The evening’s speakers included remarks and Christmas salutations from N.C. Chief Hicks had an illustrious list of speakers to present. In 2015, he was recognized by the Native American Finance Officers Association as the Tribal Leader of the Year. In 2013, he was awarded the Tribal Gaming Visionary and Small Business Empowerment Award by the National Center for American Indian Enterprise Development, recognizing his leadership in the $650 million expansion of Harrah’s Cherokee Casino Resort and the involvement of American Indian-owned businesses in the project. Hicks has been recognized for his exceptional leadership and accomplishments. The evening was hosted by Michell Hicks, who recently won his fourth term as Principal Chief of the Eastern Band of the Cherokee Indians.

In this capacity, an Individual American Eagle Award for Public Service in 2023 was given to both Connie Davies and Mark Delk. According to Congressman Taylor, the dinner has been sponsored by Taylor and his family to recognize outstanding heroism in politics and small businesses and to encourage people who love their nation and work hard to keep it free.