Lori Wallace grew up in Oklahoma and is a proud citizen of the Cherokee Nation, with family roots tracing back generations. Her great-great-grandmother, Lovey Whitfield "Tsi-gi-yu-i" (born March 2, 1882), was the daughter of John Shirley "Tsa-ni-Oa-we-la" and Addi Still-Shirley, who lived in the Cherokee Nation, Indian Territory, as early as 1851. Lori treasures her heritage and values the connections she maintains with her family, often sharing stories with her aunties and extended family members. Her Aunt Barbara Richards Kroll has mapped the family’s lineage worldwide, a testament to America's melting pot of cultures and a journey Lori holds dear.

For the past 30 years, Lori has lived in New Hampshire, where she raised her two sons, Samuel and Joshua, who now reside in Jackson Hole, Wyoming. Lori herself has recently returned to Tulsa, drawn by the opportunity to contribute to her community and connect more deeply with her Cherokee roots. Sam, Josh and Lori are registered Cherokee citizens.

With an MBA in Business and over 15 years of experience in IT project management, Lori has led diverse technology projects across corporate functions in IT, including operations, HR, marketing, and finance. Lori’s commitment to community service is equally strong. She volunteered with the YMCA for over 12 years as a youth group mentor and yoga instructor and served as a Learn United Volunteer and event volunteer for the United Way in Nashua, NH.

Now with CNALMA, Lori is passionate about supporting the growth and visibility of the Cherokee Nation within Oklahoma’s economy and American society. She is eager to apply her skills and life experiences to further CNALMA’s mission and help others connect to the richness of Cherokee heritage.