They call him "chief," and Stan Jones has certainly earned the title.

Jones is retiring from the Tulalip Tribes Board of Directors after serving for more than 44 years in the leadership role. In fact, he was the board chairman for more than half his tenure.

During his years of service, Jones has made innumerable lasting contributions to the tribal community and the reservation's neighbors. More than thirty years ago, he was instrumental in reviving the Salmon Ceremony and has been a proud participant every year since. He was also a valuable leader in the efforts that led to the Boldt Decision, awarding half the state's salmon catch to Washington's tribes.

Jones has been a member of many tribal committees, helping to guide the gaming, hunting, fishing and business committees. He was appointed the first chairman of the National Task Force on Indian Gaming, and negotiator of the first tribal-state compact for the casinos. A respected voice both on and off the reservation, Jones has spoken at the United Nations, has met with Bill Gates and other business leaders, as well as governors, mayors and senators. He has even advised three presidents on matters of Indian affairs.

"Stan has worked passionately to improve educational and housing conditions, expand job and business opportunities, and increase the quality of youth and elder's programs," said tribal chairman Mel Sheldon. "He has helped improve the quality of life, health and well-being of his people today and for the years to come."

In 2001, Jones was honored with the Wendell Chino Humanitarian Award at the National Indian Gaming Association convention, and in 2007 he was awarded the Tribal Gaming Visionary and Small Business Empowerment Award. In recognition of his community involvement, Stan and his wife, JoAnn Jones, were chosen to be Grand Marshals of the 2009 Strawberry Festival.

A World War II Marine Corps veteran, Jones served proudly in the South Pacific and continues to be an advocate for military veterans.

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