Kristi Cole, a proud citizen of the Cherokee Nation, was raised in Tahlequah, Oklahoma. She earned a B.A. in Mass Communications from Northeastern State University.
Kristi's journey with the Cherokee Nation began in 2004 as a member of the team that launched the original Cherokee Casino in Tahlequah. After completing her degree, she joined the Cherokee Nation Gaming Commission.
In 2021, Kristi transitioned to Cherokee Nation Grant Services as a Grant Management Specialist, where she managed grants and ensured compliance with reporting requirements. By March 2022, she was promoted to Grant Development Supervisor, overseeing the preparation and submission of grant applications on behalf of the Cherokee Nation and its departments. Kristi finds great fulfillment in her work, appreciating how grants bring new opportunities to serve the Cherokee people.
She is an active member of the Grant Professionals Association (GPA) and part of the social media committee for the Oklahoma Chapter of GPA. Kristi has represented the Cherokee Nation at various conferences, symposiums, and events, including Cherokee Nation Legislative Day at the Oklahoma State Capitol.
Outside of work, Kristi loves attending concerts and hunting for vinyl records with her son, who is currently a student at Oklahoma State University. They share a passion for 90s rock and live music. Kristi resides in Tahlequah with her son and their beloved cat, Ma'am.
