Wichita museum recognizing Native American leaders, including 10-time Paralympic medalist

WICHITA, Kan. (KWCH) - The Mid-American All-Indian Museum is recognizing the trail blazers in society.

On Friday, it hosted its first ever Hall of Honor recognizing Native Americans whose lives and work have made a lasting impact. It includes the first enrolled citizen of a tribe to fly in space, as well as the creator of the iconic Keeper of the Plains statue.

Another inductee was 10-time Paralympic medalist Cheri Madsen of the Omaha tribe.

Madsen said the honor goes beyond the recognition.

“Honestly, it’s just giving back to our community and being able to encourage,” Madsen said. “Hopefully people will be able to hear our stories and want to one day do something.”

Madsen qualified for four different Olympics, from the 1996 games in Atlanta to her most recent in Tokyo in 2020.

Following her retirement, Madsen has transitioned into coaching the next generation of athletes.