The Vice-Chairman of the Shakopee Mdewakanton Sioux Community (SMSC) has been honored by the National Indian Gaming Association (NIGA) with one of its most prestigious leadership awards. Keith Anderson received the John Kieffer Spirit of Sovereignty Award from NIGA Chairman Ernie Stevens, Jr. on September 9 at the organization’s mid-year meeting in Oklahoma.
The Kieffer Award recognizes “selfless dedication to advancing the lives of Native Americans socially and economically, building self-sufficiency, and being an advocate for tribal self-determination.” The award is named for John Kieffer, who was Vice-Chairman of the Spokane Tribe and served on the NIGA board from 1993 until his untimely death in 1999. Kieffer was instrumental in NIGA’s development and the protection of tribal sovereignty.
Anderson has served as SMSC Vice-Chairman since August 2012, and previously served eight years as Secretary/Treasurer. He is known as a fearless advocate for tribal rights and the empowerment of tribes through economic development and policy engagement.
