A 1982 graduate of Cherokee High School, Principal Chief Michell Hicks received a B.S. degree in Business Management from Western Carolina University in 1987 and an AAS degree in Accounting from Southwestern Community College in 1990. Chief Hicks has held various positions with the Eastern Band Cherokee dating back to 1987 when he served as the Assistant Business Manager for the tribe. In 1990, Chief Hicks became the Finance Officer with Qualla Housing Authority. From 1990-1996, Chief Hicks served as Certified Public Accountant with Mahoney, Cohen, and Company - in both their New York and Cherokee offices. In 1996, he returned to Tribal service as Executive Director of Budget and Finance - until his election to the office of Principal Chief of the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians in 2003.