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ORAL HISTORY

Dana Adkins

Chickahominy Tribe

Dana Adkins is an environmental leader and citizen of the Chickahominy Indian Tribe, where he serves as the Tribe’s Environmental Director. Born in Richmond, Virginia, and raised in Charles City County, Dana has deep roots in his community. His upbringing, surrounded by family gardens and traditional practices, instilled in him a connection to the land and its stewardship. After a successful career in the chemical industry, Dana transitioned to tribal leadership in 2019, establishing and directing the Chickahominy Tribe’s first Environmental Office. Under his guidance, the office has implemented programs focused on water quality, air quality, and sustainable land management, including the future development of a food forest that combines indigenous practices with ecological science to nourish both the land and the community. Dana’s work bridges traditional ecological knowledge (TEK) with Western science, reflecting his belief in the symbiotic relationship between environmental health and cultural preservation. A passionate advocate for environmental justice, he is committed to protecting his tribe’s natural resources while fostering collaborations with academic institutions and government agencies. Through his leadership, Dana continues to honor his tribe’s legacy by ensuring a sustainable future for the land and the people who depend on it.