2025 Gold Pan Awards Program

Page 1


RUN OF SHOW

6:00 PM

Ballroom Opens

7:00 PM

Dinner Served

7:30 PM

Awards Begin

Mayor’s Remarks

Official Toast sponsored by PeopleAK

Community Service by a Small Business

Community Service by a Large Business

Non-Profit Above & Beyond

- INTERMISSION (15 MIN.) -

Music by The Blue Dixie Band

Round 1 Lucky Coin Drawing

Entrepreneurial Excellence

Business Excellence

Volunteer of the Year

Scratch Off Game

Round 2 Lucky Coin Drawing

10:00 PM -12:00 AM

After Party at Gumbo House

Nuvision Alaska is proud to sponsor the 2025 Gold Pan Awards!

Nuvision was honored to be the 2022 winner and a 2024 finalist for the Distinguished Community Service Award by a Large Business or Organization.

Congratulations to this year's finalists!

Congratulations to the 2025 Gold Pan Award finalists.

ConocoPhillips Alaska is proud to support the Anchorage Chamber of Commerce.

Congratulations to the 2025 Gold Pan Award finalists.

Gold Pan Awards Criteria

COMMUNITY SERVICE - Large Business

(more than 50 employees) and Small Business (less than 50 employees)

Nominees (businesses only) must be active participants in the community who demonstrate outstanding community service, creativity, and excellence and have significantly improved the city of Anchorage by achieving success in its business through growth and quality performance.

NON-PROFIT ABOVE & BEYOND

Nominees (organizations only) must aim to significantly improve the city of Anchorage outside of their daily operations by helping the business community succeed through growth and quality performance. The organization must have work that exemplifies its mission and has evolved to meet the needs of its members or the community.

BUSINESS EXCELLENCE

The nominee (businesses only) must have provided excellent goods or services, contributed to the economic vitality of Anchorage, and have a proven record of adaptability and sustainability. The nominee must have been in operation for at least five years by July 2025.

ENTREPRENEURIAL EXCELLENCE

The nominee (business or individual) must have started, organized, and managed a successful business, exemplifying creative vision, talent, and innovative thinking that creates business opportunities. Self-nominations are accepted.

WHAT DOES THE SELECTION PROCESS LOOK LIKE?

This event aims to highlight local businesses of excellence, and the Anchorage Chamber of Commerce strives to keep the integrity of this process by implementing a selection committee every year. The committee reviews all nominations and votes on the finalists and winners in each category. Committee members include chamber staff, and representatives from the Board of Directors, diversity committee, Ambassadors, and Young Professionals Group leadership. For more info, visit anchoragechamber. org/gold-pan-awards.

COMMUNITY SERVICE - SMALL

The Alaska Aviation Museum (AAM) traces its roots to the founding of the Alaskan Historical Aircraft Society in 1977. In 1979, the organization obtained its 501(c)(3) non-profit status, formally establishing the Alaska Aviation Museum with a mission to preserve, display, educate, and honor Alaska’s aviation heritage.

By 1984, the museum began acquiring vintage aircraft, including early additions such as the PBY, Stinson Pilgrim, and Stinson Gullwing. Four years later, in 1988, the museum opened its doors to the public, inviting guests to experience the remarkable story of aviation in Alaska.

Over the years, dedicated volunteers have restored numerous historic aircraft, including the Stinson Gullwing, Stinson Pilgrim, Stearman biplane, L-1, Grumman Goose, and the Noorduyn Norseman—bringing Alaska’s rich aviation history back to life. In recent years, the museum’s Grumman Goose has once again taken to the skies, delighting visitors as it soars gracefully above the shores of Lake Hood.

Today, the Alaska Aviation Museum stands as an integral part of Anchorage’s cultural fabric, featuring four hangars of exhibits and more than 25 vintage aircraft. The museum’s year-round Restoration Hangar allows volunteers to work hands-on preserving aviation history, while visitors can explore the Merrill Field Tower cab for panoramic views of Lake Hood and live radio traffic from Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport.

The Alaska Aviation Museum is deeply committed to education, hosting engaging summer camps that inspire youth to explore the world of aviation. The museum actively supports local schools and nonprofits through community partnerships, donations, and outreach events.

For more than 20 years, AAM has celebrated the accomplishments of distinguished aviators through its annual Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony, which recognizes honorees across three distinct award categories.

For over four decades, the Alaska Aviation Museum has celebrated the pioneering spirit of flight that helped shape the Last Frontier and continues to share that legacy with the world.

Erickson Unlimited is an Alaska-based production company dedicated to bringing people together through the power of live music, events, and community connection. Founded with the belief that entertainment can inspire change, Erickson Unlimited has become a driving force in the state’s event landscape producing large-scale concerts, festivals, and cultural experiences that celebrate Alaskan talent while supporting local causes.

COMMUNITY SERVICE - SMALL

With a diverse portfolio that includes partnerships with the National Warrior Foundation, the American Cancer Society, and Fur Rondy, Erickson Unlimited has helped raise awareness and funds for organizations that strengthen Alaska’s communities. The company also plays a key role in beloved local events like the Backyard Country BBQ, Arctic Comic Con, and the We Are Anchorage Multicultural Festival events that blend artistry, storytelling, and philanthropy.

Under the leadership of CEO Brad Erickson, Erickson Unlimited is guided by a philosophy of collaboration, creativity, and community first. Their team is known for producing seamless, high-impact events that not only entertain but also uplift the people and places they touch. Whether it’s coordinating large-scale music productions, supporting nonprofit fundraisers, or developing opportunities for emerging local talent, Erickson Unlimited remains committed to making Alaska stronger through connection and culture.

Recognized for excellence in business and community leadership, Erickson Unlimited has received multiple honors, including a citation from the Alaska State Legislature for the fifth anniversary of Arctic Comic Con. This recognition reflects the company’s dedication to quality, innovation, and heart values that continue to shape every event they produce.

At its core, Erickson Unlimited believes that every event tells a story and their mission is to make sure Alaska’s story is heard, celebrated, and shared with the world.

For 48 years, Green Connection has been Anchorage’s trusted leader in plant services, this is a small business committed to quality and community. With a team of 25–35 employees, Green Connection provides interior plant design, installation, and maintenance, as well as exterior landscaping, flower and grounds maintenance, and seasonal holiday décor and lighting.

While recognized for its exceptional service, one of Green Connection’s greatest achievements lies in its commitment to the Anchorage community. Under current ownership, the company has expanded its operations and developed a culture focused on service, teamwork, and giving back. In February 2025, Green Connection introduced the Community Give Back Initiative, a program designed to support local nonprofits while providing year-round employment opportunities for otherwise seasonal staff members.

Through this initiative, Green Connection pays employees to volunteer with organizations such as the Covenant House, the Food Bank of Alaska, Beans Café, Habitat for Humanity, and the Alaska Zoo. The program’s goals include donating 500 volunteer hours, collecting and matching 500 pounds of food for the Food Bank of Alaska, and hosting a Covenant House Giving Tree to provide and match $500 in gifts for local youth.

Beyond the initiative, Green Connection offers short-term plant rentals at no cost to nonprofits and donates centerpiece arrangements to community events, helping organizations enhance their spaces for gatherings and fundraisers. The company’s year-round greenhouse also serves as a community hub, providing space for local artists, vendors, workshops, and events. Many staff also volunteered their time this spring to clean up Anchorage, by participating in the Citywide and Fairview Community cleanup. The pride they have in their community is evident.

Green Connection’s values; integrity, professionalism, teamwork, service, and fun, guide employees through their everyday work. The company remains committed to leading with purpose, supporting Anchorage’s nonprofit community, and demonstrating that small businesses can have a lasting and measurable impact through consistent, meaningful service.

For 37 years, Subway® of Alaska, Inc. embodied what it means to be a business deeply rooted in community service. Founded in 1987 by Steve Adams and his late mother, Bobbie Scribner, the company has grown from one neighborhood sandwich shop to 21 locally owned and operated restaurants across Anchorage, Eagle River, JBER, and Girdwood, employing more than 250 Alaskans.

COMMUNITY SERVICE

From the beginning, Subway® of Alaska committed to giving back to every neighborhood it serves. Guided by the local mission “to support healthy eating, active lifestyles, and research and education to improve the lives of Alaskans and visitors,” the company has invested millions of dollars into the Anchorage community over nearly four decades. In just the past two years, Subway® of Alaska contributed more than $250,000 in direct and in-kind donations to local organizations and events.

Subway® of Alaska’s community partnerships span generations and causes—supporting programs that feed, educate, and inspire Alaskans. The company has longstanding partnerships with the Anchorage School District’s School Business Partnership Program, Special Olympics Alaska, the U.S.O., UAA Athletics, and the United Way of Anchorage, where employees have personally contributed nearly $400,000 since 1998 through their workplace campaign. From sponsoring youth hockey and running events to supporting food security initiatives at UAA and beyond, Subway® of Alaska continues to make a measurable difference in the lives of thousands.

Even during challenging times, Subway® of Alaska’s commitment has never wavered. The company’s leadership and employees embody a shared belief that businesses thrive when communities do. Now, with the third generation of Adams family now involved in leadership, Subway® of Alaska remains a shining example of corporate citizenship, proving that giving back is not simply good business; it is the heart of who they are.

COMMUNITY SERVICE - LARGE

Global Credit Union is committed to helping members unlock their financial potential at every stage of life. As a member-owned financial cooperative, Global reinvests its resources into service, value and accessibility so members benefit from low fees, competitive rates and 24/7 support.

Founded in Alaska in 1948 and now serving members across Alaska, Washington, Idaho, California, Arizona and overseas military communities, Global makes it easy to access banking wherever you are. The commitment is simple: “world-class service, worldwide access.”

Whether you’re opening your first checking account, buying a home, planning for retirement or managing a business, Global provides tools and guidance built with you in mind. With streamlined accounts, mobile and online banking that let you bank anytime, anywhere, and a network of more than 55,000 surcharge-free ATMs, your money works on your terms.

But Global isn’t just about technology - it’s about people. When you call, you talk with a real person, anytime. When you set a goal, you get a partner. The Member Service Center is open 24/7/365 and supports your life in motion.

Global also believes a strong community builds stronger finances. Through volunteering, fundraising and education, the credit union reinvests in the places and people it serves - so your membership carries more than banking benefits.

By bringing together local roots and wide-reaching service, Global Credit Union gives you the tools to navigate today’s needs and tomorrow’s milestones.

We are Invested in Alaska Communities

As Alaska’s Community Bank, we work to improve economic vitality and quality of life in Alaska. We are proud to support the Gold Pan Awards and congratulate the finalists. northrim.com I (907) 562-0062

Camp Fire Alaska has been a cornerstone of youth development and family support in Alaska for more than 110 years. Founded in 1913, the organization’s mission is that “Every child will have the opportunity to find the best in themselves and others in a fun, safe, learning environment”.

As Alaska’s largest licensed childcare provider, Camp Fire Alaska operates 18 afterschool programs, serving over 650 children daily. Their accredited summer camp programs oper ate statewide, serving thousands of youth annually from Anchorage to the Kenai to Western Alaska. With over 100 year-round and 60 seasonal employees, the organization plays a vital role in supporting Anchorage’s workforce by ensuring families have access to dependable, high-quality childcare, a cornerstone of economic growth.

In recent years, Camp Fire Alaska has been instrumental in statewide advocacy efforts that support the broader sector of child care, after school, and summer camp programs. These efforts have led to expand ed child care assistance for families attending accredited summer camps and increased investments into school-age and summer camp programs. Through partnerships with organizations like thread and the Alaska Afterschool Network, they are continuing to help shape public investment and policy changes that strengthen the entire childcare sector.

Camp Fire Alaska’s continued expansion of new programs and over 200 childcare slots in just two years, demonstrates resilience and commitment to Anchorage’s families. Their dedication to community service, innovation, and collaboration ensures that Alaska’s children, families, and employers thrive together.

Awarded for excellence and inclusion at local, state, and national lev els, Camp Fire Alaska exemplifies community service through action, compassion, and lasting impact.

FEEL GOOD WITH ’S

NON-PROFIT ABOVE & BEYOND

“I was so lost, I didn’t know what to do, but AWAIC gave me confidence that I can do this on my own.”

Abused Women’s Aid in Crisis, Inc (AWAIC) is Alaska’s largest domestic violence shelter, serving the Anchorage community and survivors from around the state for nearly 50 years. At the heart of AWAIC’s mission is the belief that everyone deserves to live free from fear and violence.

AWAIC operates a 67-bed safe shelter and offers a full range of supportive services, including advocacy, case management, safety planning, and assistance accessing housing, legal, and financial resources, helping survivors rebuild their lives with dignity and hope. “AWAIC lets us have freedom to feel at home even though we are living with strangers.”

In Fiscal Year 2025, AWAIC served more than 1,000 adults and children, provided over 68,000 meals, and responded to nearly 15,000 crisis calls, each one representing a moment of courage and connection. AWAIC’s 24-hour crisis and support line ensures help is always available, with trained advocates offering immediate safety planning, resources, and compassionate support.

Through prevention programs, community education, and partnerships across Alaska, AWAIC works to break the cycle of violence and build safer, stronger communities.

If you or someone you know needs help, call AWAIC’s 24-hour crisis line at 907-272-0100 to connect with a trained advocate. You are not alone.

Catholic Social Services Alaska (CSS), founded in 1966, is one of Alaska’s largest social-service agencies and serves as the socialservice arm of the Archdiocese of Anchorage-Juneau. The mission of Catholic Social Services is “to promote the physical, spiritual and mental welfare of persons in need in the community.” Anchored in principles of reverence for humanity, striving for excellence, empowering personal fulfillment, and strengthening community through collaboration, CSS has become a trusted leader in delivering care, dignity, and hope across Anchorage.

Rooted in these values, CSS provides a continuum of care that meets both immediate and long-termneeds. Through its shelters, including the Brother Francis Shelter, Clare House, and Complex Care Shelter, CSS offers safety, comfort, and hope to more than 2,300 individuals each year. Integrated case management connects clients with stable housing and behavioral health services. The Behavioral Health team, serving roughly 20 percent of shelter guests, provides personalized, trauma-informed support that helps individuals regain stability and move toward independence.

CSS also strengthens food security and community connection. The St. Francis House Food Pantry nourishes thousands of families each year, while Refugee Assistance & Immigration Services guides newcomers in building new lives through housing, employment, and community integration. The 3rd Avenue Resource & Navigation Center serves as a central hub, helping clients access multiple programs and connecting them with community collaborators who share CSS’s commitment to dignity and hope.

Every day, CSS staff and volunteers embody compassion in action, walking alongside neighbors on their journey to stability. Serving nearly 19,000 Alaskans each year, Catholic Social Services transforms lives, uplifts families, and fosters a more resilient community. Its integrated programs and compassionate service reflect a commitment not only to meeting immediate needs, but also to empowering individuals, promoting long-term stability, and giving every person the opportunity to thrive.

Founded to empower young girls in the Anchorage and Matanuska-Susitna region, Girls on the Run Southcentral Alaska (GOTR SCAK) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to helping girls in 3rd through 8th grade discover their inner strength, build meaningful relationships, and develop lifelong habits of health and joy.

Over the course of 8-10 week seasons, teams meet twice weekly under the guidance of trained coaches who lead curriculum. The program uses running and movement as both a metaphor and a method for growth. Through engaging games, team discussions, and a culminating celebratory 5K event, participants not only improve their physical fitness but also strengthen their self-confidence, teamwork, emotional resilience, and commitment to community service.

GOTR SCAK’s inclusive approach ensures that the program is accessible to girls of all abilities and backgrounds. Scholarships are available to remove financial barriers, allowing every participant the opportunity to take part. Since its establishment in 2011, the organization has positively impacted more than 2,400 girls throughout Southcentral Alaska, helping them recognize that they are “unstoppable” and empowering them to activate their limitless potential.

Beyond serving the girls directly, GOTR SCAK fosters deep community engagement. Adult volunteers serve as coaches and “running buddies,” local schools host teams, and community service projects designed and led by the girls strengthen their connection to the neighborhoods they call home. This unique combination of physical activity, social-emotional learning, and community involvement creates a holistic experience that extends far beyond the finish line.

Rooted in the spirit of Alaska’s rugged landscape and strong sense of community, Girls on the Run Southcentral Alaska stands as a powerful movement for growth, joy, and empowerment. Whether running a 5K or finding their voice in a supportive group setting, each girl in the program is equipped with the tools and confidence to boldly pursue her dreams. Proud to

Since 1971, IMIG Audio/Video has had the privilege of supporting Alaska’s events, conferences, and celebrations.

Thank you, Anchorage. We’re honored to be part of your story.

ENTREPRENEURIAL EXCELLENCE

Brittani Clancey is the founder and driving force behind FashionPact, a trailblazing Alaska-based thrift boutique that merges entrepreneurship, innovation, and community purpose. In just four years, Brittani has grown FashionPact from a single-employee startup into a thriving enterprise with two locations, 11 employees, and over 100 nonprofit partners across Anchorage.

FashionPact operates on a completely unique, first-of-its-kind model—one that redefines what it means to shop sustainably and give locally. With every purchase, 30% goes directly back to local charities, and the choice of where that money goes is made by FashionPact’s patrons themselves. Shoppers and donors each select the nonprofit they wish to support, creating a participatory, community-driven approach that empowers individuals to make a tangible impact every time they shop or donate.

Under Brittani’s leadership, this innovative model has raised and donated over $500,000 for local causes while keeping thousands of pounds of goods out of Alaska’s landfills. Her creative business strategy has turned thrift into a sustainable economic engine—benefiting both Anchorage’s environment and its nonprofit ecosystem.

When FashionPact’s original store collapsed in 2023, Brittani’s entrepreneurial spirit transformed crisis into opportunity. She swiftly rebuilt, expanding into two new locations and strengthening her team and operations. This resilience, paired with her bold vision for community-centered retail, has positioned FashionPact as a model for impact-driven growth.

Recognized as Anchorage Daily News’ “Best of Alaska – Favorite Clothing Store (2025)”, SPCA’s Largest Business Donor Ever (2025), and AFP’s Outstanding Small Business in Philanthropy (2023), Brittani Clancey exemplifies Entrepreneurial Excellence—proving that innovation, leadership, and compassion can thrive together to create lasting change.

Aspire Med Spa, located in Anchorage, Alaska, was founded by Marisa Scott, RNFA, with a vision to blend science and beauty while redefining the standard of modern self-care. In just its second year of business, Aspire has quickly earned recognition as a leader in medical wellness and aesthetic innovation. Aspire has become known for its dedication to education, client experience, and advanced, results-driven treatments designed to help each individual look and feel their best.

Aspire Med Spa specializes in body contouring and wellness, dermal filler, neurotoxins, RFmicroneedling, laser treatments, and medical weight loss programs, among other customized services. Every treatment is performed with precision by a team of highly trained medical and aesthetic professionals who share a commitment to safety, integrity, and personalized care. This client-centered approach ensures that each person who walks through Aspire’s doors feels understood, valued, and confident in their journey toward self-improvement.

Under the leadership of founder and CEO Marisa Scott, Aspire has built a reputation grounded in professionalism and compassion. Marisa’s extensive background in healthcare and surgery, combined with her entrepreneurial drive, has shaped Aspire’s identity as a trusted destination for medical-grade wellness.

Aspire Med Spa is proud to give back to the local community through charitable donations and partnerships that support causes across Alaska. As an active member of the Anchorage Chamber of Commerce, Aspire continues to foster growth, connection, and collaboration within the community.

Through science, compassion, and expertise, Aspire Med Spa remains devoted to elevating confidence, promoting wellness, and inspiring self-care for all.

Make a difference in a way that ignites YOUR spark Ways to support our mission:

Sweet Caribou is an Alaskan family patisserie and cafe. We use high-quality ingredients, strive to source locally, and believe in top-shelf service to our customers and our community. We make everything from scratch to create locavore lunch bowls, artisan desserts, and delectable sandwiches. Sweet Caribou has thrived providing high quality grab-n-go food for the busy Alaskan, providing free delivery anywhere in Anchorage. It has grown from a tiny booth at the farmers market to its midtown and airport locations

Sweet Caribou was founded through the vision of life-long Alaskan James Strong, who worked his way up from a busboy at the Moose’s Tooth to manager of the Bear Tooth in college. He left the restaurant industry and earned his Master’s in Fisheries Management, publishing a book on the pollock fishery. He was working on his PhD, but the food and fun of the restaurant biz enticed him to start Sweet Caribou (named after a hunting trip to Adak).

Sweet Caribou is heavily involved in the Anchorage community, providing contributions to hundreds of local charities and organizations. They regularly donate food to Brother Francis shelter, and prides itself in providing positive employment to the local community. Their 50+ employees make a living wage, and benefit through the success of the business as profits are split with employees. They maintain a diverse workforce, including persons with disabilities and Ukrainian refugees.

Sweet Caribou is honored to be a finalist for the prestigious Gold Pan Awards!

Empower Her to Run Toward Her Dreams!

Your donation helps provide program scholarships, running shoes, and the chance for every girl no matter her background to cross the finish line with pride

✨ Donate today to help a girl discover limitless potential! ✨

Inspire girls to discover their strength, build confidence, and celebrate what makes them unique! No running experience needed just energy, compassion, and a desire to make a difference! ✨ Join us and empower the next generationone stride at a time! ✨

Bring the power of Girls on the Run to your school or community! As a site host, you provide a safe, fun space for girls to learn, grow, and run toward confidence We’ll give you all the tools and support you need to get started.

Help girls in your community shine host a site today!✨

Learn more: www.gotrsouthcentralak.org Contact us: Director@gotrsouthcentralak org

BUSINESS EXCELLENCE

Founded in 2014, Alaska Wealth Advisors is a premier financial planning and investment management firm dedicated to empowering individuals and families in Anchorage and across Alaska to achieve financial confidence and security. With a team of 25 dedicated professionals, the firm has achieved remarkable sustained growth, expanding assets under management from $130 million to over $1 billion and successfully guiding over 900 clients on their financial journeys.

Alaska Wealth Advisors stands out in the industry through its unwavering commitment to its foundational T.E.A.C.H. values and a truly client-centric, fee-only fiduciary model. This approach ensures objective advice, free from commission conflicts, and sets a high ethical standard in the Anchorage business community. The firm provides innovative access to institutional-level investment management for individual clients, democratizing sophisticated financial tools. Furthermore, they possess deep, specialized knowledge for serving professionals in key local sectors, including the medical and oil & gas industries.

Beyond its excellent services, the firm is deeply invested in developing Anchorage’s economic vitality and talent. The firm operates a long-standing paid internship and scholarship program with the University of Alaska, actively building a local pipeline of skilled professionals, many of whom have been retained as full-time employees in the state. The firm’s professionals dedicate significant time and expertise to holding leadership positions in groups such as the Anchorage Estate Planning Council, ATHENA Anchorage, Anchorage Community Land Trust, and the YWCA Alaska, among many others, thereby contributing to professional standards and fostering diverse leadership.

This commitment to both operational excellence and community stewardship was recently demonstrated by the successful employee-owned internal succession plan, a courageous decision that preserved the firm’s independence, culture, and deep local roots for decades to come, ensuring the firm remains a pillar of the Anchorage business landscape.

Katmai Oncology Group has been providing community-based cancer care in Alaska since 1979, making it one of the state’s longest-standing private oncology and hematology practices. The organization is dedicated to delivering exceptional, compassionate care close to home. With clinics in Anchorage and Eagle River, Katmai provides comprehensive treatment including chemotherapy, immunotherapy, targeted therapy, and supportive care—all with a personalized, team-based approach that treats each patient as an individual.

At the heart of Katmai’s philosophy is its mission: “We do not just treat your cancer, we work as a team to provide a seamless continuum of care to make cancer treatment and recovery effective, convenient, and accommodating – one patient at a time.” This mission reflects the practice’s commitment to pairing medical excellence with compassion, communication, and coordination— helping patients and families navigate every step of their cancer journey.

Katmai Oncology Group is the only QOPI® Certified oncology practice in Southcentral Alaska, recognized by the American Society of Clinical Oncology for meeting the highest national standards for quality, safety, and patient care. Over 45 years, Katmai has expanded its provider team, opened a second location, and enhanced patient services with the addition of an in-house pharmacy and laboratory. Its physicians hold key leadership roles across Alaska’s medical community, advancing cancer care through research, education, and collaboration. Beyond the clinic, Katmai supports local causes including the Alaska Run for Women, Hospice Gala, and Anchorage Wine & Food Festival. Through service, leadership, and compassion, Katmai Oncology Group continues to make a lasting impact—embodying business excellence through dedication to patients, staff, and the health of Alaska.

Copper River Seafoods was co-founded in 1996 by fourth-generation commercial seafood harvester Scott Blake. Over the past 30 years, Copper River Seafoods has grown from the original four vessels to a fleet of thousands, all individually owned by fishermen and their families, and into a company that represents one of the most well-known seafood brands in the world today. Through all of that growth, the mission remains the same: be true to Alaska fishermen, harness the power of the Copper River, and sell the best food in the world.

The company’s deep roots in Alaska and commitment to in-state food manufacturing set them apart. Copper River Seafoods operates primary processing facilities in Cordova and Naknek, plus statewide buying stations in Homer, Kotzebue, Seward, and Whittier. In Anchorage, the company maintains three major locations: a yearround food manufacturing facility, a summer salmon processing plant, and one of the largest cold storage facilities in the city. Employing hundreds of year-round Alaska residents, Copper River Seafoods provides jobs and essential support to commercial fishermen statewide.

From modest beginnings in Cordova, Alaska, Copper River Seafoods now processes millions of pounds of seafood annually. But the company is more than a seafood processor; it is a food manufacturer dedicated to delivering high-quality products from Alaska’s waters to the world. The company’s focus on quality, competitive pricing, sustainability, traceability, food safety, and direct access to resources has helped ensure long-term success and strong partnerships in the seafood business.

Copper River Seafoods remains steadfast in its mission to bring wild Alaskan seafood to the world while preserving the traditions, communities, and environment that sustain it. The company’s continued innovation and respect for Alaska’s fishing heritage reflect the same values that have guided it since 1996— and those values will continue to shape its future.

PAST WINNERS

2024

Business Excellence: Locally Grown Restaurants

Community Service Large: GCI

Community Service Small: Photo Emporium

Entrepreneurial Excellence: Balanced CPAs

Non-Profit Above & Beyond: Big Brothers Big Sisters of Alaska

Volunteer of the Year: Cameron Morrison

2023

Business Excellence: LifeMed Alaska

Community Service Large: Alaska Military Youth Academy

Community Service Small: Wilderness Adventures for Kids Everywhere

Entrepreneurial Excellence: Alaska Chip Company

Non-Profit Above & Beyond: Hospice of Anchorage

Volunteer of the Year: Logan Burt

Chairman’s Award: Bruce Bustamante

2022

Business Excellence:

Chugach Alaska Corp

Community Service Large:

Nuvision Credit Union

Community Service Small: Zip Kombucha

Entrepreneurial Excellence: Aspire Realty

Non-Profit Above & Beyond:

S.T.A.R.

Volunteer of the Year: Laura Dean

President’s Award: Tim Thompson

2021

Business Excellence: Channel 2 / CBS 5

Community Service Large: Matson

Community Service Small: Anchorage Downtown Partnership

Entrepreneurial Excellence: Alaska Disinfection Services

Volunteer of the Year: Tana Skye Nevada

President’s Award: Joy Merriner

The Anchorage Chamber of Commerce is a non-profit business organization with nearly 800 members representing roughly 40,000 employees. Membership in the Anchorage Chamber signals your commitment to your personal success, the success of your business and/or organization and to the quality of life in Anchorage. Help “advance a successful business climate” with the Anchorage Chamber through Advocacy, Education, and Connectivity.

The Anchorage Chamber recognizes all 2025 Gold Pan finalists and all of you who work to make Anchorage a better place to live, work and do business.

THANK YOU! 2025 GOLD PAN PLANNING COMMITTEE

Charissa Habeger

Cameron Morrison

Jessica Kopischke

Skye Nevada

ANCHORAGE CHAMBER STAFF

Kathleen McArdle

President/CEO

Tosha Swan Pereira Chief Operations Officer

Brooklynn Spooner

Events Manager

Sabrina Hamilton

Membership Development Manager

Jacki Oliver Member & Events Associate

THANK YOU, VENDORS:

Dena’ina Center

Toast of the Town

Photo Emporium

Kapturing Klassics

Landsick Media

IMIG A/V

Bovey Trophies

Blue Dixie Band

TIER I CHAMBER LEVEL MEMBERS:

Alaska Airlines, Inc.

Alaska Regional Hospital

Atwood Foundation

ConocoPhillips Alaska Matson Systemcenter

TIER II EXECUTIVE LEVEL MEMBERS:

Alaska Native Tribal Health Consortium

Alyeska Pipeline Service Co.

Anchorage School District

CIRI

FedEx Express

First National Bank Alaska

Furniture Enterprises of Alaska

Nuvision Credit Union

Providence Alaska Medical Center

Safeway, Inc.

THANK YOU, GAMES OF GIVING DONORS:

Alaska Airlines

Alaska Railroad Corporation

Alyeska Resort

Anchorage Distillery

Anchorage Wolverines

Aspire Med Spa

Brown Jug

Carlos Pereira Art

Costco Business Center

Crush Bistro

Gumbo House

Hotel Captain Cook

Louisiana Hot Sauce

Tabasco Hot Sauce

The Wildbirch Hotel + Crimson

THANK YOU, SPONSORS!

CONNECT WITH US!

Share photos of you and your guests, send kudos to the nominees and winners, and share your Broadway-inspired attire via social media. Be sure to tag @anchoragechamber the hashtag #GoldPan2025. CENTERPIECE OFFICIAL TOAST SPONSOR:

Providence Imaging Center

We’re proud to support Anchorage Chamber of Commerce

Providence Imaging Center’s Mobile Mammography team congratulates all 2025 Gold Pan Award finalists and winners.

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