Several Ho-Chunk leaders are being recognized among Wisconsin’s most influential Native voices for 2026.

     The list, published by Madison365, includes 28 Indigenous leaders from across the state. The annual recognition highlights Native leaders shaping their communities and aims to inspire future generations.

     Among those honored are multiple members of the Ho-Chunk Nation.

     Sherman Funmaker, a Bear Clan elder from Baraboo, was recognized for his work as a poet, storyteller, and cultural educator. His recent book, Bear Tracks: Memories of a Ho-Chunk Elder, reflects on his upbringing and helps pass down Ho-Chunk history and teachings.

     Tara Tindall was honored for her leadership in education as Native American teacher leader in the Madison Metropolitan School District, where she supports Native students and helps guide culturally accurate curriculum under Act 31.

     In the health field, Will Funmaker was recognized for his work as director of the Great Lakes Inter-Tribal Epidemiology Center and executive director of the Great Lakes Area Tribal Health Board, improving health outcomes for Native communities across the region.

     Casey Brown, a filmmaker and cultural preservationist, was also named to the list. His work documenting Ho-Chunk history and art, including an Emmy Award-winning film on Truman Lowe, continues to elevate Indigenous storytelling.

     The statewide list also includes leaders from other tribal nations and communities across Wisconsin, representing a wide range of fields.

     Those recognized include Nathan King, Katie Ackley, Dr. Lauren W. Yowelunh McLester-Davis, Dr. Jeneile Luebke, Alexx Zawada, Natasha Chevalier, Vincent Miresse, Lauren Cornelius, Debra J. Danforth, and Dr. James E. Pete, among others.

     Additional honorees named throughout the five-part series include Nicole Boyd, Gimiwan Dustin Burnette, Elizabeth Arbuckle, Tracey Cordova, Alison Bowman, Biskakone Greg Johnson, and others highlighted for their work in leadership, culture, education, and community development.

     Madison365 notes that the list is not exhaustive but reflects the depth and diversity of Native leadership across the state.