The KCOA mission is to provide foundational objectives, strategic guidance and oversight to the Kiowa Casino Executive team to propel the Enterprise forward. The KCOA ensures the Enterprise remains in compliance with all legal and regulatory requirements, while maximizing shareholder value and providing revenue back to the Tribe.
Richard L. McMahon
Chairman of the Board
Richard L. McMahon serves as the Chairman of the Kiowa Casino Operations Authority (KCOA) Board of Directors. Under his leadership, the KCOA is dedicated to setting foundational objectives, providing strategic guidance, and maintaining vigilant oversight of the Kiowa Casino Executive team and enterprise. This robust framework is vital for steering the enterprise towards progressive growth and success.
Central to the Authority’s mission is the recruitment and retention of highly skilled executives responsible for the day-to-day management of the enterprise. Concurrently, the KCOA is committed to ensuring compliance with all pertinent legal and regulatory mandates. An overarching goal is to enhance shareholder value while simultaneously generating significant revenue for the benefit of the Tribe. This comprehensive responsibility encompasses the development and financing of the Tribe’s various endeavors in gaming, resort, and hospitality sectors.
Richard’s distinguished career began in the legal field, transitioning over time to a focus on academia. He dedicated thirteen years as a Legal and Systems Administrator at Norman & Edem, PLLC, based in Oklahoma City. In 2007, he joined the University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center where he has held various roles including Academic Technology Manager and Director, culminating in his current position as Assistant Vice Provost (AVP) for Academic Technology & Academic Media. In this role, Richard’s expertise is instrumental in ensuring the fiscal self-sufficiency of the Service Unit/small business through the implementation of effective business strategies. The services offered under his direction significantly enhance the university’s academic mission, aligning seamlessly with the five pillars outlined in the university’s Strategic Plan. Additionally, Mr. McMahon offers his guidance and expertise as an Advisor to the Native American Student Association (NASA) within the university’s Multicultural Student Organization.
In his commitment to promoting cultural awareness and heritage, Richard serves as Vice-Chairman of the Oklahoma City Powwow Club, a non-profit organization dedicated to Native American cultural preservation through service and educational initiatives. Furthermore, he holds a directorial position on the board of Red Earth, Inc. A proud citizen of the Kiowa Tribe, Richard’s engagement in these roles underscores his dedication to cultural stewardship and community service.
Marcy LaFerr
VICE CHAirMAN OF THE BOARD
Marcy LaFerr is serving her second term on the Kiowa Casino Operations Authority (KCOA) Board of Directors and holds the position of Vice Chairwoman. As a proud member of the Kiowa Tribe, she is deeply committed to protecting tribal sovereignty, preserving her Kiowa culture, and enhancing the quality of life for her fellow tribal members. In her role as Vice Chairwoman, Marcy leads the Strategic Planning Committee, guiding the development and execution of key initiatives that support long-term growth and success for Kiowa citizens. She is driven by her passion for serving her tribe and her dedication to creating a better future for the next generations.
Professionally, Marcy has been in leadership positions for over 30 years. This leadership has helped her in her current role in the Office of Cancer Research at OU Health Stephenson Cancer Center where she serves as the Cancer Center Support Grant (CCSG) Program Support and Team Engagement Administrator. In this capacity, she coordinates cancer research programs and memberships, supports senior leadership committees, and manages strategic initiatives. Additionally, she manages the project coordinator core, ensuring effective collaboration and communication across teams. She played an integral role in the successful renewal of their National Cancer Institute (NCI) Designated Cancer Center status in 2022.
Marcy is a recognized speaker on Women in Leadership, presenting at events nationwide. She is passionate about empowering future leaders and is actively involved in mentorship programs, helping to shape the next generation of leadership.
Beyond her professional work, Marcy is actively involved in her community. She serves as Secretary on the Oklahoma City Pow-Wow Club Board, is a Board Member of Nutmeg Sports, Inc.—a non-profit dedicated to bringing soccer and futsal to underserved communities—and is the Director of Special Services for Oklahoma Rush, the City of Moore’s soccer program.
In all her roles, Marcy’s leadership and dedication reflect her passion for making a lasting impact. Through her work with the Kiowa Tribe and her professional career, she continues to champion initiatives that benefit her community and future generations.
T.W. SHANNON
Kiowa Casino Operations Authority Director
T.W. Shannon holds a Bachelor of Arts in Communications from Cameron University and a Juris Doctorate from Oklahoma City University Law School. He served as the Speaker of the Oklahoma House of Representatives and chaired the transportation committee during his tenure.
With a background in public service and experience as CEO of Chickasaw Community Bank, T.W. brings a wealth of expertise to the gaming industry, ensuring the tribe’s success and growth.
ARTHUR ATTOCKNIE
Kiowa Casino Operations Authority Director
Arthur began his casino gaming career as a Slot Technician with his own tribe. After being mentored by several leaders within the Tribe and other entities, Arthur moved to continue his career as a Slot Technician with the St. Regis Mohawk Tribe of New York at Akwesasne Mohawk Casino located in Akwesasne Reservation, New York.
After moving back to be closer to his relatives, Arthur worked with International Game Technology, continuing in his Slot Technician role until he was recruited by the Pawnee Nation to be Gaming Manager for their largest casino. After a promotion to General Manager of a smaller facility, Arthur was appointed to be the Director for the Pawnee Nation Gaming Commission, the position he holds now for almost a decade. Among other responsibilities within the Pawnee Nation, Arthur is the Primary Regulator for Pawnee Nation Casinos which are managed by the Pawnee Tribal Development Corporation.
Since the pandemic, Arthur has also created and developed two privately owned businesses, including Lone Tipi Productions LLC, which is a video production business specializing in livestreaming, and helps in other capacities around his community and tribe. Most importantly, Arthur is a Licensed Minister and is currently serving as Associate Pastor at Cushing Indian Baptist Church. Arthur is married to his lovely wife Christina and they have two sons.
SHAUN WHITEHORSE
Kiowa Casino Operations Authority Director
Shaun Whitehorse is serving his first term on the Kiowa Casino Operations Authority (KCOA) Board of Directors and excited to work with such a talented team. Shaun is a proud member of the Kiowa Tribe as well as the O-Ho-Mah Lodge Society.
After earning a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration with a major in Management, Shaun began a career in Technology. Shaun is currently working as a Senior Network Engineer for General Datatech on projects for companies such as T-Mobile, US Cellular, 7-11 among others and enjoys his profession immensely.
Outside of work Shaun keeps busy with family trips, as well as a wide range of volunteering efforts. Some of these efforts include Treasurer for the Alumni Chapter of the University of Tulsa Sigma Nu Chapter, coaching his kid’s Dallas Stars Metro Hockey League teams and President of the Hexter Elementary Dads Club.
Shaun and his wife Linda reside in Old Lake Highlands, on the outskirts of Dallas, Texas with their daughter (Lily), Son (Matthew), dog (Austin) and two cats (Daisy and Peach).
