Matthew Wesaw
Chairman of the Pokagon Band of Potawatomi Indians
Matthew Wesaw is the longest-serving Chairman of the Pokagon Band of Potawatomi Indians, the tribal government that owns and operates the Four Winds Casino Resorts in Michigan and Indiana. He returned to the chairmanship in 2024 after a three-year hiatus, marking his fourth election to the post. Under his leadership, the tribe has expanded its gaming operations and signed the first-ever tribal-state gaming compact in Indiana.
Wesaw began his career in public service with the Michigan State Police in 1975, retiring in 2001 with the rank of Detective Sergeant. He was first elected chairman of the tribal council in 1996, stepping away after a few years but returning in 2002 following his police retirement. He has since led the tribe through key milestones, including the launch of Four Winds Ventures in 2025.
From 2013 to 2015, Wesaw served as Executive Director of the Michigan Department of Civil Rights. He is a past recipient of the Divine Servant Award (2026) from Great Lakes Christian College for his service in the marketplace. His career reflects a blend of law enforcement, tribal governance, and civil rights advocacy.