Cory M. Blankenship, a member of the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians (EBCI), has dedicated over 17 years to serving his tribe and community through leadership roles in non-profit, tribal finance, and philanthropy. 

Prior to joining NAFOA, Cory served as Community Investment Officer for Dogwood Health Trust, focusing on fostering economic opportunities related to social determinants of health. He was Secretary of the Treasury for EBCI for six years, where he oversaw daily financial operations, managed tribal investments, and led economic diversification efforts. His leadership extended to serving on boards and committees such as the Tribal Planning Board, Balsam West FiberNet, the Investment Committee, and EBCI Holdings LLC, where he chaired the Finance and Strategy Committee. During his nearly 12-year career with EBCI, Cory also held key positions as Tribal Treasurer and Finance Director.

In addition to his governmental roles, Cory served on various boards for local non-profits supporting his tribal community and surrounding areas, including the Cherokee Historical Association, the Museum of the Cherokee People, the Madison Hornbuckle Children’s Cancer Foundation, and the Cherokee Boys Club.

Cory holds a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science from North Carolina State University, a Master of Public Affairs from Western Carolina University, and a Master of Jurisprudence in Federal Indian Law from the University of Tulsa College of Law. In 2019, he received the 40 Under 40 award from the National Center for American Indian Enterprise Development. He and his wife, Jade (Colville Confederated Tribes), reside in the Big Cove Community of the Qualla Boundary (Cherokee Indian Reservation) with their five sons.