Chuck Sams, a long-time tribal leader from Oregon and director of the National Park Service, has been named as one of four Oregon History Makers for 2024.

Sams is an enrolled member of the Walla Walla and Cayuse tribes and a former communications director and interim executive director of the Confederated Tribes of Umatilla Indian Reservation. His career also spans nonprofit management.

Sams in 2021 became the first American Indian to serve as director of the National Park Service.

Joining Sams in this year’s group of state history makers are Dr. David Huang of Oregon Health & Science University, who co-invented imaging technology that helps prevent blindness, benefiting millions of people around the globe; Susan Sokol Blosser, co-founder of Sokol Blosser Winery, in Dayton, and founder of the Yamhill Enrichment Society, which brings music and literacy to local children; and Papé Machinery based in Eugene, a heavy equipment dealer.

Oregon Historical Society Boyle Family Executive Director Kerry Tymchuk said in a press release this year’s honorees exemplify the best of what Oregon has to offer.

“For 15 years, the Oregon Historical Society has celebrated Oregon’s living leaders, highlighting individuals and businesses who work tirelessly to make our state, and our world, a better place,” Tymchuk said.

The historical society is scheduled to celebrate this year’s honorees at the 2024 Oregon History Makers Awards & Dinner on Oct. 6 at the Portland Art Museum.