Former state Rep. Lisa Billy, shown speaking at the state Capitol in 2015, has been named secretary of Native American Affairs. [AP File Photo]

Stitt said Billy has been a "consistent and faithful representative for the people of Oklahoma."

Billy has served in the Chickasaw Nation Legislature since 2016 and previously served from 1996 to 2002.

Gov. Kevin Stitt on Wednesday named Lisa J. Billy, a Chickasaw Nation legislator and former state House representative, as secretary of Native American Affairs.

“She will bring her hard-work ethic and wealth of experience to the table in order to serve as an advisor to my administration and help foster strong partnerships between our tribal governments and the State of Oklahoma," Stitt said in a news release.

Billy served in the Oklahoma House from 2004 to 2016. She held various leadership roles during that time, including floor leader from 2014 to 2016, deputy whip from 2004 to 2008 and vice chair of the Republican Caucus from 2006 to 2008.

Billy formed the Native American Caucus in the Oklahoma Legislature in 2006. She has been recognized for her work on prison reform policies.

John Berrey, chairman of the Quapaw Tribe, said Billy is "absolutely the best possible choice" to represent all of the tribes in the state.