Sams is named an Oregon History Maker
By Terry Murry on Thursday, April 4th, 2024 in Columbia Basin News More Top Stories
PORTLAND – National Park Service Director Chuck Sams is named one of four Oregon History Makers by the Oregon Historical Society. The annual banquet honoring those that shape the history, culture, and landscape of Oregon will be held this fall. Sams is honored as a Tribal and conservation leader.
The enrolled member of the Walla Walla and Cayuse tribes served in many executive capacities for the Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation, including director of communications and interim executive director. He made history in 2021 when he became the first American Indian to serve as director of the United States National Park Service.
Also being honored are Dr. David Huang of Oregon Health & Science University who has made a major breakthrough in preventing blindness; Susan Sokol Blosser, who is the co-founder of Sokol Blosser Winery; and Papé Machinery based in Eugene, the west’s leading supplier of heavy equipment.
“For 15 years, the Oregon Historical Society has celebrated Oregon’s living leaders, highlighting individuals and businesses who work tirelessly to make our state and our world a better place,” OHS Executive Director Kerry Tymchuk said in a prepared statement.
The 2024 Oregon History Makers will receive their awards at a banquet on Oct. 6 at the Portland Art Museum. Table sponsorships and individual tickets are available.
