Meet Our Team

Administration

Dorothy A. Rhoades, MD, MPH

Dr. Dorothy A. Rhoades is dedicated to addressing chronic disease and cancer health disparities within Native American communities. She holds a Medical Degree from the University of California San Francisco School of Medicine and a Master of Public Health in Epidemiology from the University of Washington School of Public Health. Currently serving as the inaugural Director of the Native American Center for Cancer Health Equity (NACCHE) and Professor of Medicine at the University of Oklahoma Health Sciences and OU Health-Stephenson Cancer Center in Oklahoma City, Dr. Rhoades is rooted in her role as a Kiowa Tribal Member. Her work spans decades and is characterized by a strong emphasis on collaborative research with Tribal Nations and mentorship for Indigenous early-stage investigators.

Dr. Rhoades' efforts extend beyond research to encompass education, outreach, clinical access, and policy initiatives aimed at reducing the significant cancer disparities faced by Indigenous populations. Her leadership at NACCHE underscores her commitment to advancing health equity and improving outcomes for Native American communities affected by cancer.

List of publications: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/myncbi/dorothy.rhoades.1/bibliography/public/

Kristen Wilson, MSHR

Kristen Wilson, MSHR, is the Senior Program Manager of the Native American Center for Cancer Health Equity at the University of Oklahoma Health-Stephenson Cancer Center in Oklahoma City. Mrs. Wilson, a citizen of the Kickapoo Tribe of Oklahoma, obtained her Master of Science in Human Resources Administration from East Central University. Mrs. Wilson has decades of experience working in the American Indian/Native American Communities within Oklahoma and she continues to foster tribal partnerships throughout Oklahoma. She is committed in working with tribal partners to improve the cancer disparities among Indigenous communities.

Tribal Outreach Liaisons

Emily Mitchell (Creek)

Emily Mitchell, B.A., is a Tribal Outreach Liaison for the Native American Center for Cancer Health Equity at the University of Oklahoma’s Stephenson Cancer Center located in Oklahoma City. Prior to her professional career, Emily obtained a B.A. in Mass Communications/Public Relations from the University of Central Oklahoma and an A.A. in Liberal Arts from Rose State College. She is a proud tribal citizen of the Muscogee Creek Nation. Emily has experience in working with various tribal nations and state agencies during her career. Her professional work experience includes tribal Social Services, Foster Care and Adoptions, Indian Child Welfare, Tribal Courts, Adult Protective Services, Child Protective Services, Children and Family Services, and the Oklahoma State Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services in Human Resource Development. Emily is dedicated to fostering relationships with tribal nations to educate tribal members and the public regarding health disparities, cancer prevention, cancer education, and overall health.

Iris Sanchez (Comanche)

Iris Sanchez, MPA, MJIL, is a Tribal Outreach Liaison for the Native American Cancer Center for Health Equity at the University of Oklahoma Health-Stephenson Cancer Center. A member of the Comanche Nation, Ms. Sanchez holds a Master of Jurisprudence in American Indian Law from the University of Tulsa and a Master of Public Administration with an emphasis in Tribal Government Management and Leadership from California State University, San Bernardino. Ms. Sanchez has a long history of community outreach to American Indian communities as well as a dedication to promoting education and preserving cultural heritage.