2024 Top Forty Under 40

PRESIDENT

PUBLISHER

RYAN BINKLEY ANDY PENNINGTON

EDITORIAL

EXECUTIVE

DAVID HULEN

DHULEN@ADN COM

COVER AND DESIGN

ELEVATEALASKA.COM

LAYOUT

SALES MANAGER/ALASKA JOURNAL OF COMMERCE

JADA NOWLING@ALASKAJOURNAL COM

ACCOUNT MANAGER

MWASSER@ADN.COM RESTRADA@ADN.COM

CIRCULATION MANAGER

EACH YEAR THE ALASKA JOURNAL OF COMMERCE HONORS THE OUTSTANDING EFFORTS OF INDIVIDUAL ALASKANS IN THE PROFESSIONS AND THEIR COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT.

“TESSA” BALDWIN

Kristina Andrew

Economic Development Program Manager , Bristol Bay Native Association

Hometown:

Dillingham, AK

Current City:

Dillingham, AK

Education/Degrees

Bachelor of Arts in rural development

Highlight your community work.

Working for the state legislature, advocating for protection for Bristol Bay and creating locally driven economic opportunities in Bristol Bay that have meaningful change.

What has been your most rewarding community service?

Being involved and getting to know people in youth development and recovery programs.

What was your first job?

Cashier/barista at the Bristol Express

In your professional life, what project or achievement has been most fulfilling to you?

Creating the Ciulistet Emerging Leaders Program to help prepare young adults for a career in Bristol Bay leadership.

Briefly tell us about your family.

My parents are Lee Ann and Pete Andrew. I also have bonus parents, Chris Napoli and Rose Fisher. I have four brothers, all younger, and two children who are growing up too fast.

Name the person who influenced you the most. My AA sponsor, but that’s anonymous.

Favorite place in Alaska and why?

Beaches in Bristol Bay are so calming. What is your favorite pastime or hobby away from work?

Sewing, berry picking and putting up fish. If you could give your younger self advice, what would it be?

Take advantage of every opportunity you get.

“Don’t take life so seriously. Nobody makes it out alive.”

Hometown:

Dgheyay Kaq’ (Anchorage) and Nuk’elehitnu (Eagle River), AK

Current City:

Dgheyay Kaq’ (Anchorage), AK Education/Degrees

Bachelor of Science in recording arts, Full Sail University

Highlight your community work.

Mentoring emerging Indigenous filmmakers; instructor, Alaska Native Filmmakers Intensive; instructor, Native Media Makers during Elders and Youth; member of the Alaska Filming Initiative; Board of Directors, Identity Alaska. What has been your most rewarding community service?

I love working with youth in media workshops. Witnessing their eyes light up with the possibilities of video work is so fun. I love seeing them interview each other and build connections. They have such a unique voice and story from all over - it makes me feel like a proud auntie!

What was your first job?

I believe my first job was as an intern in the accounting department at CITC.

In your professional life, what project or achievement has been most fulfilling to you?

Starting my own film production company has been incredibly fulfilling. Through collaboration with like-minded clients and partners who share our native values and understanding, we collectively craft content that empowers and uplifts our community. I’m dedicated to portraying narratives through an Indigenous lens and perspective, ensuring they are accurate and respectful. I also enjoy mentoring Alaska Native filmmakers and providing hands-on experience on set and in the field. We have an abundance of beautiful stories to share!

Briefly tell us about your family.

I am the daughter of John and Rosa Sallee. On my father’s side, I’m Inupiaq, with roots in Kigiktaq (Shishmaref) and Sitnasuaq (Nome), and Mexican on my mother’s side, from Tepic, Nayarit. I am a sister to Ivan, Christian and John IV, and a proud mom to my pup, Dash.

Alexis Anoruk Sallee

Film Director/Producer, Inua Productions

Name the person who influenced you the most. I draw inspiration from the strong matriarchs in my family, starting with my grandmothers, Mary Sallee (Ahnangnatoguk) and Agripina Hernandez. They’ve instilled strength in the women they’ve raised, who continue their legacy.

Favorite place in Alaska and why?

On the beach at Fort Davis, just outside of Nome. I love being by the water, breathing in the coastal air and reflecting on the beautiful land and ocean. Great memories of camping, fishing, fireworks and bonfires.

What is your favorite pastime or hobby away from work?

Boating, fishing, shrimping, camping.

If you could give your younger self advice, what would it be?

Let go of judgment, especially on yourself, and take time to enjoy the moment.

Embrace self-compassion and understanding as you navigate through life’s journey.

“Remember that the Land carries stories, and so do you”

- Tasha Spillett-Sumner

Teressa “Tessa” Baldwin

City Manager, City of Kotzebue

Hometown:

Kotzebue, AK

Current City:

Kotzebue, AK

Education/Degrees

Bachelors of Arts, University of California, San Diego. Master’s in social work, Columbia University

Highlight your community work.

My background is in mental health therapy, where I worked mainly with women and children. I practiced for three years before going into public service positions. I worked as the public safety director for the Northwest Arctic Borough and then became City Manager. I still connect myself to mental health services by serving on the National Indian Child Welfare Association board of directors and working some weekends at the women’s shelter.

What has been your most rewarding community service?

My work at the women’s shelter has been the most rewarding as it allowed me to work directly with people in the community. What was your first job?

Legislative Fellow at the National Congress of American Indians

In your professional life, what project or achievement has been most fulfilling to you?

My most rewarding achievement in my professional life was my appointment by our seven-member City Council as the City of Kotzebue City Manager. It was humbling to be trusted and uplifted by a group of individuals who saw me as a leader who could bring our community forward.

Briefly tell us about your family.

My parents are Sarah Randall from Ambler, and Clyde Baldwin Jr. from Kiana. I grew up with strong female role models in my family, including my aanas (grandmothers), my sisters and several aunties that have invested in me.

Name the person who influenced you the most.

My mother Sarah Randall, and Aana Eva Baldwin Favorite place in Alaska and why?

Picking berries on the Kobuk River

What is your favorite pastime or hobby away from

Completing a reading list, going on solo traveling adventures and all types of fishing (ice fishing, dipnetting, fly-fishing)

If you could give your younger self advice, what

Be willing to do the hard work of self-reflection. We are all human and have things to work through, all that matters is that you are kind to others while doing your work!

“It is not the critic who counts, not the woman who points out how the strong woman stumbles or where the doer of deeds could have done them better. The credit belongs to the woman who is actually in the arena whose face is marred by dust and sweat and blood, who strives valiantly, who errs, who comes short again and again because there is no effort without error and shortcoming but who does actually strive to do the deeds who knows great enthusiasms. These great devotions spend herself in a worthy cause. Who at best knows in the end of triumph of high achievement and how at the worst, if she fails at lest she fails while daring greatly.”

- The Woman in the Arena, Brene Brown

Alyssa Bish 32

Vice President of Strategy and Impact, Volunteers of America (VOA) Alaska

Hometown:

Eagle River, AK

Current City: Anchorage, AK

Education/Degrees

Senior KeyMakers Leadership Development Program, Volunteers of America and Cornell University; Masters in Business Administration, University of Edinburgh; Catalyst for Nonprofit Excellence, The Foraker Group; Bachelor of Arts in international studies & history, University of Alaska Anchorage Highlight your community work.

I consider myself lucky that each day I am able to contribute to work that benefits our community. Outside of my day job, I have had the honor to volunteer with and/or serve on the board of many amazing organizations, including Trend Alaska Fashion Show, Anchorage School District, Alaska Dog & Puppy Rescue, Alaska Common Ground, Big Brothers Big Sisters of Alaska, United Way of Anchorage, Keys to Life and the Anchorage Chamber of Commerce.

What has been your most rewarding community service?

When I first started at VOA Alaska, it was common for us to be described as “Anchorage’s best kept secret,” a terrible thing for a youth-serving behavioral health nonprofit to be referred to as. We have turned the tide on this status through dedicated work on our branding, online presence and boots-on-the-ground community engagement. We are able to positively impact the lives of over 1,000 youth and families each year!

What was your first job?

At 16, I worked as a Courtesy Clerk at Carrs in Eagle River.

In your professional life, what project or achievement has been most fulfilling to you?

The opportunity to be an active part of the shift to VOA Alaska’s culture

in the past few years stands out for me. From the larger shifts to a workplace culture that have made the organization an overall more welcoming and supportive environment, to the smaller shifts that have seen more collaboration across programs and administrative functions, I am proud to be a member of the leadership team that has brought these changes to life.

Briefly tell us about your family.

I am blessed to have a wonderfully supportive family that includes grandparents, aunts, uncles and cousins who live on the East Coast, my parents, Blaine and Marcey, and brother, Ryan, who live here in Alaska, and my three golden fur-children, Poppy, Thor and Jack.

Name the person who influenced you the most.

It is hard to choose just one when two phenomenal women come to mind – my mom, Marcey Bish, and my supervisor, Julia Luey. My entire life, my mom has been a guiding light who has challenged me to embrace others with compassion and always be ready to roll up my sleeves to get the work done. In recent years, Julia has been formative in helping me find a healthier balance in life. She has provided an inspirational example of how to show up as an authentic, humble, visionary and passionate leader.

Favorite place in Alaska and why?

Homer. I love being near the water, and Homer offers a wonderful ocean retreat with plenty of amazing food, shops and activities to entertain year-round!

What is your favorite pastime or hobby away from work?

I have discovered a passion for an array of active “hobbies’’ that have helped me to regain my health. I like to attend group fitness classes at OrangeTheory, walk my pack of goldens at the dog park or run the trails in preparation for the

If you could give your younger self advice, what would

I would encourage my younger self to pause more and soak in the day-to-day occurrences of life as they come.

“There are good days and hard days for me – even now. Don’t let the hard days

- Sarah J. Maas

Jesse J. Bjorkman

State Senator,

Alaska State Legislature

Hometown:

Kingsford, MI

Current City: Nikiski, AK

Education/Degrees

B.A. in interdisciplinary social science: foreign relations and economics, Michigan State University Highlight your community work.

I have been a middle school and high school history teacher at Nikiski Middle/High School for 15 years. I have taught hunter education, including bow hunter education, with ADF&G for over a decade. I served Alaska’s Kenai Peninsula Chapter of Safari Club International from 2012-2022. Before taking my seat as a State Senator in 2023, I served on the Kenai Peninsula Borough Assembly from 2019-2023. What has been your most rewarding community service?

My most rewarding community service has been teaching dozens of youths about the outdoors. In 2012, I was proud to begin an extensive outdoor education middle school exploratory course at Nikiski Middle/High School with my colleague, Dylan Hooper. We take kids on an educational moose hunt through that program and in partnership with Alaska’s Kenai Chapter of Safari Club International. Kids learn about all parts of the hunting process, including moose biology and how they interact with their environment, as well as hunt planning and preparation, hunting techniques and tactics, and finally, how to take a moose from the field to fork.

What was your first job?

Grocery Stock Clerk at Monette’s IGAKingsford, MI

In your professional life, what project or achievement has been most fulfilling to you?

During my work as a teacher and policymaker, I am most proud of the fact that I continue to build meaningful relationships with the people I meet. I enjoy finding something that I can learn from almost everyone. Teaching inspiring lessons and passing legislation feels good, but knowing that I

am creating meaningful change for people along the way. Briefly tell us about your family.

I love to sport fish, hike and hunt with the catch of my life, Jamie, and our two kids, Blake (9) and Brinna (5). Name the person who influenced you the most. The person who has influenced me the most in my life is my beautifully inspirational wife, Jamie. She has always motivated me to do better and achieve more.

Favorite place in Alaska and why?

My favorite place in Alaska is in the mountains during fall.

What is your favorite pastime or hobby away from work?

I enjoy hunting, fishing and living in the great Alaska outdoors. It’s a great place to be!

If you could give your younger self advice, what would it be? Identify and respond to the positive parts of each personal interaction before paying any mind to the opposite. However, when people show you who they are, believe them the first time.

“Illegitimi non carborundum”

-

Gen Joe Stilwell

Anna Brawley

Owner (and) Assembly Member for West Anchorage, Tiny Birch Consulting

Hometown: Columbus, OH

Current City: Anchorage, AK

Education/Degrees

B.A. in history, Denison University; M.A. in social science, University of Chicago; MRP, regional planning, Cornell University; AICP Certified Planner

Highlight your community work. Since moving to Alaska in 2011, I have been involved in community planning, organizing and local governance work. I served on my community council boards and the board of NeighborWorks Alaska for nine years. In public service, I was first appointed to the Municipality’s Budget Advisory Commission, and then in 2023, I was elected to the Anchorage Assembly, representing District 3, West Anchorage. In my first term, I took on leadership roles in the Budget and Finance Committee and Housing Action Plan. I enjoy being a part of community events such as NSAA’s Ski for Women and volunteering for Anchorage Parks Department events like the Winter Solstice Festival and park clean-ups.

What has been your most rewarding community service?

While my first year on the Assembly has been a great service opportunity, the project that felt the most rewarding was hosting the pop-up event Anchorage Winter Market in February 2015, a community leadership project of NeighborWorks Alaska. Overnight, we transformed an empty car dealership at 13th and Gambell into a fun indoor market with art and craft vendors, live music, and outdoor games in the parking lot - even a flash mob opera performance!

What was your first job?

Shelving books at Columbus Public Library

In your professional life, what project or achievement has been most fulfilling to you?

In my former position as a project manager at Agnew::Beck Consulting, I had the opportunity to staff a 10-plus-year project, the Alaska Title 4 state alcohol licensing laws rewrite. From the first meeting in 2012, I worked with over 100 stakeholders to make comprehensive recommendations, support multiple

state bills that enacted changes - most recently, Senate Bill 9, passed in 2022 - and advise on implementation through regulations.

Briefly tell us about your family.

My partner James and I live in Turnagain with one teenager and two highly opinionated cats. James owns a small business in computer repair and IT, Alaska Computer Doctor.

Name the person who influenced you the most.

Many people come to mind. One big theme is that my most memorable teachers, from elementary to college, taught literature and the arts. Most were responsible for teaching that subject, but others brought art - visual, audio, and other media - into the classroom and connected it to history, culture and geography. I’ve been lucky to attend public schools that invest in arts education as a way for kids to connect with many cultures.

Favorite place in Alaska and why?

Whether it’s summer or winter, I love spending time in the woods at Bicentennial Park/BLM Campbell Tract. It’s just a short drive across town, and it’s quiet and peaceful.

What is your favorite pastime or hobby away from work?

In the summer months, I spend a lot of time gardening. In the winter, I like to cross-stitch.

If you could give your younger self advice, what would it be?

Take more risks. It takes more energy to build and maintain allies than it does to stand up to opposition.

“You were born. And so you’re free. So happy birthday.”

- Laurie Anderson

Samantha Buchanon

Alaska Waste Market Sector Leader, HDR Inc.

Hometown:

Anchorage, AK

Current City: Anchorage, AK

Education/Degrees

B.S. in civil engineering

Highlight your community work.

I volunteer to help with fundraising with the American Red Cross of Alaska, Pacific Northern Academy and the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention. What has been your most rewarding community service?

Volunteering on the ARCA Real Heroes Awards selection committee.

What was your first job?

I worked at CIRI Alaska Tourism, registering the company as a minority business. In your professional life, what project or achievement has been most fulfilling to you?

The most fulfilling achievement has been the relationships I’ve built with my clients and team.

Briefly tell us about your family. My family is amazing and extremely supportive of everything I do. I would not be where I am today without them. Name the person who influenced you the most. My parents.

Favorite place in Alaska and why?

The riverbank is my happy place. What is your favorite pastime or hobby away from work?

Fishing

If you could give your younger self advice, what would it be?

Don’t act like you think you should. Be your whole self, everywhere, around everyone, all the time.

31

“With a small dedicated group, there is nothing that cannot be accomplished”

- Ivan in Red (the movie)

Michael Dawn Daniels 34

Senior Rural Housing Manager, Rural Alaska Community Action Program (RurAL CAP)

Hometown: Clarksville, TN

Current City: Anchorage, AK

Education/Degrees

Doctor of Education, Trevecca Nazarene University. Master of Professional Studies & Strategic Leadership, Austin Peay State University. Bachelor’s in political science and legal studies, Austin Peay State University

Highlight your community work.

Proud member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority Inc., Alaska Alumnae Chapter, NAACP and Alaska Society of Human Resource Management

What has been your most rewarding community service?

The most rewarding form of community service involves supporting families needing housing. By assisting these families, we contribute to their well-being and create a positive impact within our community. Providing stable housing not only addresses a fundamental human need but also fosters a sense of security and hope for those facing housing challenges. What was your first job?

Fast Food Cashier at Burger King

In your professional life, what project or achievement has been most fulfilling to you?

In my professional experience, I have found the most rewarding projects to be those where I support families encountering challenges similar to the ones I encountered while growing up in my hometown. These families often reside in low-income communities, facing poverty and other economic disadvantages. My role involves providing technical assistance and support in whatever form it is needed. This will always be my most rewarding and fulfilling achievement. Briefly tell us about your family.

I am happily married to Paris. We have an incredible 13-yearold son named Levi. In 2021, we moved to this beautiful state. Name the person who influenced you the most.

My dad, Johnny, is the best human walking this earth. He has the heart and patience of a saint, and his genuineness is felt wherever he goes.

Favorite place in Alaska and why?

I’ve been fortunate to explore this beautiful state through my travels, but my favorite place will always be home. There’s something truly special about the comfort and familiarity of

going home each evening.

What is your favorite pastime or hobby away from work?

My favorite hobby includes crafting and anything that keeps me active and outdoors. If you could give your younger self advice, what would it be?

Embrace curiosity and continuous learning. Life is an ever-evolving journey, and the more you explore, the richer it becomes. Don’t fear failure; instead, consider it a stepping stone toward growth. Cherish relationships, invest time in meaningful connections, and remember that kindness and empathy go a long way.

“My mission in life is not merely to survive but to thrive, and to do so with some passion, some compassion, some humor and some style”

- Maya Angelou

A A R O N D A N I E L S O N

C h i e f o f P o l i c e a n d F i r e

C h i e f D a n i e l s o n Congratulations!

C h i e f A a r o n D a n i e l s o n ' s u n w a v e r i n g l e a d e r s h i p

a s C h i e f o f P o l i c e a n d F i r e a t T e d S t e v e n s

A n c h o r a g e I n t e r n a t i o n a l A i r p o r t e n s u r e s t h e

s a f e t y a n d s e c u r i t y o f a l l w h o p a s s t h r o u g h o u r

g a t e s . U n d e r h i s g u i d a n c e , t h e p o l i c e a n d f i r e

t e a m a t A N C c o n t i n u e s t o s e r v e a s a b e a c o n o f

s a f e t y a n d s e c u r i t y f o r o u r a v i a t i o n c o m m u n i t y

a n d t h e S t a t e o f A l a s k a .

C h i e f D a n i e l s o n ' s j o u r n e y i n p u b l i c s a f e t y

b e g a n i n 2 0 0 7 a s a n O f f i c e r a t F a i r b a n k s

I n t e r n a t i o n a l A i r p o r t b e f o r e h e b r o u g h t h i s e x p e r t i s e t o T e d S t e v e n s A n c h o r a g e

I n t e r n a t i o n a l A i r p o r t i n 2 0 2 1 . S i n c e a s s u m i n g t h e r o l e o f C h i e f o f P o l i c e a n d F i r e , h e h a s b e e n a n e x e m p l a r y l e a d e r , f o s t e r i n g a c u l t u r e o f d e d i c a t i o n t o p u b l i c s a f e t y w i t h i n t h e d e p a r t m e n t Congratulations to all of the Top Forty Under 40 recipients, and thank you, Chief, for your outstanding service and tireless dedication.

Class of 2024

Top Forty Under 40 Recipient

39 Aaron Danielson

Chief of Police and Fire,

Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport

Hometown:

Fairbanks, AK

Current City: Anchorage, AK

Education/Degrees

Bachelor’s in political science

What has been your most rewarding community service?

I serve on the Fairbanks Chamber of Commerce

Education and Workforce Development committee, working to improve education and teachers in our area and supporting workers’ and businesses’ ability to thrive and be successful for the betterment of our community.

What was your first job?

Soccer Ref

In your professional life, what project or achievement has been most fulfilling to you?

My work on and support of legislation that continued health care for families of law enforcement officers killed in the line of duty in Alaska. During my term as the PSEA president, we experienced too many tragedies of officers killed through violence. It took personal advocacy, community support and continued PSEA discussions with legislators over multiple sessions to ensure we as a state could make that commitment to support the survivors of those who gave all. Briefly tell us about your family

I have immediate family in the Anchorage and Eagle River areas: my dad and his wife, Rick and Bobbi Danielson; sister, Jenny and her wife Melissa; and niece and nephew, May and Laef. We frequently gather at our parent’s house to visit and catch up with other family and friends.

Name the person who influenced you the most.

Roger Stevener has served as an inspiration and mentor for me in my career. I worked alongside him at the Fairbanks Airport Police & Fire Department, where he served as an officer and then Deputy Chief with me. I benefitted from his insight, experience, friendship and approach to just about everything in both work and life. The example he set through his disarming humor, personal approach with people and how he strives to do right are a bar I will always be working to meet - and I will never be able to match his ability to tell a good story.

Favorite place in Alaska and why?

Chena Hot Springs: It’s a wonderful experience to sit in the hot springs, relaxing at subzero temperatures, where your

hair freezes while you are warm, and the northern lights dance above, just beyond the steam coming off the top of the

What is your favorite pastime or hobby away from work?

I’ve really started enjoying cycling the last few years, and I even have an indoor trainer set up in my garage for the winter. It’s a good way to wake up in the morning or ride away the stress after work while watching a show. The trail system in Anchorage has been great to explore on bike and get out, and I look forward to being part of a charity Clean Air ride in May. If you could give your younger self advice, what would it be?

Be confident and put yourself out there. Through hard work, sincerity and compassion, you can do everything you doubt that you can right now.

“Yesterday is not ours to recover, but tomorrow is ours to win or lose.”

- L.B.J.

Chase Edstrom 36

Managing Member, Edstrom Construction Co. LLC

Hometown: Palm Springs, CA

Current City: North Pole, AK

Education/Degrees: GED

Highlight your community work.

I do things randomly for people or organizations throughout Fairbanks and North Pole. We offer an $8,500 annual Scholarship to kids attending UAF who have been nominated by members of the community, we donate heating fuel to people, have helped pay rent, electric bills, etc. ... Things I feel will bring light to the people we are helping and show that there is a God. He loves them, and it’s proven by using someone like myself to show people just the slightest amount of mercy in a world that looks down on just about everyone. What has been your most rewarding community service?

I don’t have a grading scale for anything I do in the community. I also don’t feel it is a reward for myself. I’m not deserving of a lot of things in my life. Some people have great wealth and influence, power, etc., while others sleep in cardboard boxes on the side of streets. The only difference between these people is the geographical location where they happened to be born. For that reason, I don’t feel entitled to anything I have. I don’t want to make it sound like these things mean nothing to me; they just aren’t the reason I do what I do. I contribute to the community or to people in my community because I feel a responsibility to do so. I feel I am a steward of the money and possessions God has allowed me to have. I haven’t always proven to be responsible with those possessions, but I try my best. What was your first job?

I was a Grocery Bagger at the Safeway in North Pole.

In your professional life, what project or achievement has been most fulfilling to you?

The risk of starting Edstrom Construction Co. LLC, at the age of 22, in October 2010, when I had a full-time job with three years of year-round work lined up and full benefits, is pretty high up on that list. The idea seemed idiotic at the time; however, it’s proven to be one of the smartest decisions I’ve made, second only to marrying my wife. Briefly tell us about your family. I am blessed to have my wife, Kirsten, by my side, and

she has given me two beautiful and smart sons, Lyle and Noah. Her job is much harder than mine. My dad, Paul Edstrom, still lives in the Fairbanks North Star Borough. He has been in the construction industry all over the U.S. for almost six decades. My love for construction is rooted in my upbringing under his roof and all the projects and experiences. I had been blessed with a loving and smart dad. My mom, Kelli Grasso-Edstrom, is still in Fairbanks. Unfortunately, she suffered a subarachnoid hemorrhage about 14 years ago, and her life has never been the same. She’s still very upbeat and loves seeing her grandchildren, and is still an inspiration to me.

Name the person who influenced you the most.

Eric Gettinger

Favorite place in Alaska and why?

Chena Bend Golf Course, Fort Wainwright. I say this because I have memories that will last a lifetime of beers and golf being played with people I cherish, some of whom aren’t around anymore, and it brings me happiness to golf and remember those times. A very close second, if not a tie for first; I’d say Valdez because I have a ton of memories I cherish there as well, and continue to make more every year. What is your favorite pastime or hobby away from

Golf. By far, golf.

If you could give your younger self advice, what would it be?

I choose to be a hypocrite in this response. I would tell my younger self to keep my eyes on the Kingdom of God and all the rest will be given to you. Don’t get caught up in the world. Be a good person. Don’t do things for the approval of others, do things you think would make your Father in Heaven smile.

These aren’t principles I lived by for the majority of my life, but if I could go back and tell myself something, it would be that. I will make sure my children know this message very well.

“Truly, I tell you, if you have faith as small as a mustard seed, you can say to this mountain, ‘Move from here to there,’ and it will move. Nothing will be impossible for you.”

- Matthew 17:20

35 Kyle Foster

CEO, Eklutna Inc.

Hometown:

Sand Point, AK

Current City: Anchorage, AK

Education/Degrees

MBA

Highlight your community work.

Board of Directors at Arctic Barnabas Ministries

What has been your most rewarding community service?

I thoroughly enjoyed serving new fathers at the Community Pregnancy Center in Anchorage.

What was your first job?

Commercial fishing

In your professional life, what project or achievement has been most fulfilling to you?

I was able to support my wife as she launched her children’s nutritional show, Tito Time, on social media.

Briefly tell us about your family. Happily married.

Name the person who influenced you the most.

My grandfather.

Favorite place in Alaska and why?

The Shumagin Islands - for their untouched, natural, raw beauty.

What is your favorite pastime or hobby away from work?

Outdoor activities with family.

“Two things I ask of you, Lord; do not refuse me before I die: Keep falsehood and lies far from me; give me neither poverty nor riches, but give me only my daily bread. Otherwise, I may have too much and disown you and say, ‘Who is the Lord?’ Or I may become poor and steal and so dishonor the name of my God.”

- Proverbs 30:7-9.

Elizabeth “Dawn” Geest

Clinic Nurse Manager,

Walk-in Clinic, Alaska Native Tribal Health Consortium

Hometown:

Anchorage, AK

Current City: Anchorage, AK

Education/Degrees

MSN

Highlight your community work.

As a nurse, I have had the opportunity to participate in multiple community vaccine clinics and Naloxone kit-building events. I have spent much time with my daughters during their volleyball seasons. There’s travel, volunteering and fundraising throughout the year, for which I have had the opportunity to volunteer.

What has been your most rewarding community service?

#1 Being a nurse lead in the initial community-wide COVID-19 vaccination efforts in Anchorage. Providing that service to our community during a pandemic was very rewarding. #2 Adopting a family for Christmas. Knowing our department cared for a family in need during the holidays was also very rewarding.

What was your first job?

Cashier at the Arctic Roadrunner

In your professional life, what project or achievement has been most fulfilling to you?

My most fulfilling achievement has been building and expanding the Walk-in Clinic at ANTHC. Prior to this position, I worked in maternal child health for 13 years. Being a nurse leader, in a new to me specialty has been the most stimulating and exciting experience. I feel so thankful for the opportunities for growth in leadership and the autonomy to lead process improvements that improve patient care, as well as the health of our Alaska Native communities. Briefly tell us about your family.

Many generations of my family were born and raised in Alaska. My grandmother is Aleut and was born in Kodiak. My grandfather and my mother were born in Seward. Troy and I have been married for 20 years, and we have three amazing daughters. Our family is big; we love to be together and gather often. Together we enjoy all that Alaska offers: outdoor recreation, camping, hiking and biking.

Name the person who influenced you the most.

Many people have influenced my life and who I am today. My mom ,Cathy Watsjold, taught me the value of hard work and dedication. My grandfather, Stanley Watsjold, taught me the value of family and the power of showing up. My grandmother, Sallyann Watsjold, taught me the value of love and compassion. My husband, Troy Geest, has supported me without hesitation throughout the last 20+ years to do all the things I love.

Favorite place in Alaska and why?

Kennicott is my favorite place. It’s a small, abandoned copper mining town rich in Alaska history and also the beginning of my Alaska roots. My great-grandma was born in Kennicott in 1918. We have visited as a family. It’s a magical place, full of charm and beauty and surrounded by everything Alaska. What is your favorite pastime or hobby away from work?

My favorite thing to do is spend time at Nancy Lake. The lake is my happy place. I enjoy being there with family, gardening, gathering with friends, bonfires and being on the water.

The lake brings everyone together, and there’s nothing better.

If you could give your younger self advice, what would it be?

It’s okay to be out of your comfort zone. Be confident, and keep going. Take risks, or else you may never know what you are capable of. It’s okay to make mistakes, but learn from them and move on.

“Fight for the things that you care about, but do it in a way that will lead others to join you.”

- Ruth Bader Ginsburg

38 Lindsey Hajduk

Director of Community Engagement & External Affairs, NeighborWorks Alaska

Hometown:

Elmwood Park, IL

Current City: Anchorage, AK

Education/Degrees

M.A. in community development policy and practice, University of New Hampshire. B.S. in natural resources and environmental sciences, University of Illinois.

Highlight your community work.

NeighborWorks America Community Initiatives Advisory Committee, member; AMATS Bicycle and Pedestrian Advisory Committee, chair.

Past service: Spenard Community Council, president and secretary; Choosing Our Roots, host home volunteer; Girls Riding Into Tomorrow (GRIT), adult mentor; Anchorage Youth Advisory Commission, adult advisor; Bike Anchorage, board of directors

What has been your most rewarding community service?

I loved volunteering in the Girls Riding Into Tomorrow (GRIT) program, a bicycle mentorship program serving 12-13 year olds in Anchorage. Over the spring, we work to learn new skills, connect and find confidence and ultimately bikepack 65 miles over a weekend to an Eklutna Lake cabin. The best moment was supporting our final rider all weekend and ultimately watching her roll into her mother’s arms with proud tears of joy.

What was your first job?

I worked summers at my dad’s bicycle shop, Barnard’s Cyclery, selling bikes for all ages. Our family-owned bike shop has been around since 1911, and it’s where I learned a sense of community and belonging through biking.

In your professional life, what project or achievement has been most fulfilling to you?

In serving as the Anchorage Youth Development Coalition Director, we created a “Youth Matter” small grant program, and it’s still going strong. These youth-led projects focus on empowering youth to make positive impacts on their communities. This philosophy still guides me in my work today. Through NeighborWorks Alaska, I’m fortunate to support resident-led efforts to strengthen their neighborhoods. Our efforts to Reconnect

Fairview are about empowering residents to shape the future of the community and will have lasting impacts for years to come.

Briefly tell us about your family.

Husband, Jedediah; rescue pup, Ginkgo; parents, Greg and Vera Hajduk; sister, Kelly Hajduk with Ben Dahl and many cats; and sister, Teri with Daniel and best niece Aurelia Lentvogt.

Name the person who influenced you the most.

I have a core group of friends who have helped me grow into the person I am today. They support me, challenge me and love me; and they’ve shown me strength and resilience as they navigate their own lives so I can support, challenge and love on them too! They’re the best, and they know who they are to me.

Favorite place in Alaska and why?

Sea kayaking into Pedersen Lagoon in Kenai Fjords National Park. Picture a sunny day with calm, flat water. You wake up early with the high tide to see whales, birds and bears, oh my!

What is your favorite pastime or hobby away from work?

Playing in a marimba band called Knock on Wood! You’ll find us playing outside at Anchorage farmers markets this summer.

If you could give your younger self advice, what would it be?

Hold onto your curiosity and enthusiasm to find joy. These will guide you to be happy, build meaningful connections, and have fun!

“Change often starts with the smallest of whispers. Likeminded people building it up to a roar.”

- TJ Klune, from The House on the Cerulean Sea

Rebecca Hilton 38

CEO and President, Empowered Arts Alaska

Hometown: Yuba-Sutter, California

Current City: Anchorage, AK

Education/Degrees

Bachelor of Arts in political science, minor in theater, University of Alaska Anchorage. Associate of Arts in business, University of Phoenix.

Highlight your community work.

Alaska Thalassemia Awareness and Support Group - Founder; Anchorage Arts Alliance; Anchorage School District’s Academies of Anchorage Community Convening

- Parent & Family Engagement Tactic Team; Alaska Music Leaders Association; Anchorage School Business Partnerships; Girl Scouts of Alaska; Anchorage Economic Development Corporation; Anchorage Chamber of Commerce Young Professionals Group; Habitat for Humanity; Afterschool Alliance; National Association of Teachers of Singing Alaska.

What has been your most rewarding community service?

My involvement in the arts, where I’ve had the privilege to give back to the community in many meaningful ways. Music and dance, as the universal language, uniquely bring happiness to people’s lives. Whether teaching dance, performing with my band at local charity events, or singing the National Anthem at gatherings that unite the community.

What was your first job?

My first job was as a barista.

In your professional life, what project or achievement has been most fulfilling to you?

Recently, I choreographed a dance piece for the students participating in Empowered Arts Alaska’s after-school dance program at Dr. Etheldra Davis Fairview Elementary School. They showcased their talents at the Lights on After School event, celebrating after-school programs across Alaska. Their excitement performing for their community and interacting with distinguished guests, including Senator Lisa Murkowski, was gratifying. The accomplishment and happiness on the students’ faces affirmed that after-school programs provide

safe learning environments and foster resilience

Briefly tell us about your family.

My family is primarily based in California. I’m the eldest of three siblings. I have the joy of raising two wonderful daughters.

Name the person who influenced you the

My grandma, whom I was named after, was originally from Thailand and journied to the U.S. to create a better life for herself and my mother. Despite English not being her first language, my grandmother displayed resilience and determination. She single-handedly raised my mom in a foreign land, but she also epitomized the American dream by successfully opening and managing several small businesses. Her strength, perseverance and unwavering spirit have inspired me greatly, shaping my values and outlook on

Favorite place in Alaska and why?

Home is where the heart is! My favorite place in Alaska is in my backyard, where I can look at the beautiful snow-covered Chugach mountain range and the playground and trampoline where

What is your favorite pastime or hobby away

Performing with my band Velvet LA LA and spending quality play time with my puppy, Lana

If you could give your younger self advice, what would it be?

It’s okay to be different. Embrace your individuality and passions, for they are what define you. Also, remember, this journey is yours alone; prioritize your path and stay true to yourself.

“Real change, enduring change, happens one step at a time.”

- Ruth Bader Ginsburg

Anna Hoover

Artist/Filmmaker, Anna Hoover LLC

Hometown:

Grapeview, WA and Egegik, AK

Current City: Anchorage, AK

Education/Degrees

Master of Communications in Indigenous documentary filmmaking. Master of Arts in Native American art history.

What has been your most rewarding community service?

My most rewarding community service has come from organizing Native Arts workshops across the state. There is no match to the feeling of watching someone connect with a part of their culture they weren’t previously aware of.

What was your first job?

My first job was as a deckhand on my family’s commercial salmon fishing gillnetter out of Bristol Bay.

In your professional life, what project or achievement has been most fulfilling to you?

Working with my community to protect Bristol Bay from the Pebble Mine has been one of the most fulfilling acts of my life.

Briefly tell us about your family.

My grandmother Annie Serakovikoff hails from Unga Island in the Aleutians. My father, John Hoover, grew up in Cordova, and my mother’s side emigrated from Norway.

Name the person who influenced you the most, Canadian Nuu-chah-nuulth master carver and artist Hyacinth Joe David has been and continues to be a major inspiration. Favorite place in Alaska and why?

My summer residence Egegik is one of my favorite places on the planet. The familiar sights, smells, sounds, walking paths and Honda trails I have committed to memory will always feel like home.

What is your favorite pastime or hobby away from work? I love spending time laughing and learning new things with my daughter.

If you could give your younger self advice, what would it be?

Progress over perfection.

37

Hometown: Anchorage, AK

Current City: Juneau, AK

Education/Degrees

Crystal Jackson

Senior Manager, Customer Experience and Diversity, Equity & Inclusion, GCI

Briefly tell us about your family.

Bachelor of Business Administration Marketing

Highlight your community work.

Since late 2020, I have been a board member of NAMI Juneau, a volunteer suicide prevention trainer of QPR for Juneau Suicide Prevention Coalition, and a Big Brothers Big Sisters volunteer since 2022.

What has been your most rewarding community service?

My most rewarding community service has been everything I can do to positively impact the lives of Alaskans from all walks of life, both by providing free and accessible suicide prevention training and becoming a mentor to Indigenous youth. No matter how small these things can feel in my day-to-day, I am reminded that these moments create opportunities for greater ripple effects on the community.

What was your first job?

Tour Guide on the Alaska Railroad

In your professional life, what project or achievement has been most fulfilling to you?

I am most proud of the development of several new business resource groups (BRGs) at GCI. Since the pandemic, when we were able to pivot to a distributed workforce model quickly, the need for social connections and inclusive environments was at an all-time high. By creating a structure for developing BRGs, I’ve seen so many more employees feel safer leading and taking risks, sharing stories, and being more of their authentic selves. This is what fills my cup the most.

My biological mother is from Nome, and my biological father is from Ohio. I am the oldest of four children and grew up in an Air Force family, traveling worldwide. I am very close with my aunt and my Oma. My husband and I have two dogs, Leon and Jean-Claude.

Name the person who influenced you the most.

Cheesy or not, my husband, Jake. His influence on me has been immeasurable, from cheering me on to keep going with my wild art-making marathons to taking the form of an effective sounding board in late evenings. I have been able to freely challenge myself more, take more risks, evaluate more failures and try things again with more fervor.

Favorite place in Alaska and why?

This would be either Sunshine Cove, Juneau, because it’s beautiful, has starfish hanging around and is off the network, or Moose’s Tooth because I’m a faithful fan of

What is your favorite pastime or hobby away from

I have too many to pick! Lately, my go-to has been painting pets with alcohol inks, beading with Indigenous materials, watching and playing hockey, and riding my One Wheel around town.

If you could give your younger self advice, what would it be?

Listen to yourself and your heart first. Be brave, and just know that whatever you feel in your seemingly illogical heart is a real thing to act on. What happens next will always be something to learn from. Also, steer clear of gluten sooner.

“If you think you’re too small to make a difference, try sleeping with a mosquito.”

- Dalai Lama

34 Lindsey Kato

Director, Division of Public Health, State of Alaska, Dept. of Health

Hometown: Juneau, AK

Current City: Juneau, AK

Education/Degrees

Bachelor of Science in public health with a concentration in health promotion and behavior, Oregon State University. Master of Public Health in epidemiology, Colorado School of Public Health. Highlight your community work.

I am an assistant coach for the Juneau Douglas High School Women’s soccer team. After losing a loved one to suicide, I became passionate about the mental health and wellness of Alaskans and how that impacts communities. I’ve coordinated the Juneau Suicide Prevention Coalition, served on the Board of Directors for the Juneau Alliance for Mental Health, Inc. (JAMHI), was an active member in the Southeast Alaska Regional Health Consortium (SEARHC) suicide prevention task force, as well as the University of Alaska Southeast’s Wellness Coalition.

What has been your most rewarding community service?

Each time you connect with and support your community I think it’s rewarding, so it’s difficult to choose one.

What was your first job?

Assisted a local artist in her summer art classes for kids.

In your professional life, what project or achievement has been most fulfilling to you?

The current job that I have is by far the largest and most fulfilling achievement of my life thus far.

Serving my state and Alaskans in this way is an honor and a dream come true. I get the opportunity to work across so many health and safety issues that impact Alaskans.

Briefly tell us about your family.

My parents, Bruce Kato and Patty Owen, are the foundation of my family. My mom’s family came from Norway by way of Canada, and my mom graduated from the same

high school in Juneau as me. My dad’s family came from Japan to California. Both sides, have so much history and culture. During WWII, my grandmother was stuck in Japan as an interpreter for the U.S. Army, while my grandfather and his family were interned in various camps across the country.

I have four sisters, and I was raised in a small community surrounded by many second families, aunties and uncles.

Name the person who influenced you the most.

My mother worked in public health all my life. Some of my early memories are of going to work with her, whether to a community health fair or sitting in her office helping her stuff envelopes for school health surveys. I knew this was what I wanted to do. She instilled in me not just the work itself but an entire viewpoint of prevention and population health.

Favorite place in Alaska and why?

Lingít Aaní, Áakʼw Ḵwáan territory - the place I am lucky to call home. I have yet to visit anywhere that compares to home on a sunny day. What is your favorite pastime or hobby away from work?

My family’s animal rescue in La Penita, Mexico. It is my happy place to be there with all our animals, including my horses. I equally love spending time at home with my dogs and my rock and love, Jordan Coronell.

If you could give your younger self advice, what would it be?

It’s the same advice that I would give myself and anyone else today - love yourself.

“Shoot for the moon, because even if you miss, you’ll land among the stars.”

- 5th-grade graduation ceremony; Les Brown

Darren Kessler 39

Division Transportation Manager,

Odyssey

Logistics & Technology

Hometown:

Anchorage, AK

Current City: Wasilla, AK

Education/Degrees

High school diploma, Service High School. Graduate of the Center for Employment Education, 2005. Commercial Driver License, class A.

Highlight your community work.

I work with young adults to provide them with employment opportunities in the transportation sector of Alaska.

What has been your most rewarding community service?

Helping young adults with employment from Covenant House.

What was your first job?

McDonald’s

In your professional life, what project or achievement has been most fulfilling to you?

Becoming the President of the Alaska Trucking Association

Briefly tell us about your family.

Father, Denis Kessler; late mother, Shawn Kessler; and brother, David Kessler. Name the person who influenced you the most. My father, Dennis Kessler.

Favorite place in Alaska and why?

Homer. Kachemak Bay’s beauty is unrivaled, and the people in Homer are amazing.

What is your favorite pastime or hobby away from work?

Fishing and camping.

If you could give your younger self advice, what would it be?

Don’t let assumptions bring you to a conclusion.

“The important thing is not to stop questioning. Curiosity has its reason for existing.”

- Albert Einstein

37 Megan Knutson

Clinical Documentation Integrity Specialist, Alaska Native Tribal Health Consortium

Hometown: Lawrence, KS

Current City: Palmer, AK

Education/Degrees: Bachelor of Nursing.

Master of Nursing Education.

Highlight your community work.

I have volunteered with a few different groups but have spent much of the last year volunteering my time with the Elks Lodge #1842 in Palmer and with the Fur Rondy Royalty group in Anchorage. I have helped with everything from planning events to running social media accounts, securing sponsorships, creating products for print, chaperoning activities, and cooking and serving meals. During the height of the pandemic, I had the opportunity to volunteer with my coworkers at the vaccination clinics provided by the Department of Health.

What has been your most rewarding community service?

Some of the most rewarding community service I have participated in has been with any of the children’s programs at the Elks Lodge, providing vaccines at the free clinics during COVID-19 or volunteering with the Challenge Alaska Gala. I like to try to focus on groups that provide opportunities or necessities to different populations.

What was your first job?

My first job was at a little paint-yourown ceramics shop. My job was refilling glazes, cleaning brushes and loading the kiln.

In your professional life, what project or achievement has been most fulfilling to you?

In my professional life, completing my master’s has been one of my most fulfilling achievements. I was enrolled in a program that allowed me to work at my own pace. I was worried I would fall behind or complete it slower than I wanted because I was working a mix of administrative day shifts as the Critical Care Coordinator and night shifts

on the floor as a charge nurse in the ICU at the time. I was able to buckle down and finish my school work faster than I had planned and could graduate a semester early, much to my surprise. Since finishing that degree, several doors have opened to me in the health care field.

Briefly tell us about your family.

My husband, Adam, and I have two dogs, Peyton and Cooper, and a cat, Gizmo, and are the cool aunt and uncle to 10 nieces and nephews.

Name the person who influenced you the most.

I’m not sure many people will say a cartoon influenced them, but I looked up to Lisa Simpson. She was fair, open-minded, smart, true to herself, in touch with her emotions, a feminist, and always fought for what was right. I always felt like she figured out who she was and just stuck with it because being true to herself was more important than being popular with everyone. She also played a mean saxophone, which may or may not have influenced my decision to pursue music for so much of my life.

Favorite place in Alaska and why?

My favorite place in Alaska is Homer. I love the small-town vibes, the art and music scene, and being right on the water.

What is your favorite pastime or hobby away from work?

I take many photos, so while I enjoy many hobbies away from work, photography is probably my favorite. I love doing portraits and catching candid shots of our friends and family.

If you could give your younger self advice, what

Be confident and stop worrying about what other people think of you. Take risks, create boundaries and learn to

“Don’t let this darkness fool you. All lights turned off can be turned on.”

- Noah Kahan

Hometown: Kercove, Macedonia

Current City: Anchorage, AK

Education/Degrees

Bachelor of Business Administration in accounting Highlight your community work.

I have done community service in the following areas: Founding Member of the KPMG UAA Accounting Scholarship Program, Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA), State and Local Municipal Government Political Campaigns, Albanian Community of Alaska Earthquake Relief Fund, Volunteer for subsistence whaling festivities in Utqiagvik, Volunteer for Habitat for Humanity.

What has been your most rewarding community service?

I’ve been involved in various initiatives, notably establishing the KPMG UAA Accounting Scholarship Program and volunteering for the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance Program. During college, I balanced two full-time jobs while taking a heavy course load to ease the financial burden on my parents and forge my own path. The scholarship program aims to support accounting majors in need, while volunteering for VITA allowed me to assist rural Alaskan communities with tax preparation, resulting in over $6 million in refunds for local families.

What was your first job?

I worked in my mom’s family furniture store when I was 8; during the summer months, I helped my relatives assemble and install bedroom furniture sets. At 13, I raised money by selling coupon books for the Boys and Girls Club. This was my first U.S. job.

In your professional life, what project or achievement has been most fulfilling to you?

In my years of service, I’ve overseen all aspects of the North Slope Borough’s finances and secured its financial future. Notable achievements include issuing over $1 billion in bonds for capital projects and doubling the operating budget through SB138. Additionally, I spearheaded debt restructuring, resulting in record-low debt, and implemented fiscal and investment policies that fueled the growth of the Permanent Fund Corpus to a billion dollars in under five years.

Briefly tell us about your family.

Proud son of Shemshedin and Ljutvije Limani, brother to Burim Limani, and loving husband to my lifelong partner, Prparime Limani. I cherish my role as the world’s

Fadil Limani

Deputy Commissioner, State of Alaska Department of Revenue

greatest dad to Andolina, Adelita and Aldion Limani, and as a loving uncle to Dionisa Limani.

Ky

Name the person who influenced you the most. My parents, particularly my father, have been the bedrock of my well-being and the driving force behind my success. Despite facing immense challenges in their own lives, they sacrificed greatly to provide my brother and me with better opportunities. Arriving in the U.S. at 11 years old, I was initially lost and unfamiliar with the language and culture. Yet, witnessing my father’s tireless work ethic motivated me to strive for something meaningful in my new life. I was determined to honor them by graduating from college and excelling in my career, knowing that their unwavering support made it all possible. This award is not just for me but a tribute to my loving parents and family, who deserve all the credit and recognition.

Favorite place in Alaska and why?

For 15 years, I’ve immersed myself in Utqiagvik and the North Slope villages, deeply appreciating the Inupiaq culture and their subsistence lifestyle. Participating in whaling festivities, celebrating successful seasons with singing, dancing and sharing harvests, including the blanket toss, has been a profound honor. These cultural values resonate with my Albanian upbringing, forging a deep connection across diverse traditions. What is your favorite pastime or hobby away from work?

Quality time with my wife and kids hiking and playing basketball and soccer. I enjoy traveling and exploring the world, learning about different cultures and histories, trying new foods and meeting new people.

If you could give your younger self advice, what would it be?

Develop a strong work ethic, as it’s the key to success, and hard work will never fail you. Believe in yourself and your abilities, and never let others dictate your journey. The only limitations to achieving your goals in life are those you set upon yourself. Lead with integrity and accountability, and never compromise such principles. Don’t be afraid to embark on a journey of your own and be a trailblazer on your path to success.

“S’jemi as turq as kaure Mos e thoni kete kurre S’jemi greke as bullgare Jemi vetem SHQIPETARE

emer na jep nder, Pa san duhet te tjere, Kemi gjuhezen tone Zoti’I madh na e ka

- Naim Frasheri

Jennifer Loofbourrow

Founder/Owner, Alpine Fit

Hometown:

Niagara-On-The-Lake, Ontario, Canada, and Anchorage, AK

Current City: Anchorage, AK

Education/Degrees

Bachelor of Science in chemistry and commerce. Continuing education in textile fundamentals, as well as some graduatelevel MBA classes through University of Alaska Fairbanks.

Highlight your community work. Presently my community work revolves around lifting up and supporting the development of womanowned businesses and women in leadership and entrepreneurial roles in Alaska. I have worked to organize gatherings of women business owners and women leaders in the outdoor industry and outdoor recreation economy in Alaska to strengthen our abilities to do our work and grow together.

What has been your most rewarding community service?

Establishing strong person-to-person relationships among some women-owned and women-led organizations to share challenges and successes, learn from one another and grow stronger in supporting one another. Additionally, during the early months of the COVID-19 pandemic, my business and team members were able to use our skills and equipment in our sewing manufacturing space to make thousands of face masks when they were in desperately short supply globally, and specifically in our remote corner of the country! We made something that made a difference, weathered the storm, and kept our team employed. I am very proud of the work we did to produce thousands of face masks and to work with State and medical professionals to get substitute medical-grade face masks made for essential workers during that straining time.

What was your first job?

Delivered newspapers and babysat, then bussed at a very fancy hotel restaurant.

In your professional life, what project or achievement has been most fulfilling to you?

Creating a business that is part of the community and a

part of peoples’ lives.

Briefly tell us about your family.

I have two kids, a daughter just turning 10 and a son just turning 12. I have a husband, Hale, and we have a husky retriever dog named Willow, who loves to be out in the mountains just as much as we do.

Name the person who influenced you the most.

My late grandmother, Flora, whom I called Nana, recently passed away at the age of 98. She created what she wanted for herself, endured incredible hardship, including serving in an active war zone in London during World War II, and always saw the silver lining in any challenge. She introduced me to adventuring in the wilderness and celebrating the beauty of being outside in nature.

Favorite place in Alaska and why?

The outer coast of Southeast Alaska. Tall forest-covered mountains, teal, deep waters, natural hot springs, fascinating inter-tidal zones, and quiet, rugged beaches. What’s not to love?!

What is your favorite pastime or hobby away from work?

Being outside on an adventure, long or short, alone or with family.

If you could give your younger self advice, what would it be?

Start where you are! Everyone is just a human being doing the best they can.

“Relationships aren’t 50/50, they are 110/110.”

- My grandmother “Nana” Flora McLennan Wissenz

Josh Louwerse 39

Directort of Statewide Initiatives, Covenant House Alaska

Hometown: Orange City, IA

Current City: Anchorage, AK

Education/Degrees

B.A. in theology, Dordt University in Massachusetts. M.A. in global urban leadership, Blake Graduate University.

Highlight your community work.

My community work centers on aiding those affected by homelessness and trafficking. Beginning as a Youth Pastor, I served at Crosspoint Community Church and Parachutes Teen Club. I volunteered at Downtown Soup Kitchen, Homeless Connect, leading to my role at Covenant House Alaska since 2012. Here, I’ve managed programs and now focus on statewide youth services, homelessness prevention and systems reform to support vulnerable youth.

What has been your most rewarding community service?

Since relocating to Alaska, the most fulfilling aspect of my work has been accompanying young individuals through their toughest challenges. Being entrusted with their stories of adversity is a profound privilege, offering hope amidst despair. Witnessing and respecting their pain is essential for their journey towards healing, stability and eventual joy.

What was your first job?

After school, At the age of 12, I worked with my dad. He was a butcher at an Old-World Dutch meat market. I cleaned the butchering room and all the meat processing machines before closing each day.

In your professional life, what project or achievement has been most fulfilling to you?

I take immense pride in my five-year tenure as the Director of Youth Engagement at Covenant House Alaska, where I led outreach and shelter services, supporting youth and staff. Despite the challenges inherent in youth-facing roles, particularly in crisis response, I’m proud of our progress in enhancing our services year after year under my leadership. While the role was demanding and took a toll on my family and me, it remains my most rewarding career experience.

Briefly tell us about your family.

I’ve been married to Jessica Louwerse, my college sweetheart, for 17 years. After meeting in Iowa, we moved to Alaska in 2007. Jessica is deeply involved in

community initiatives, particularly education advocacy. We’re proud parents to Ava, who someday wants to be mayor or president, and Evan, who wants to be a professional athlete and live alone with his pets someday. Our extended family spans Iowa and Minnesota, and two of my siblings are now raising families here in Alaska. And our close-knit circle of friends in Alaska is like family to us. Name the person who influenced you the most.

I have had many people who have supported, mentored and coached me over the years, and I am grateful to all of them. Yet, it’s the young individuals I’ve assisted who’ve profoundly impacted me. They have taught me how to persevere in the face of unfathomable hardship, to find joy in the simple things and to see hope and possibility where others see none.

Favorite place in Alaska and why?

The mouth of the Kenai River in July on a clear, calm, sunny day. It is here that I am truly at peace.

What is your favorite pastime or hobby away from work?

I love to cook for myself, my family, my friends, acquaintances and strangers. Cooking allows me to bring together something I love to do and a way I can provide for and show love to others. If you could give your younger self advice, what would it be?

Do not avoid feeling any of your feelings. To be fully human is to feel the full array of your emotions. If you try to dull the pain, you will dull the joy in the process. If you feel the pain, you will also be able to feel the joy.

“Hope, on the one hand, is an absurdity too embarrassing to speak about, for it flies in the face of all those claims we have been told are facts. Hope is the refusal to accept the reading of reality which is the majority opinion; and one does that only at great political and existential

- Walter Brueggemann

34 Melanie Lucas-Conwell

Director,

Municipality of Anchorage - 49th State Angel Fund

Hometown: Paris, France

Current City: Anchorage, AK

Education/Degrees

M.B.A. in sustainable finance, Presidio Graduate School. B.A. in internal relations, University of San Diego. Certificate in energy innovations and emerging tech, Stanford University.

Highlight your community work.

I serve on Health TIE and Alaska World Affairs Council boards and the Mayor’s Anchorage Economic Revitalization and Diversification Advisory Committee. I am an honorary Commander for the Alaska Air National Guard 176th Wing’s MOF Squadron. I help with the JBER Arctic Spark Innovation Lab, volunteer with Junior Achievement of Alaska and donate blood quarterly at the Alaska Blood Bank.

What has been your most rewarding community service?

Teaching financial literacy to kids thanks to Junior Achievement and seeing them understand the difference between debit and credit cards!

What was your first job?

Inputting contact info from business cards into my parents’ Palm Pilots - a penny per card! Growing up, whenever I thought I wanted to have a certain career, my parents found internships for me in that field. That’s how, at age 14, I ruled out being a veterinarian. My first “real” job was as a YMCA lifeguard when we moved to California. In your professional life, what project or achievement has been most fulfilling to you?

Transitioning from the private sector to government was unexpected, but leading two programs directly impacting our community’s economy is an immense honor. Spearheading the Alaska C-PACER program, initiated in 2020, has been particularly rewarding. Within a year, we launched the program, secured State Statute amendments for eligibility expansion, and closed our first loans in 2022. By 2023, we relaunched the program,

assisting other jurisdictions in similar initiatives, resulting in multi-million dollar loans. These loans significantly reduce energy consumption and bolster commercial building resilience, ultimately enhancing our quality of life and work in Anchorage and Alaska. Serving in this capacity is a privilege and a way to give back to our community.

Briefly tell us about your family.

I’m marrying Liam Zsolt this June, and we have a cute “Bethel Special” mutt - Charlemagne. The LuCon Clan is small but mighty: My parents now live in Sonoma, and I have three amazing younger sisters, Caroline, Colette and Geneviève. Name the person who influenced you the most.

My parents, for different reasons. My dad, Frédéric, has always been an entrepreneur and has built his current company, Growth Resources Institute, by mixing his early days in computer engineering, consulting business, and Ph.D. in organizational behavior. My mom Susan’s professional career has shown me that women can break the glass ceiling with patience, wit and a strong support system.

Favorite place in Alaska and why?

Resurrection Bay on our sailboat, The Wild Thing. There’s nothing more peaceful than being on the water and surrounded by Alaska nature, away from civilization! What is your favorite pastime or hobby away from

Downhill skiing, racing our sailboat with the Seward Yacht Club, backpacking, hiking, dipnetting, reading great historical fiction and rowing with my mom when I visit. If you could give your younger self advice, what would it

Try new things often, and don’t worry as much about what others think. Find comfort in discomfort; that’s where growth happens. Ask for help and support. Life is short, so have fun!

“Life

is too short to wake up in the morning with regrets. (...) Nobody said it would be easy. They just promised it would be worth it.”

- Dr. Seuss

Jennifer McConnel

HR Program Manager | People Strategies and Solutions, Providence

Hometown:

Redford, MI and North Pole, AK

Current City:

Girdwood, AK

Education/Degrees

M.B.A. with an emphasis in business intelligence and data analytics, UAA. B.A. in political science, UAF. A.A. in paralegal studies, UAF.

Highlight your community work.

Coaching women’s mountain biking in the greater Anchorage area, including PowderHound Ski and Bike Shop’s Boobs Over Bars summer program and Alaska Labor Relations Agency Board Member.

What has been your most rewarding community service?

Coaching women’s mountain biking in Alaska and the Lower 48 and volunteering with Catholic Social Services Clare House. Helping women discover what they are capable of by breaking through in mountain bike skill development and helping women discover what skills and abilities they don’t realize they have through mentoring and resume building is intrinsically rewarding. I love to empower others.

What was your first job?

Data Entry Specialist, North Star Volunteer Fire Department, North Pole, Alaska

In your professional life, what project or achievement has been most fulfilling to you?

Partnering with Providence Kodiak Island Medical Center leadership and the Alaska Medical Employees Association to help build positive labor-management relations.

Designing a three-tiered student employment model for UAA to transform the undergraduate on-campus student employment experience into a high-impact practice.

Briefly tell us about your family.

I have two younger sisters, a younger brother, two older half-brothers and one older half-sister. My husband, my siblings, their children and their spouses are some of my best friends. They inspire, support and adventure with me. Most work, live and play in Alaska. So do my parents.

Name the person who influenced you the most. Paula Harrison, MBA, SPHR

Favorite place in Alaska and why?

Kodiak Island during the summer. Kodiak has everything an outdoor Alaskan loves: mountains for hiking, biking and exploring, the ocean for fishing, beachcombing, kayaking and your own space with friendly neighbors.

What is your favorite pastime or hobby away from work?

Biking across Alaska. Alaska has yearround biking opportunities with hundreds of miles of gravel roads, extensive sanctioned and unsanctioned trail networks, low tree lines on mountains for truly adventurous days, and frozen rivers and lakes for winter exploring.

If you could give your younger self advice, what would it be?

Don’t be afraid to take risks or fail.

“Be the change you want to see in the world.”

- Mahatma Gandhi

Congratulations Anna Hoover: A Visionary Among Us

Nudlaghi Leadership InstituteSilver Salmon Camp - Left Brain, Right Brain civic dialogue group proudly honors Anna Hoover, named to the Alaska Journal of Commerce’s 2024 Top 40 Under 40. Anna Hoover (Unaangax) exemplifies the essence of Alaska, deeply intertwined with her culture, community, and the natural world. An acclaimed artist, filmmaker, writer, and academic, her work champions environmental care, Indigenous rights, and cultural heritage.

Holding master’s degrees in Native American art history and Indigenous documentary filmmaking from the University of Washington, Anna’s contributions elevate Alaska’s Native narratives globally. Her leadership at Chugach Alaska

Corporation and through her nonprofit, First Light Alaska, Inc., underscores her dedication to economic growth and cultural exchange.

As an esteemed educator, Anna’s influence extends to nurturing the next wave of Indigenous artists and leaders. Join us in celebrating Anna’s remarkable achievements and unwavering commitment.

Thank You, Anna, for Paving the Way! Curtis, Diane, Erec, Herb, Jess, Larry, Namee, Nicholas and Sheri

Jennifer McConnel Tianna McGee

Your

Thank you for your service to Alaskans.

Darren Kes s ler Transpor tation Manage r

Hometown:

La Grande, OR

Current City: Anchorage, AK

Education/Degrees

Eastern Oregon University, Western Governors University, IAP Career College, The National Society of Leadership and Success (NSLS) inducted member, Certified Death Doula

Highlight your community work.

I support those in the Anchorage community experiencing homelessness, support the Heart Gallery of Alaska mobile gallery and lead missionaries from Anchorage to Kenya. What has been your most rewarding community service?

Twelve years ago, my husband and I questioned what we should do for Thanksgiving. We had no place to go, and it didn’t make sense for us to cook an entire Thanksgiving meal for just the two of us. Instead of making a meal for ourselves, we decided to make a meal and hand it out to individuals in Anchorage who were experiencing homelessness and maybe did not want to or could not make the trek to a facility to receive a meal. This became a regular tradition for us. We have been blessed to have different people join us and participate through the years. We hand out 70-80 plates of food - traditional Thanksgiving meal, turkey, rolls, stuffing, green beans and a dessert. We have experienced some of the most incredible humans and have been humbled and blessed by the experience.

What was your first job?

Elderly caregiving was my first job. My mother owned and operated an elderly care home, and I grew up spending a vast amount of time there. From a young age, I watched and learned as my mother cared for the residents. Once I was old enough to be employed, I began working as a caregiver at my mother’s facility. This experience and the time I spent with the residents shaped my life and developed a deep calling to care for the most vulnerable among us.

In your professional life, what project or achievement has been most fulfilling to you?

I have led and collaborated on many projects and bodies of work that have been incredibly fulfilling. However, my most fulfilling achievement has been developing and leading exceptional teams of individuals. I have learned so much and

Tianna McGee

Director of Talent Engagement and Development, Providence

been inspired by the individuals I have led throughout my career.

Briefly tell us about your family.

My immediate family consists of my husband and our beautiful daughter. Additionally, I am blessed with the most amazing extended family: siblings, in-laws, cousins, aunts and uncles. They are all incredible, supportive and loving. Family is everything, and I am lucky to have the best. Name the person who influenced you the most.

My mother is the most influential person in my life. She has worked so hard to provide a stable and safe life for me and my siblings, often sacrificing her own needs. She is beautiful, smart, strong and fierce. She is the most incredible woman, raising me to be strong and independent. Her soul radiates kindness and compassion. Everything good in me is because of her.

Favorite place in Alaska and why?

Point Woronzof. I have built so many family memories here. For many years, it has been a family favorite for a quick evening adventure. My family has enjoyed the ocean, the history and the views of the city and surrounding mountains.

What is your favorite pastime or hobby away from work?

Gardening. I love gardening and being outside. There is something incredibly grounding and calming about it for me.

If you could give your younger self advice, what would it be?

Believe in yourself.

“What you see and what you hear depends a great deal on where you are standing.”

- C.S Lewis

Rachael Miller Chief Advocacy Officer; Associate Professor of Business Food Bank of Alaska; Alaska Pacific University

Hometown:

Painesville, OH

Current City: Anchorage, AK

Education/Degrees

Bachelor of Business Administration in marketing; Bachelor of Arts in psychology; Master of Business Administration in global impact.

Highlight your community work. It centers around food, education and entrepreneurship. I’ve spent my time working with the Alaska startup community to help build our business support ecosystem, the Alaska Food Policy Council to grow our state’s food literacy, and many organizations and people who want and deserve a more resilient food system.

What has been your most rewarding community service?

Serving in the United States Peace Corps in Benin from 2006-2008 was transformative. Community-level work taught me invaluable lessons in humility, generosity and embracing sustainable change. My experience in West Africa not only led me to Alaska through a fishing boat connection, but also highlighted the similarities between Alaska and other countries, from seasonal isolation to cultural diversity and complex narratives.

What was your first job?

Transplanting pepper plants in a greenhouse is a pretty cool job for a 12-year-old!

Briefly tell us about your family. The family lore is that my dad briefly worked at a nuclear power plant and would drop my mom off at the gates to protest - they’re still married! I think that sums up my experience as a kid. I won the family lotterylots of laughter and family meals.

39

Name the person who influenced you the most. I’ve learned the most from people who don’t know it all, say so, and value competence over confidence. Professors who truly want to problem-solve alongside students, leaders who ask “what do you think?”, my friends and colleagues who intimately know our societal challenges but reach out for more brain power, and my folks who let me get a little weird and choose my adventure.

Favorite place in Alaska and why?

On a boat, on the Upper Kenai River. What is your favorite pastime or hobby away from work?

Traveling and food; I’ll take those two topics any way I can. If you could give your younger self advice, what would it be?

Don’t take your foot off the gas.

“Leave safety behind. Put your body on the line. Stand before the people you fear and speak your mind – even if your voice shakes. When you least expect it, someone may listen to what you have to say. Well-aimed slingshots can topple giants. And do your homework.”

- Maggie Kuhn, Gray Panthers

Jimmy Miner 38

Vice President, JL Properties Inc.

Hometown:

Anchorage, AK

Current City: Anchorage, AK

Education/Degrees

B.A., Depaul University. M.B.A., University of Colorado Boulder.

What has been your most rewarding community service?

I have the opportunity to sit on the boards of directors of the Anchorage Museum, Camp Fire Alaska and The Dome, and I love giving back to our community through these roles. All three of these organizations do so much for our community.

What was your first job?

I started mowing lawns around my neighborhood in middle school. By high school, ten of my friends were working for me, so I guess I was always a bit of an entrepreneur.

In your professional life, what project or achievement has been most fulfilling to you?

In the fall of 2021 I bought Wrightway Auto Carriers. It was truly fulfilling to carry on the legacy of a 70-year-old company here in Alaska.

Briefly tell us about your family.

My amazing family is my everything: my lovely wife, Mary, and my three children, Rhya (7), Jay (3) and Alma (2).

Name the person who influenced you the most. My amazing wife! I fell in love with her when I was five years old and never looked back. Without her unwavering support, I would not be able to accomplish nearly as much.

Favorite place in Alaska and why?

Alaska is my home, and I can’t pick just one place, but some of my favorites include the slopes of Alyeska, the beaches of Bristol Bay and the rolling hills of Denali National Park.

What is your favorite pastime or hobby away from

I love to ski and travel, especially now that my kids are getting old enough to do those things with me. I no longer have to slow down to ski with my oldest daughter, and it is so fun to see her smile as she leans into a turn.

If you could give your younger self advice, what would it be?

Don’t worry; it will all work out.

“The way to get started is to quit talking and begin doing.”

- Walt Disney

Tana Skye Nevada Managing Partner, The Bridge Co.

Hometown:

Anchorage, AK

Current City: Anchorage, AK

Education/Degrees

Bachelor of Business Administration in management, 2016, University of Alaska Anchorage. Project management certificate, 2018, University of California Irvine. Highlight your community work. Community involvement has been a cornerstone of my life since elementary school, extending through high school, college and into my professional career. Currently, I hold roles as Vice President of the University of Alaska Anchorage Alumni Association and Vice President of UAA’s College of Business of Public Policy Dean’s Advisory Board. Additionally, I serve on the Board of Directors for the Anchorage Chamber of Commerce and Co-Chair its Municipal Activity Committee. I’ve also contributed to various organizations and charity events, including Stand Together Against Rape (STAR) Alaska, the American Cancer Society and the Future Leaders of Alaska, among others. Through networking and fundraising efforts, these engagements have not only enriched my personal growth but also contributed to the betterment of our local community. What has been your most rewarding community service?

My work with the Young Professionals Group (YPG) through the Anchorage Chamber of Commerce has been the most rewarding community service. YPG has been instrumental to my own growth as a business professional, leader and person.

What was your first job?

As a teenager, I drove around one of those golf carts that picked up balls at the old Klatt Driving Range! In your professional life, what project or achievement has been most fulfilling to you?

In 2023, my business partner, Chef Lexa Gokey, and I took the plunge and purchased the restaurant. It’s been an exhilarating journey filled with challenges and adventures. From exploring Spencer Glacier by helicopter to cruising in Prince William Sound, and serving in unique locations like private homes and our distinctive railroad bridge spot, we’ve

infused our journey with courage and plenty of spice! Briefly tell us about your family.

I’m a third-generation Alaskan, the daughter and granddaughter of wonderfully supportive educators. Most of my extended family live in Alaska as well, we are now into our fourth generation! As an only child, I’m very close to my parents. I often say I have the best parents on the planet, and I’ll fight anyone who tries to tell me otherwise!

Name the person who influenced you the most.

As a third-generation Alaskan, I come from a family of supportive educators, with most of my extended family also rooted in Alaska, spanning four generations now. Being an only child, I share a close bond with my parents, whom I affectionately regard as the best on the planet, ready to defend that title against any challengers!

Favorite place in Alaska and why?

Sand Lake in Anchorage. I love to kayak there as it’s close to my home, so I can go there often during the summer. I love to watch the wildlife as the season progresses, from little goslings turning into noisy adults to the big ‘ol bull moose with the bright yellow tag I see every year.

What is your favorite pastime or hobby away from work?

I love networking and attending all the wonderful shows, galas, fundraisers and events Anchorage has to offer.

If you could give your younger self advice, what would it be?

Don’t get married.

“If there’s an answer, it’s just that it’s just that way.”

- John Denver

Britney Olsen

Executive Director,

Chugiak-Eagle River Chamber of

Commerce

Hometown:

Eagle River, AK

Current City:

Chugiak, AK

Education/Degrees

Bachelor of Arts with a major in justice and minor in communications, University of Alaska Anchorage.

Highlight your community work. Thanks to my parents, from an early age, I learned about civic responsibility. My mom still has a picture from the local Star Newspaper of me holding a large sign in front of a street promoting a “Save the World” day! Before I knew I could question how I used my time, I was actively involved with whatever was happening in my life. I helped at church, I helped at my schools when I played Knik Little League, and I cleaned up the fields. I became a Big Sister Mentor with Big Brothers Big Sisters. As I grew older, this translated into anything my children were doing I was involved in - team mom, PTO, snack shack, fundraisers, etc. I am involved in the comp basketball in Eagle River, volunteer for Boo at the Beach, organize neighborhood fire pit FriYAYs, and participate in the JBER Civic Leader Program as an Honorary Commander.

What has been your most rewarding community service?

I am part of a group that has started a competitive basketball program in the Eagle River-Chugiak area for 3rd-8th graders, which is still ongoing. What was your first job?

Outside of babysitting and yard work, my first job was at my church as a Crew Member. In your professional life, what project or achievement has been most fulfilling to you?

The creation of a Workforce Innovation & Opportunities Grant Program (WIOA) at McLaughlin Youth Center. The grant program was designed to offer the highest-risk youth in the state an opportunity to learn soft and hard workforce skills, helping them become productive members of society upon their release from long-term treatment. To this day, the center continues to carry on the grant program.

Briefly tell us about your family.

I have been married for 14 years to my awesome husband, and we are the proud parents of two boys. My mother and father lived in my childhood home, and three out of four siblings lived within 10 miles of me.

Name the person who influenced you the most.

My mom, Renee Henry. She is a caretaker to all and has shown me what it is to live a life of love, integrity and selflessness. She is my biggest champion and someone who lives and breathes by the “it takes a village” proverb.

Favorite place in Alaska and why?

I love any place in Alaska where I can be warm, near water, see the stars and mountains, have quietness and no mosquitoes. What is your favorite pastime or hobby away from work?

Basketball, which I play with my boys and husband. Between playing - sometimes - and watching - mostly - the game has always been a part of my life, and I am fortunate to enjoy it with my family.

If you could give your younger self advice, what would it be?

Find a way to balance being selfless and selfish so that my impact on myself and others is extraordinary.

“I’ve learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.”

- Maya Angelou

Rachel Olson

Owner and Manager,

REACH

907

Hometown:

Upstate South Carolina

Current City: Palmer, AK

Education/Degrees

Bachelor of Science in biology. Highlight your community work. Supporting at-risk youth with various emotional and mental health programs.

What has been your most rewarding community service?

Founding and developing REACH 907, a nonprofit dedicated to the well-being of at-risk youth.

What was your first job?

Science teacher for high school students. In your professional life, what project or achievement has been most fulfilling to you?

Achieving Division of Behavioral Health Mental Health Services Certification and National Accreditation Certification in Excellence of Service.

Briefly tell us about your family.

My husband and I have three biological children ages 10-14 and have fostered over 40 children and teens in care.

Name the person who influenced you the most. My father is a physician and takes excellent care of his patients. He also co-founded a nonprofit for moms in crisis.

Favorite place in Alaska and why?

Hatcher Pass and Summit Lake have incredible panoramic views of a long distance of mountains and valleys, and I can relax and watch the paragliders. What is your favorite pastime or hobby away from work?

Traveling with family and watercolor or acrylic painting. If you could give your younger self advice, what would it be?

Unless it is a national or state-level crisis, this current challenge will pass and will no longer be relevant a short time from now. Stay focused on the long term and relax.

“You are made precious, you are more than your feelings, and your future is

- Dr. Mark Andrews, clinician for 40 years

Hometown:

Anchorage, AK

Current City:

Anchorage, AK

Education/Degrees

Undergraduate, Montana State University

Highlight your community work.

I am working to create a community hub at our bakeries. I want to excite and improve Anchorage as a place to live, work and play. I want to empower and uplift our staff to lead full, meaningful lives.

What has been your most rewarding community service?

Leading a conference for incarcerated women each fall at Hiland Mountain Correctional.

What was your first job?

Womens Sports Shop, Anchorage 2002

In your professional life, what project or achievement has been most fulfilling to you?

Expanding our bakery while continuing to serve and enhance neighborhoods around Anchorage. Briefly tell us about your family.

I married a man I originally met in second grade. We have two wild kids, a dog named Odie, and loving extended families we try to spend a lot of time with!

Name the person who influenced you the most. My mother and business partner, Janis Fleischman

Favorite place in Alaska and why?

The Front Range, mountains in our backyard. What is your favorite pastime or hobby away from work? Skiing!!!!!

If you could give your younger self advice, what would it be?

Take it easy, time will tell.

“A leader is someone who knows the way, goes the way, and shows the way.”

- John Maxwell

Rachel Pennington

Owner/Manager, Fire Island Rustic Bakeshop

37 Casey Sifsof

Director, Shareholder Development, Bristol Bay Native Corporation

Hometown:

Dillingham, AK

Current City: Anchorage, AK

Education/Degrees

Bachelor of Arts in psychology, 2009, UAA. Master of Business Administration, 2024, APU. Highlight your community work.

Native Advisory Committee/ ASD Indigenous Education Program; Junior Achievement Volunteer; Leadership Anchorage 19- Service Project Civic Platform for Engagement AK (CPEAK); ANCSA Regional Shareholder Development Advisory Group; Bristol Bay Workforce Development Consortium; Bristol Bay Youth Leadership Forum What has been your most rewarding community service?

I was honored to serve as a parent member on the Native Advisory Committee for Anchorage School District’s Indigenous Education Program. As a committee, we were able to move forward with important policies supporting traditional regalia for high school graduation, pass a resolution for Native languages for the district and pass an updated culturally-responsive Alaska studies curriculum for third grade. My oldest son is in third grade this year, and I am so proud that he and all the students in the district have culturally-relevant material to learn about in school.

What was your first job?

Boys and Girls Club -Youth Mentor In your professional life, what project or achievement has been most fulfilling to you?

I am a first-generation college student. Obtaining my undergraduate degree and now master’s degree has been extremely fulfilling for me professionally and personally. My education helped shape my career path choices and work experiences, which led me to where I am today. Briefly tell us about your family.

My husband and I have a house of boys: two sons and my brother, Randy (20), Victor (9) and Henry (2), whom we helped raise.

Name the person who influenced you the most. My childhood friend, Alannah Hurley, has always inspired me. She encouraged me to be involved in our community and to participate in programs that made a positive impact on my life. She has always been a role model to our peers, and I am so thankful for her friendship and

Favorite place in Alaska and why?

Ekuk - I spent my summers there growing up with my family commercial fishing. What is your favorite pastime or hobby away from work?

I love to get lost in a good book. If you could give your younger self advice, what would it be? Believe in yourself. You can do a hell of a lot and more than you think.

“Real change, enduring change, happens one step at a time.”

- Ruth Bader Ginsburg

Hometown:

Kawkawlin, MI

Current City: Anchorage, AK

Education/Degrees

B.A. in history and political science, 2010, Western Michigan University. M.Ed. in teaching and learning, 2016, University of Alaska Anchorage.

Highlight your community work. Committee member, Equity Committee of the Anchorage Assembly; Board member, StoryWorks Alaska; Referee, Alaska Rugby Referee Society; Board member/Youth Committee Chair, Identity Inc.

What has been your most rewarding community service?

My work with LGBTQIA+ youth. Working with other young adults to develop, host and chaperone the first statewide LGBTQIA+ youth summit over a decade ago was an honor. After five years of participating, I passed the baton to the next generation of young adult leaders and am proud that the foundation we laid allows youth summits to continue today. I didn’t have positive queer adults in my life as a queer youth, so to fill that role for the next generation was beyond meaningful.

What was your first job?

McDonalds in high school. In your professional life, what project or achievement has been most fulfilling to you?

Operation Allies Welcome, the resettling Afghans to Alaska in 2021. It was such a large-scale humanitarian effort to bring our allies to safety, and the support from the community was overwhelming. The speed at which individuals arrived was beyond anything refugee resettlement had ever seen, and I am so proud of

Issa Spatrisano

State Refugee Coordinator, Catholic Social Services

the work that the team of resettlement workers and partners accomplished in those months. Today, some of these arrivals are my colleagues, and watching their families grow is a gift! Briefly tell us about your family.

I am the daughter of Greg and Mary Jo Braman and have six siblings. I am married to Jaime for 17 years, and we have three wonderful children: Micha (2.5 years), Houston (17 months) and

Name the person who influenced you the most.

I can’t name a single person, so instead, I’ll say my coworkers from refugee and immigrant backgrounds who have shared so willingly their lived experiences, talents and culture. I wouldn’t be in my position without the guidance of Luba, Said, Hayat, Flavia, Hari, Liz, Gulnora, Mahdi, Zori, Sayed and so many more.

Favorite place in Alaska and why?

Kasilof Beach during dipnetting season. There is nothing better than the beauty of the mountains, the gift of Alaska salmon and time with friends.

What is your favorite pastime or hobby away

I love gardening! I have a community garden plot at St. Anthony’s and love spending the summer there with my kids planting and harvesting. You can’t beat fresh-grown vegetables after a long Alaska winter!

If you could give your younger self advice, what would it be? It will be better than you ever imagined!

“Success isn’t about how much money you make; it’s about the difference you make in people’s lives.”

- Michelle Obama

38 Esther Tempel

Director of Carbon and New Energy, ASRC Energy Services

Hometown:

Rochester, MN

Current City: Anchorage, AK

Education/Degrees

B.S. in foreign service, Georgetown University

Highlight your community work.

Parent Coordinator at Chugach Optional; Georgetown Alumni Admissions Program

What has been your most rewarding community service?

I had the pleasure of volunteering at the Downtown Hope Kitchen for a few years pre-COVID-19. Serving unhoused women with tea and snacks while listening to their stories was rewarding. I was able to celebrate successes with these women and also provide encouragement when needed. What was your first job?

Data Analyst at PFC Energy in Washington, D.C.

In your professional life, what project or achievement has been most fulfilling to you?

My current role, seeking to bring carbon capture and sequestration opportunities to Alaska, is the most interesting project I have had the opportunity to work on. I am excited to see where the industry goes. However, I have had the privilege of working on legislation that impacts the state. Briefly tell us about your family.

My husband, Josh, is the reason I came to Alaska. We have three young boys who keep me busy!

Name the person who influenced you the most.

I admire and look up to various people for their work ethic, professionalism and ability to “do it all.” At the top of the list is my husband, Josh, who is always looking out for our family, constantly seeking to learn and grow, and supporting me as I try to do the same.

Favorite place in Alaska and why?

Prince William Sound! I have had several memorable adventures out of Whittier, and the beauty and wildlife never cease to amaze me.

What is your favorite pastime or hobby away

Reading with/to my kids is awesome. In the summer, I love getting outdoors and biking with the family. If you could give your younger self advice, what would it be?

Stop worrying! Some of the best things in life happen by chance. That does not mean planning is bad, but when things don’t go according to plan, it’s okay too; something better might be around the corner.

“Because what you give your attention to is the person you become. Put another way: the mind is the portal to the soul, and what you fill your mind with will shape the trajectory of your character. In the end, your life is no more than the sum of what you gave your attention to.”

- John Mark Comer

Tafilisaunoa Toleafoa 39

Executive Director, Pacific Community of Alaska

Hometown: Born in Iva, Savaii, raised in Pava’ia’i, American Samoa

Current City: Anchorage, AK

Education/Degrees

Bachelor of Liberal Studies and Political Science, University of Alaska Anchorage. Diversity, equity and inclusion in the workplace certificate, University of South Florida. Human Trafficking Leadership Academy Class 5 Fellow. Leadership Anchorage Class 13.

Highlight your community work.

Founding board member and Executive Director of the Pacific Community of Alaska. A founding board member and Treasurer of the United Territories of Pacific Islanders Alliance (UTOPIA) Alaska. The co-chair of the Board of Directors for the National Association of Pasifika Organizations (NAOPO), board member of the Anchorage Neighborhood Health Center (ANHC), member of the Multicultural Education Concerns Advisory Committee (MECAC) of the Anchorage School District, member of the Equity Committee of the Anchorage Assembly, co-assistant leader for youth, Pathfinder, Adventurer and Children Ministry of Alaska Samoan Seventh-day Adventist Church.

What has been your most rewarding community service?

Initiating a conversation with Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander leaders in Anchorage regarding COVID-19’s effects on our community. This began as a single conversation snowballed into further discussions, initiatives and efforts that led to the establishment of the Pacific Community of Alaska (PCA).

What was your first job?

Student Assistant at the African American, Hispanic, Asian/Pacific Islander, International and Native American (AHAINA) Student Programs at the University of Alaska Anchorage.

In your professional life, what project or achievement has been most fulfilling to you?

The most gratifying achievement to me is ensuring that trans people of Native Hawaiian and Pacific Island descent have a rightful place and representation in professional spheres.

Briefly tell us about your family.

My parents are Lilomaiva Seve Toleafoa and Ropeta Ropeti Toleafoa. I am fifth of nine children and mother of Mealii Toleafoa and Ropeti Tautua-Toleafoa.

Name the person who influenced you the most.

Ropeta Ropeti Toleafoa - my Queen, my world, my all, my mom. Favorite place in Alaska and why?

Point Woronzof Overlook. The sunset views of the Sleeping Lady are amazing! What is your favorite pastime or hobby away from work?

Long car rides, dinner dates with family and friends, and listening to audiobooks.

If you could give your younger self advice, what would it be?

Live, learn, love and, most of all, be you!

“O le ala i le pule o le tautua” (The pathway to leadership is through service)

- Samoan Proverb

36 Josh Verhagen Mayor/Author, City of Nenana/JV Creations

Hometown:

Nenana, AK

Current City: Nenana, AK

Education/Degrees

Associate in drafting technology. Bachelor in East Asian languages and politics.

Highlight your community work.

Wrote, applied for, was awarded and helped manage over 20 grants for the city, totaling several million dollars. Designed, created and organized a team to build a biomass district heat plant to serve the school, water plant, fire department and rec hall. Partnered with the school district to completely repurpose and refurbish a building for students to have a place for recess, recreation and activities during the winter. What has been your most rewarding community service?

Having reduced the city’s overall debt by approximately 95% in less than five years. What was your first job? My first official job was working for Woodland Farms, a tree and reindeer farm. In your professional life, what project or achievement has been most fulfilling to you?

Writing and illustrating my first children’s book, Eddie the Ermine, was extremely fulfilling and rewarding. It was more fun than work. We’ve sold a few thousand copies, and I plan to write more.

Briefly tell us about your family. I have an incredible wife and two boys - my best buds. I grew up with five sisters and three brothers. Dad is from Hawaii, and mom was raised in Arizona, but was born in Fairbanks. My parents moved to Tanana in 1980, and to Nenana in 1987, but they never left.

Name the person who influenced you the most. In my formative years, my dad, who has since passed. Over the past 11 years, my wife. Both instilled in me a lot of vision for things I don’t believe I ever would have pursued without them. Favorite place in Alaska and why?

Manly Hot Springs. I love the sulfur-free hot springs, the beautiful terrain and landscape, and the peace and quiet. What is your favorite pastime or hobby away from work?

If you could give your younger self advice, what would

Don’t waste time arguing with people.

“Love the people God gave you because He will need them back one day.”

- Hoda Kotb

Daniel Volland 39

Assembly

Member; Owner, Anchorage Assembly; Ursa Optical

Hometown:

Federal Way, WA

Current City: Anchorage, AK

Education/Degrees

B.S. in biology, Pacific Lutheran University. Doctorate of Optometry, Pacific University. Highlight your community work.

Vice President, South Addition Community Council; Member, Anchorage Chamber of Commerce Legislative Committee; Chair, Anchorage East Rotary Club Community Service Committee; Member, Anchorage Downtown Partnership; Advisory Board, Arctic Encounter Symposium; Board of Directors, Alaska World Affairs Council

What has been your most rewarding community service?

I helped coordinate the Anchorage East Rotary Mobile Food Pantry in partnership with the Alaska Food Bank at the Fairview Community Recreation Center. What was your first job? Bank teller

In your professional life, what project or achievement has been most fulfilling to you?

Becoming a business owner and building my optometry practice with a wonderfully supportive team.

Briefly tell us about your family. My parents, Ron and Barbara, have backgrounds in telecommunications and are now retired. They always worked hard to help support my siblings and me, and enabled us to pursue our dreams. My sister, Emily, is a trauma surgeon. My brother, Jonny, is an oral maxillofacial surgeon in the U.S. Navy. My nephew, Elliott, is learning to walk and talk and has yet to choose his medical specialty. Name the person who influenced you the most.

My parents encouraged me to treat everyone as a friend and to be intellectually curious about the world around me.

Favorite place in Alaska and why?

Anchorage! We have everything from great shopping and dining, to fantastic parks and trails and access to the mountains. We also are a city of hardworking people who care about their community. We are a welcoming city where everyone belongs.

What is your favorite pastime or hobby away from

If you could give your younger self advice, what would it be?

Save more money!

“It is not the critic who counts: not the man who points out how the strong man stumbles or where the doer of deeds could have done better. The credit belongs to the man who is actually in the arena, whose face is marred by dust and sweat and blood, who strives valiantly, who errs and comes up short again and again, because there is no effort without error or shortcoming, but who knows the great enthusiasms, the great devotions, who spends himself in a worthy cause; who, at best, knows, in the end, the triumph of high achievement, and who, at the worst, if he fails, at least he fails while daring greatly so that his place shall never be with those cold and timid souls who knew neither victory nor defeat.”

- Teddy Roosevelt

36 Amanda

Rose Warren Artist and Owner, Amanda Rose Warren Studio and Gallery

Hometown:

Anchorage, AK

Current City: Anchorage, AK

Education/Degrees

High School Diploma

Highlight your community work. I am passionate about contributing my creative efforts to benefit local schools, families and animals in crisis. What has been your most rewarding community service?

Working with Beacon Hill and seeing how much their program impacts children and families has been truly touching.

What was your first job?

Preschool Teacher’s Assistant In your professional life, what project or achievement has been most fulfilling to you?

When the Seward SeaLife Center was facing closure during COVID-19, Christina Wilson and I hosted an online auction partnering with many local makers to help raise $40,000. Briefly tell us about your family.

My supportive husband, Don, works by my side. My two sons, Kaiden and Gaige, keep me laughing, and we all work for the attention of our crosseyed cat Bob Ross.

Name the person who influenced you the most.

After the passing of my late mother, Kelly, my artwork was a therapeutic outlet. I hope my efforts make her proud to this day.

Favorite place in Alaska and why?

My favorite place in Alaska is Kodiak. I have visited the last two summers and I find it magical. What is your favorite pastime or hobby away from work?

I love soaking up the sun on the beach with a romance novel.

If you could give your younger self advice, what would it be?

Don’t sweat the small stuff; learn to be more patient and do good, and good will come to you.

“Would I rather be feared or loved? Easy. Both. I want people to be afraid of how much they love me.”

- Michael Scott

Congratulations Stephanie for being a 2024 Top Forty under 40 Honoree from your PWR House family

Help young people reach their potential in life. Volunteer and be the coach you needed. Suit up. It’s game time!

to Alexis Sallee, the Host and Producer of

from the whole team at

Broadcast Corporation

Indigefi,

Koahnic

Hometown:

Born in New York, now Fairbanks, AK

Current City:

North Pole, AK

Education/Degrees

NASM CPT, GEAR, FNC, and UAF Associates of Arts

Highlight your community work.

Founded the first ever charity cycling event, in 2017, with Lavelle’s Taphouse, and have since raised almost $500,000 every year, founding Salty’s Gives Back Inc.; I have won numerous Goldies Awards for investigative reporting; I have won awards from the United States Army for producing my own show on the Oprah Winfrey Network entitled “Married to the Army Alaska”; We have founded two local fitness, cycling and reformer Pilates businesses in Fairbanks, being voted the #1 Fairbanks gym since 2019; I have been voted #1 personal trainer by People’s Choice Awards since 2018/19.

What has been your most rewarding community service?

The most rewarding community service has been creating the first-ever charity cycling event in Fairbanks in 2017. Starting “Spin for Quinn” has since inspired our nonprofit, Salty’s Gives Back Inc., and even other charities have been inspired by my work with this event to do their versions. This work has raised almost half a million dollars for various charities across our state!

What was your first job?

My first job was as a Ballet Coach and Teacher. It started my love and passion for wellness, body positivity and fitness. In your professional life, what project or achievement has been most fulfilling to you?

I founded the PWR House and created a supportive community in Fairbanks. I love this community we have built, each year

Stephanie Woodard

Co-Owner/Founding Coach,

The PWR House/+ Reformers by PWR House

raising awareness for charities such as Go Red - for which I was the co-chair this year - Breast Cancer Detection and so much more.

Briefly tell us about your family.

I am a part of a proud Army family! My husband is a retired 20year veteran helicopter pilot who served three combat war tours. We have two beautiful children, Koldyn and Ella-Kay, who make us proud daily.

Name the person who influenced you the

I am most impacted by my business partners, my best friend and her husband, Clint and Jenny. They helped me get through some of the toughest times of my life, and I wouldn’t have been here without them.

Favorite place in Alaska and why?

The PWR House! It’s our community, and I truly love spending my days surrounded by people who inspire greatness! What is your favorite pastime or hobby away from work? I love to watch true crimes; I guess that’s the investigative reporter in me!

If you could give your younger self advice, what would it be?

Believe in yourself. God has a plan for you, and with truth, faith and trust, you can do anything you set your mind to! And girl - you will surprise yourself every single time!

“I am not a word. I am not a line. I am not a girl that can ever be defined!”

- Nicki Minaj

38 Stanley Wright

Representative,

Alaska State House

Highlight your community work.

My community service is driven by collective action for lasting change. Volunteering at Bean’s Café and the Alaska Foodbank tackles hunger and homelessness. I empower youth for leadership through mentoring with the Omega Psi Phi Fraternity. Advocating for equality with the NAACP and supporting the Downtown Soup Kitchen Hope Center reinforces my commitment. What has been your most rewarding community service?

I find the Youth Leadership Development Academy, facilitated by my fraternity, Omega Psi Phi, to be profoundly rewarding. This program stands out for its impact and the profound personal growth it fosters in both the mentors and mentees.

In your professional life, what project or achievement has been most fulfilling to you?

The first thing that comes to mind is my sponsored legislation, HB 1,26, which passed out of the House and is very close to becoming law. It directly addresses a critical need within our state - increasing access to mental health services for all Alaskans. Given Alaska’s distressingly high suicide rates, the potential impact of this bill on our communities is profound. Seeing HB 126 pass out of the house with the support of my colleagues was not just a professional achievement, it was a deeply personal victory.

Briefly tell us about your family.

I met my wife during my senior year of high school when she nearly ran me over in her car. She’s the glue that holds our family together, the quintessential mama bear, always keeping our ship sailing smoothly when I’ve been deployed across the world or when I’m away in Juneau. Our daughter, Sentha, 18, is my mini-me in female form, which terrifies me a bit. Stanley Jr., our thoughtful son, has a passion for acting. They’re my world. Despite the distance my work sometimes requires, knowing they’re together, supporting each other, gives me immense peace.

Name the person who influenced you the most.

Undoubtedly a teacher from my high school years, Mr.

Forrest Blunt. At 17, circumstances dictated that I became an emancipated minor. I faced the daunting challenge of living alone and supporting myself. I did not have the luxury of a car to get myself around. Mr. Blunt gave me rides to school every day for two months straight. Despite navigating my own way home, his kindness and support were instrumental to graduatee. His belief in me and his willingness to help set me on a path to achievement taught me the importance of compassion, support and the profound impact we can have on each other’s lives.

Favorite place in Alaska and why?

It’s the journey along the Seward Highway down to Homer. There’s something magical about this drive that captures the essence of Alaska’s stunning natural beauty. We took and RV trip with my family. The whole experience left us with memories we cherish deeply. What is your favorite pastime or hobby away from work?

Tinkering with clocks allows me to decompress from the demands of legislative

If you could give your younger self advice, what would it be?

Given that time travel may trigger unintended consequences, I’m inclined to avoid such disruptions. Honestly, if given the chance, I’d tell my younger self nothing at all. The trials and errors, the lessons learned the hard way - they’re the very essence of growth. I needed those experiences to mold me, and without them, I wouldn’t be who I am today.

“Anyone can steer the ship, but it takes a leader to chart the course. Leaders who are good navigators are capable of taking their people just about anywhere.”

- John Maxwell

Matthew Fagnani 1998

Minto Global; Minto Development President; COO

CITY: Anchorage

YEAR: 1998

AGE: 64

COMPANY AND TITLE AT THE TIME OF YOUR TOP FORTY SELECTION.

President WorkSafe Inc./NANA CURRENT COMPANY AND TITLE.

President Minto Global, COO Minto Development Corp WHAT WAS YOUR FIRST JOB AND AT WHAT AGE? Busboy, 14

WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE YOUNG ADULTS HEADING INTO THE WORKFORCE TODAY?

Do your research. Technology today allows you to know more about a potential career. If you’re in college, be sure to have accounting classes and be able to write.

Where are they Now?

CITY: Anchorage

YEAR: 2000

AGE(S): Rob - 52; Stacia - 51

Rob - McKinley Capital/Director Global Equities; Stacia - Nerland Agency

CURRENT COMPANY AND TITLE.

Rob and Stacia Gilliam

CEO/McKinley Management

COMPANY AND TITLE AT THE TIME OF YOUR TOP FORTY SELECTION.

Rob (CEO) and Stacia - McKinley Management LLC

WHAT WAS YOUR FIRST JOB AND AT WHAT AGE?

Rob - Landscaping, 14; Stacia - Waitress, 18 WHAT IS YOUR MOTIVATION FOR SUCCESS?

Stacia - My desire to live out my Christian faith WHAT BIG PROMOTIONS OR MOVES INTO KEY NEW POSITIONS HAVE YOU HAD SINCE YOUR TOP FORTY HONOR?

Rob - I became Chief Investment Officer of McKinley Capital in 2008, and CEO of parent company McKinley Management in 2018.

Gretchen Guess 2000 2001

President/CEO

Rasmuson Foundation

CITY: Anchorage

YEAR: 2001

AGE: 54

COMPANY AND TITLE AT THE TIME OF YOUR TOP FORTY SELECTION.

Legislator, Alaska State House CURRENT COMPANY AND TITLE.

President/CEO Rasmuson Foundation

WHAT WAS YOUR FIRST JOB AND AT WHAT AGE? Front Desk, Sheffield House, 17 WHAT WOULD YOU CONSIDER YOUR BIGGEST COMMUNITY SUCCESS TO DATE? Supporting front-line physicians during COVID-19.

Where are they Now?

CITY: Anchorage

YEAR: 2002

AGE: 55

COMPANY AND TITLE AT THE TIME OF YOUR TOP FORTY SELECTION.

Office of U.S. Senator Frank H. Murkowski, Staff Assistant

CURRENT COMPANY AND TITLE.

Office of U.S. Senator Lisa Murkowski, Administrative Services Director

WHAT WAS YOUR FIRST JOB AND AT WHAT AGE?

Hostess and server at a small, family-owned Italian restaurant.

WHAT IS YOUR MOTIVATION FOR SUCCESS?

Knowing that wherever I have been, whatever I have done, I have earned the trust of those around me and left every job better than I found it.

Krag Johnsen 2002 2003

Angelina Burney

Office of U.S. Senator Lisa Murkowski, Administrative Services Director

GCI, Vice President Wholesale, Enterprise, and Government

CITY: Anchorage

YEAR: 2003

AGE: 51

COMPANY AND TITLE AT THE TIME OF YOUR TOP FORTY SELECTION.

Denali Commission, Director of Programs

CURRENT COMPANY AND TITLE.

GCI, Vice President Wholesale, Enterprise, and Government

WHAT WAS YOUR FIRST JOB AND AT WHAT AGE?

Loading airplanes at Troy Air in Anchorage, 15.

WHAT IS YOUR MOTIVATION FOR SUCCESS?

My children motivate me to be successful in work and everything I do to make Alaska a better place for them.

Where are they Now?

CITY: Mountain Village/Anchorage

YEAR: 2006

AGE: 46

COMPANY AND TITLE AT THE TIME OF YOUR TOP FORTY SELECTION.

First Alaskans Institute, Communications Manager

CURRENT COMPANY AND TITLE.

Northwest Strategies, Director of Business Development

WHAT WAS YOUR FIRST JOB AND AT WHAT AGE?

Babysitter, 12

WHAT BIG PROMOTIONS OR MOVES INTO KEY NEW POSITIONS HAVE YOU HAD SINCE YOUR TOP FORTY HONOR?

Moved to New York to work at Alaska House, New York. “Fell” into Development Director for the Alaska Federation of Natives (AFN).

Sara Penisten 2006 2008

Trina Landlord

Northwest Strategies, Director of Business Development

Providence Alaska Medical Center, RN, Injury Prevention Outreach & Safe Kids AK Coalition Coordinator

CITY: Chugiak

YEAR: 2008

AGE: 54

COMPANY AND TITLE AT THE TIME OF YOUR TOP FORTY SELECTION.

Providence Alaska Medical Center, RN, Safe Kids Alaska State Coalition Coordinator

CURRENT COMPANY AND TITLE.

Providence Alaska Medical Center, RN, Injury Prevention Outreach & Safe Kids AK Coalition Coordinator

WHAT WAS YOUR FIRST JOB AND AT WHAT AGE?

ALPAR Summer Litter Patrol Crew, 14

WHAT PERSON(S) HAVE BEEN INSTRUMENTAL IN YOUR SUCCESSES OVER THE YEARS AND WHY?

My parents and siblings, my nurse mentors and teammates, and my husband, Chris Turcic.

Where are they Now?

CITY: Eagle River

YEAR: 2012

AGE: 51

Christy Terry 2012

Alaska Railroad, Vice President Real Estate

COMPANY AND TITLE AT THE TIME OF YOUR TOP FORTY SELECTION.

Alaska Railroad Corporation

CURRENT COMPANY AND TITLE.

Alaska Railroad, Vice President Real Estate

WHAT WAS YOUR FIRST JOB AND AT WHAT AGE?

YMCA Summer Camp Counselor, 14

WHAT WOULD YOU CONSIDER YOUR BIGGEST COMMUNITY SUCCESS TO DATE?

During the COVID-19 pandemic, I was Mayor of Seward and successfully led that community to balance health and safety while keeping local businesses solvent.

2012

Sarah Erkmann Ward

Blueprint

Alaska, President

CITY: Anchorage

YEAR: 2012

AGE: 47

COMPANY AND TITLE AT THE TIME OF YOUR TOP FORTY SELECTION.

External Affairs Director, Alaska Oil and Gas Association

CURRENT COMPANY AND TITLE.

Blueprint Alaska, President

WHAT WAS YOUR FIRST JOB AND AT WHAT AGE?

Dearmoun Greenery, 14

WHAT PERSON(S) HAVE BEEN INSTRUMENTAL IN YOUR SUCCESSES OVER THE YEARS AND WHY?

Robbie Graham, John Tracy, Mayor Dan Sullivan, Kara Moriarty, Jennifer Thompson

Where are they Now?

CITY: Fairbanks

YEAR: 2017

AGE: 46

COMPANY AND TITLE AT THE TIME OF YOUR TOP FORTY SELECTION.

Spruce Tree Montessori School, Head of School and Founder CURRENT COMPANY AND TITLE.

Spruce Tree Montessori School, Head of School and Founder

WHAT WAS YOUR FIRST JOB AND AT WHAT AGE?

Summer Janitorial Assistant, 14

WHAT BIG PROMOTIONS OR MOVES INTO KEY NEW POSITIONS HAVE YOU HAD SINCE YOUR TOP FORTY HONOR?

I created a leadership team for my school to empower staff as I serve as CEO.

Sabrina Binkley

Katheryn Powers 2017 2022

Spruce Tree Montessori School, Head of School and Founder

Anchorage Neighborhood Health Center, Director of Quality Integration

CITY: Anchorage

YEAR: 2022

AGE: 36

COMPANY AND TITLE AT THE TIME OF YOUR TOP FORTY SELECTION.

Providence Alaska, Regional Director Operations Support

CURRENT COMPANY AND TITLE.

Anchorage Neighborhood Health Center, Director of Quality Integration.

WHAT WAS YOUR FIRST JOB AND AT WHAT AGE?

Babysitting and cleaning bed and breakfast rooms, 14 WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE YOUNG ADULTS HEADING INTO THE WORKFORCE TODAY?

Don’t be afraid to take on new types of work because you will learn and be able to apply your failures to success in the future.

Where are they Now?

CITY: Anchorage

YEAR: 2023

AGE: 35

Kerry Youngren 2023

Credit Union 1, Vice President of Marketing and Communications

COMPANY AND TITLE AT THE TIME OF YOUR TOP FORTY SELECTION.

Brand and Marketing Manager, MTA CURRENT COMPANY AND TITLE.

Vice President of Marketing and Communications, Credit Union 1

WHAT WAS YOUR FIRST JOB AND AT WHAT AGE?

My brother and I had a newspaper delivery route when we were kids.

WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE YOUNG ADULTS HEADING INTO THE WORKFORCE TODAY?

Find a mentor, set boundaries and give yourself grace.

PREMIER SPONSOR

TABLE SPONSORS

AFTER PARTY SPONSOR

PLATINUM GOLD

SILVER