| Michell Hicks | |
| Office: | Principal Chief of the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians |
| Term Start: | 2003 |
| Term End: | 2015 |
| Predecessor: | Leon Jones |
| Successor: | Patrick Lambert |
| Term Start1: | October 2, 2023 |
| Predecessor1: | Richard Sneed |
| Birth Date: | 8 September 1964[1] |
Michell Alexander Hicks is the 26th and current Principal Chief of the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians. He previously served three terms as Principal Chief from 2003 to 2015, becoming the youngest person ever to hold the position at age 38. In 2023, he was re-elected as Principal Chief, marking the beginning of his fourth term. Throughout his leadership, he has guided the 16,000-member tribe through significant economic growth and cultural preservation efforts.
He is recognized as a national leader in Indian Country, known for his commitment to the advancement and well-being of his tribe and community.[2] [3]
Hicks was born and raised on the Qualla Boundary, the land trust of the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians.[4] He has a bachelor's degree in business administration from Western Carolina University. He and his wife Marsha have 5 children.[5]
Prior to serving as Principal Chief, Hicks has also served as the Eastern Band's Executive Director of Budget and Finance.[5]