Dacoda Wahpekeche

Dacoda Wahpekeche is a reporter with KOCO 5 News, covering news in Oklahoma. He is passionate about his work and has a deep connection to the state, having grown up in Little Axe and attended both Northwestern Oklahoma State University and the University of Oklahoma. During his time at OU, Dacoda was involved in various journalism opportunities, including reporting on political events like Gov. Kevin Stitt's re-election campaign and tornado coverage around the university. He also covered Capitol Hill in DC with Gaylord News, focusing on Native American stories such as the upholding of the Indian Child Welfare Act. Dacoda had a unique opportunity to work with ICT, a news organization for indigenous people, where he reported on indigenous stories during significant events like the White House Tribal Nations Summit and Super Bowl LVII. In his free time, Dacoda enjoys golfing and supporting his favorite sports teams: the Oklahoma Sooners, Thunder, and Oklahoma State Cowboys. As a member of the Kickapoo Tribe of Oklahoma and a descendant of the Absentee Shawnee Tribe, he may bring a unique perspective to reporting on Native American-related issues. Dacoda is excited to be part of the KOCO family and can be reached at Dacoda.mcdowell-wahpekeche@hearst.com for story ideas.