Indian Gaming Association to Honor Eddie Leon Tullis with Sovereign Warrior Award at Chairman’s Leadership Luncheon

Washington, D.C. – March 18, 2026 – The Indian Gaming Association (IGA) will honor Eddie Leon Tullis, former Tribal Chairman of the Poarch Band of Creek Indians, because the recipient of the 2026 Rick Hill–Tim Wapato Sovereign Warrior Award through the Sovereign Warrior Celebration Luncheon, which honors the legacy of tribal leaders advocating for sovereignty. This occasion will happen on the Chairman’s Leadership Luncheon on Tuesday, April 1, 2026, from 12:30 to 2:00 PM on the Indian Gaming Tradeshow & Convention on the San Diego Convention Center in California.

This signature luncheon gathers tribal leaders, business companions, and honored company for an impactful program that mixes recognition, remembrance, and celebration of management all through Indian Country.

“Eddie Tullis represents the very spirit of a Sovereign Warrior,” mentioned Chairman Bean. “His leadership secured federal recognition for his Tribe, his vision created opportunity for future generations, and his lifelong commitment to sovereignty has strengthened Indian Country as a whole. We are proud to honor him in front of tribal leaders from across the nation.”

Chairman Bean added, “This luncheon is not only about recognition, but it is also about reflection. As we honor leaders like Eddie Tullis, we also remember those we have lost and recommit ourselves to the responsibility of protecting tribal sovereignty for generations to come.”

About Eddie Leon Tullis

Eddie Leon Tullis is among the most influential leaders within the historical past of the Poarch Band of Creek Indians and Indian Country. Born in 1938 in Mobile, Alabama, he served within the United States Navy earlier than constructing a 35-year profession at Monsanto.

Following the passing of Chief Calvin McGhee, Tullis stepped into management within the early Seventies and went on to function Tribal Chairman and CEO for 27 years, in addition to greater than 4 many years on the Tribal Council. He led the profitable effort to safe federal recognition for the Poarch Band of Creek Indians in 1984, making it the one federally acknowledged tribe in Alabama.

Under his management, the Tribe established its trendy authorities and launched its first gaming enterprises, creating a powerful financial basis that continues to help its folks at this time. Tullis additionally served in nationwide management roles, together with as Chairman of the National Advisory Council on Indian Education, and has been widely known for his lifelong dedication to youth and group growth.

The Chairman’s Leadership Luncheon and Sovereign Warrior Celebration stays probably the most significant gatherings of the Indian Gaming Tradeshow & Convention, honoring the leaders who’ve paved the way in which for tribal sovereignty, financial self-sufficiency, and the continued success of Indian gaming.