A citizen of the Cheyenne River Sioux Tribe and longtime Executive Director of the Great Plains Tribal Chairman’s Association in Rapid City, South Dakota, Gay Kingman has worked for over 25 years as a teacher, principal, and tribal college president. She previously held positions as Executive Director of the National Congress of American Indians and Public Relations Director of the National Indian Gaming Association. A fierce defender of tribal rights and sovereignty, in 1991 NCAI passed a resolution commending Kingman for her graciousness under pressure, her effectiveness in testifying before Congress, and her skill in coordinating lobbying campaigns.