By Lani Hansen, Senior Reporter
OKMULGEE, Oklahoma- Mvskoke Media’s Editorial board seats three members, the first member was appointed by Principal Chief David Hill, who was the Executive Director for the Native American Journalist Association Rebecca Landsberry. The second spot has now been filled with the MCN National Council’s appointee Spencer Torbett.
Muscogee (Creek) citizen Torbett, is from Okmulgee where he is an attorney for Pipestem Law Firm out of Tulsa, OK. This law firm specializes in tribal law and advocates benefits for the tribes. They also help represent tribes in different areas.
Torbett went to high school at Morris, then he attended Oklahoma State University for his undergrad. After getting his degree from OSU, he studied law at the University of Tulsa.
Torbett was appointed by the National Council and will serve a two-year term.
“I was contacted by Representative William Lowe, he asked if I’d like to consider serving. I told him I would be happy too,” Torbett said.
Torbett previously served on the first iteration of the board before it was disbanded. The way the legislation was written for the first board was different for what they expect from the board now. The legislation NCR 20-007 states one of the board members must have a background in tribal law.
“Being on a media board is on the outside scope of what I normally do,” Torbett added. “But I am excited to get to learn and work with Rebecca Landsberry who was the other pick. So it’ll be a new experience.”
As a board member, Torbett has recognized Mvskoke Media’s reporting. He believes the goal is to build the best support system for the media to continue to report news. He also hopes to build a solid foundation for Mvskoke Media.
Torbett was happy when they had asked if he would serve on the board.
The final board member will be decided between Torbett and Rebecca Landsberry.
