Saginaw Chippewa Tribe swears in Frank Cloutier as new leader


Frank Cloutier is the new chief of the Saginaw Chippewa Tribe of Michigan. Photo from Facebook

The Saginaw Chippewa Tribe of Michigan installed a new council on Tuesday.

Frank Cloutier, a newcomer to the council, was sworn in as chief. He was selected for top position in a secret ballot among his colleagues.

“It is truly an honor to be selected to serve as tribal chief for my Anishinaabe tribal community," Cloutier said in a press release. "I will do everything in my power to ensure we all collectively work for what is in the best interest of the tribe."

Cloutier is the tribe's former public relations director. He left the post to serve on the council after winning a run-off election last month.

Joining Cloutier in executive leadership positions are Sub-Chief Brent Jackson, Treasurer Gayle Ruhl and Secretary Michelle Colwell. Other members of the council are Sergeant-At-Arms Ronald Ekdahl, Chaplain Diana Quigno-Grundahl, Candace Benzinger, Tim Davis, Lindy Hunt, Amanda Oldman, Ron Nelson and Kenny Sprague.

Get the Story:
Frank Cloutier elected chief of Saginaw Chippewa Indian Tribe (MLive 12/2)
New chief elected for Saginaw Chippewa Indian Tribe (Central Michigan Life 12/1)
Tribal spokesman wins in run-off election (The Mt. Pleasant Morning Sun 11/19)

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