "We wanted to reflect that." The new policy provides five workdays of leave, ensuring employees have a full seven days to observe traditional mourning practices.
Additionally, Threlkeld has introduced cultural leave, allowing employees to participate in important cultural events. "We accounted for 24 hours of cultural leave a fiscal year," he notes. This policy extends beyond Caddo events, recognizing the diversity within the tribal workforce and encouraging cultural exchange.
Building Community Relationships
Threlkeld's vision extends beyond the tribal offices. He's actively working to strengthen relationships with surrounding communities and create memorable experiences for tribal members and neighbors alike.
A recent fireworks show at Fort Cobb State Park exemplifies this approach. "I was trying to think of things that would easily bring a community together, something that's free, something that incorporates a jurisdiction or a district that we haven't had a lot of stretch in in a while," Threlkeld shares.
The event brought together multiple agencies and communities, showcasing the power of collaboration. "We all had one objective there: How do we put on a great activity for the community to come out and enjoy?"
Navigating Challenges with Compassion
Threlkeld is acutely aware of the challenges faced by tribal employees, particularly those in public-facing roles. He praises the dedication of staff in departments like childcare, housing, community health representatives (CHRs), and social services.
> "God bless childcare and housing and CHRs and social services. They really deal one-on-one daily, without a doubt, with all kinds of tribal members, some that are thankful, some that aren't, some that feel they're entitled."
Despite these challenges, Threlkeld notes the unwavering commitment of his staff. "I don't think they would be here if they didn't love their job, especially with some of the stuff that they have to go through."
He urges tribal members to approach these interactions with understanding and respect. "My hope is that eventually the members will start having more trust in us and more compassion, regardless of who is elected in and anywhere."
A Vision for the Future
Looking ahead, Threlkeld envisions a Caddo Nation that balances traditional values with modern sustainability. In the short term, he aims to create a sustainable work culture that makes Caddo Nation an employer of choice.
"We want our name to go, 'Yeah, if you go to the Caddo Nation, as long as you're doing what you can do to help better the tribe, you're there, you're locked in, you're good.'"
Long-term, Threlkeld hopes to see the tribe maintain its 638 programs while becoming less dependent on strict application processes. "We don't want to do what's been happening before, putting the cart before the horse one after another, and then wondering why it's failing over and over again," he cautions.
Instead, he advocates for a measured, sustainable approach to growth. "As long as we keep our expectations at a decent pace and in a decent area, I think it's very achievable."
A Call for Unity and Understanding
As Caddo Nation moves forward under Threlkeld's leadership, he emphasizes the importance of unity and mutual understanding. He acknowledges the complex nature of being both a tribal member and an employee, noting the need to balance personal connections with professional responsibilities.
Threlkeld credits the current tribal leadership for creating a period of stability and growth, fostering hope among employees and tribal members alike. He sees this as a foundation for future success, urging all stakeholders to work together towards common goals.
> "I just couldn't ask for a better staff to keep this tribe moving forward. It's been really great."
As Caddo Nation continues to evolve and grow, Travis Threlkeld stands ready to guide the tribe towards a future that honors its rich cultural heritage while embracing new opportunities for prosperity and self-sustainability. With his blend of experience, vision, and heartfelt commitment to his people, Threlkeld is helping to write a new chapter in the Caddo Nation's story – one of unity, respect, and shared success.
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