“My life’s goal is to see the creation of a progressive nation that is capable of providing development and opportunity for all members while caring for our elders.” - Calvin Cassady

Calvin Cassady’s connections to the Seneca-Cayuga Nation run deep. He was born in Tahlequah, Oklahoma to a mother who was Seneca-Cayuga and a Cherokee father. Calvin’s great-great grandfather, John, was a part of the founding members of the Seneca-Cayuga Nation, having been part of the Splitlog Mission development. 

Born at the Indian Hospital in Tahlequah, Oklahoma, Calvin then spent his elementary years  in eastern Kansas, he then spent the majority of his high school years in Joplin where he resided for the following 50 years.

Calvin completed his undergraduate studies by receiving his bachelor’s degree at MSSU. Then executed his Masters’ degree at Pittsburg State University as well as received an advanced education specialist degree attending the same school. During his post-graduate period he focused his efforts on special projects work at Oklahoma State University. 

A gifted writer and career educator, Calvin spent more than 30 years teaching middle-school aged students while serving as an instructor at Missouri Southern State University, most recently teaching English as a Second Language to college students there. One of the things he is most proud of is the 40 years invested as an educator, coupled with  his ability to help others’ achieve their potential while being a part of leadership at the Seneca-Cayuga Nation.   

When asked about his personal hopes and vision for the Seneca-Cayuga Nation, Calvin shared his top priorities: 1) ensuring the integrity of membership for all members of the nation, 2) creating an inclusive cultural community 3) expanding nation-owned businesses to create more jobs and economic resources for members of the nation.

When asked what he enjoys doing most in his free time, Calvin shared: “I enjoy writing, journaling, and blogging.” Cassady has recently authored and published a book titled “Bridging the Gap”, a story recounting a miraculous life event and journey to heaven. He is also is working on a podcast titled: “Intermission” which takes place on his personal facebook page live on Tuesdays and Thursdays on a weekly basis.

In the future, Cassady has aspirations of writing another book in the coming years on which topic is to be announced. The project will be focused on COVID-19, the times during and after the global health pandemic.

For Calvin, being a member of the Seneca-Cayuga Nation is his identity. He shared: “Being Seneca-Cayuga means I represent an original part of American history. I have the privilege of advocating for us as native people furthering our nation and provide even greater access to education.”