The Cherokee Nation recently received a Certificate of Excellence from the Oklahoma Certified Healthy Business Program, a yearly health initiative from the Oklahoma Turning Point Council, Academy for State Goals, State Chamber of Commerce and Oklahoma State Department of Health. The program recognizes businesses that work to improve Oklahoma’s health status by providing health and wellness opportunities for their employees.

“One of our initiatives is to have healthy and happy people,” said Chad Smith, principal chief of the Cherokee Nation. “This award represents the commitment that Cherokee Nation has made in providing opportunities for our citizens to become involved and educated in their health through participation in one of our many health programs.”

To be certified, businesses must meet specific criteria, including providing employees health screenings, nutrition education, opportunities for physical exercise activities, management support for healthy workplace environments and tobacco-use prevention activities. There were 46 businesses selected to receive Certificates of Excellence this year.

In 2009, the Cherokee Nation passed legislation declaring all Cherokee Nation government property smoke- and tobacco-free. It promotes health through programs like tobacco cessation classes, health fairs, cooking courses and nutrition counseling. The Cherokee Nation also operates the Male Seminary Complex Recreation Center in Tahlequah, which is free to employees and their families, as well as Cherokee Nation citizens.

“A healthy lifestyle is the foundation for a successful and long-lived life,” said Julie Knutson, president of Oklahoma Academy. “We commend you on your motivation and drive to create the healthiest work place possible for your employees.”