Joshua Bess, Chickasaw citizen, serves as Secretary of the Chickasaw Nation Department of Family Services.  He has served in the Chickasaw Nation for 19 years.

He earned a Bachelor of Science in education and a Master of Science in human resources administration from East Central University.

He was appointed Secretary of the Chickasaw Nation Department of Family Services in January 2026.  In this role, he oversees comprehensive mental health services, substance use treatment services, and a wide array of human services programs, including foster care, child protective services, child support services, and violence prevention programs. His leadership supports programs designed to strengthen families and promote the overall well-being of Chickasaw people through the integration of mental health and family support systems.   

Previously, he was appointed Under Secretary of Support and Sustainability in 2022, where his duties included providing residential care, prevention and intervention, and supportive programs and services.

In 2016, Bess was appointed to the position of Executive Officer of the Family Support Division.  In this position, he oversaw Child Welfare Services, Child Support Services and Family Preservation Services.

He currently serves on multiple boards and committees, including the Chickasaw Foundation Board of Trustees, Chickasaw Foundation Board Governance Committee, Murrow Indian Children’s Home, Oklahoma Institute for Child Advocacy, Chickasaw Nation Head Start Governing Board and the Mercy Ada Hospital Board. He is a member of the Chickasaw Historical Society and the Pontotoc County Drug Free Coalition. 

Through his leadership and strong commitment to serving the Chickasaw People, Mr. Bess has worked to empower individuals, families, and communities.