Former director, longtime Native leader Gil Gunderson passes away
Thursday, December 23, 2021
Sealaska is saddened to learn that Gilbert “Gil” Gunderson passed away, Dec. 22. Sealaska sends its heartfelt condolences to the Gunderson family and all those who so dearly loved Gil, for their loss.
Gil served as a director on Sealaska’s board from 1972 to 1987. He was a known throughout Southeast Alaska as a commercial fisherman and a fierce advocate for our people through his service as a Sealaska director. Originally from Wrangell, Gil was one of the original members of Sealaska’s inaugural board of directors serving for five terms.
Marlene Johnson, who served as Chair of the Sealaska Board of Directors when Gil Gunderson was on the Sealaska board, credits him as a dedicated leader who brought his skills as a successful commercial fisherman and businessman to the board as well as his knowledge of Southeast Alaska communities. “We were fortunate to have him as a board member,” said Johnson.
Gilbert was Tlingit, Yeil (Raven), Kaach.ádi (Frog)
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Posted 7/28/2025
Posted 7/28/2025
Aak’w Kwáan (Juneau, Alaska) — Sealaska is reaffirming its deep commitment to cultural preservation, language revitalization, and youth empowerment through a series of initiatives affirmed at a recent Board of Directors meeting that honor its Tlingit, Haida, and Tsimshian roots while advancing the future of its people. The corporation is donating five premium red cedar logs to the community…
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Posted 6/21/2025
Posted 6/21/2025
We are excited to announce that the results of the 2025 Sealaska election have been certified and are ready to share with all of you.
Posted 6/3/2025
Posted 6/3/2025
We are continuing our search for a dynamic and visionary leader to serve as Sealaska’s president. It is important that we find the right candidate to fill this position, which is why the Sealaska board of directors is being as exacting as possible as we search for a candidate capable of amplifying the impact of our mission and providing benefits that empower our shareholders. To this end, the Sealaska board of directors recently revised the job description for the position of president and sought the assistance of a professional recruiting firm. Our hope is to announce a successful candidate as our new president this coming summer.
Posted 4/29/2025
Posted 4/29/2025
KETCHIKAN, Alaska, April 29, 2025 — Sealaska’s board of directors has approved funding for the reconstruction of the traditional clan house for the Kiks.ádi people of the X’aaká Hít (Point House), on their recently repatriated land in the Sitka Indian Village. This will be the first clan house to be rebuilt in Southeast Alaska in the 21st century. Where there were once 43 active clan houses…
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Posted 4/21/2025
Posted 4/21/2025
Gunalchéesh to those who were able to attend our April 9 Community Business and Shareholder Information Meeting in beloved Ḵaachx̱an.áak’w. Our booths were filled with the great smiles of over 74 shareholders and their families attending. During the event, shareholders had the opportunity to learn about Sealaska’s businesses, engage with Sealaska leadership — including the full board — and enjoy…
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Posted 3/10/2025
Posted 3/10/2025
BLM finalizes transfer of culturally significant Ḵunáa site after nearly 50 years Sealaska Corporation announced the successful conveyance of the Redoubt Bay Village (Ḵunáa) historical site from the Bureau of Land Management (BLM), marking the culmination of a nearly 50-year effort to secure this culturally significant land under Alaska Native stewardship. The 10.54-acre site…
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Posted 2/7/2025
Posted 2/7/2025
KETCHIKAN, Alaska—The Sealaska Board of Directors is holding its first meeting of 2025 in Ketchikan this week, reinforcing its commitment to deepening connections with communities and partner organizations as we work together to create balance for people and the planet. Strong partnerships with local organizations across our shareholders’ communities remain central to Sealaska’s mission.
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Posted 12/13/2024
Posted 12/13/2024
We are pleased to announce that Tlingit & Haida Executive Council and Sealaska board of directors met to engage in meaningful discussions on issues that matter most to tribal citizens and shareholders. This collaborative meeting was an important step toward finding pathways to create mutually beneficial outcomes while strengthening entities to better serve people and communities.
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Posted 10/28/2024
Posted 10/28/2024
Gunalchéesh Anax X’aséigu Yé Desiree Jackson for offering us this insight into One Sealaska and the many avenues of our community-focused work! We are working hard to provide our shareholders with a comprehensive understanding of all we do, focusing always on strengthening our people, culture and homelands. Through Woocheen, we promote ocean health, renewable energy and a holistic vision of…
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Posted 9/6/2024
Posted 9/6/2024
Sealaska Board Names Richard Tashee Rinehart as board chair Leadership decision emphasize value for shareholders, Southeast Alaska Sealaska’s board of directors made Richard Tashee Rinehart the company’s new board chair during Thursday’s board meeting in Klawock. The board also appointed Terry Downes, current CEO of Sealaska business arm Woocheen, as Sealaska’s CEO.
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Posted 8/30/2024
Posted 8/30/2024
Sealaska interns unload after a long journey to Howkan, a traditional Haida village site. Sealaska interns left to right: Evan Link, Operations Fellow at Icemar; Allison Mills, Natural Resources Intern at Sealaska; Addy Mallot, Storytelling & Engagement Intern at Sustainable Southeast Partnership; and Alicia Maryott, Traditional Food Security Intern at Tlingit & Haida Earlier this summer…
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Posted 8/27/2024
Posted 8/27/2024
Story and photography by Christian Gomez Sealaska’s Natural Resources team recently met with members of the U.S. Forest Service (USFS) and local carvers on Prince of Wales Island for a three-day cedar tree inventory workshop. This collaboration, focused on scouting USFS land for cedar trees suitable for large-scale cultural art such as totem poles and canoes, marks a significant step in…
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Posted 8/13/2024
Posted 8/13/2024
The Sealaska board of directors met on Friday, July 26 to welcome new board members and receive updates from the management team. The board focused on efforts for long-term strategic planning, led by the management team, with a goal of strengthening Sealaska’s internal team, vision for the future and community partnerships. This strategic planning will continue at the September meeting…
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Posted 6/29/2024
Posted 6/29/2024
A majority of Sealaska’s 26,000 shareholders voted to approve two resolutions at the 51st annual meeting of shareholders in Sitka on Saturday. Resolution One, a binding resolution to update outdated language in the corporation’s Articles of Incorporation, passed with, 70.77% of the outstanding voting shares represented at the meeting voted in favor. 61.49% of the outstanding voting shares…
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Posted 5/6/2024
Posted 5/6/2024
Frederiksen shares in Sealaska’s vision for the region: a thriving future for Southeast Alaska. Derik Frederiksen believes in the people of Southeast Alaska — and with this belief comes excitement about the future of both people and place. With over 20 years of experience serving Sealaska’s operations in the region and beyond, his energy, ideas and on-the-ground insight will serve to catalyze…
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Posted 5/2/2024
Posted 5/2/2024
Sitka Indian Village and its Clan Houses proudly announce their nomination for prestigious national and statewide historic preservation lists. The nominations include recognition on the National Trust’s “11 Most Endangered Historic Places” and the Alaska Association of Historic Preservations’ “10 Most Endangered Historic Properties.” Sitka Indian Village, first built in the 1820s…
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Posted 3/5/2024
Posted 3/5/2024
A focus on strategy, values and excellence has led Desiree Anax x’aséigu yé Jackson to her new role as Sealaska’s Vice President of Administration and Outreach. Jackson has served as the executive director of Goldbelt Heritage Foundation for the past three years, and in key roles at Tlingit Haida Regional Housing Authority and the Southeast Alaska Regional Health Consortium prior.
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Posted 3/4/2024
Posted 3/4/2024
Members of Sealaska’s board of directors had an opportunity to connect with shareholders and answer questions during the Feb. 29 board Q&A session hosted on MySealaska. Directors Barbara Cadiente Nelson, Ka’illjuus Lisa Lang joined Executive Chair Joe Nelson and Board Youth Advisor Deikeenaak’w Connor Ulmer in providing an update following January’s board meeting and shared upcoming opportunities…
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Posted 2/7/2024
Posted 2/7/2024
Sealaska’s Naxtoo.aat/Wayi Wah/Hágwsdaa (Let’s Go!) policy committee hosted a virtual shareholder update on Tuesday, Feb. 6, 2024 for an audience of over 170 shareholders. The event was focused on Sealaska’s policy priorities for the 2024 year and offered shareholders an opportunity to learn more about ongoing initiatives, supportive advocacy and how they can get involved on an individual level.
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Posted 2/1/2024
Posted 2/1/2024
Sealaska is now accepting applications for 2024-2025 language grants, which support efforts to preserve Sm’algyax, X̱aad Kíl and Lingít. Applications will be accepted on a rolling basis until all funds are allocated. Learn more and apply at https://sealaska.com/stories/language-revitalization/. Sealaska’s investment in languages is made possible by a $10 million endowment…
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Posted 12/21/2023
Posted 12/21/2023
Dear Shareholders, Serving Sealaska has been one of my life’s great honors, and I am filled with gratitude for the years we have spent together, through my nine years of service as president and CEO and the eight years prior as your chief investment officer. In the weeks since my departure was announced, I have been humbled by your kindness and resolve to keep working together toward our…
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Posted 12/7/2023
Posted 12/7/2023
On a sunny October afternoon in Spokane, Washington, over 2,500 Indigenous students were gathered to attend the 2023 American Indian Science and Engineering Society (AISES) National Conference. Among them were a cohort of more than 100 Sealaska and Sealaka Heritage Institute (SHI) sponsored college and high school students, Alaska Youth Stewards crew members, and Southeast Alaska educators…
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Posted 11/1/2023
Posted 11/1/2023
Sealaska, in partnership with the Organized Village of Kasaan (OVK) and the U.S. Forest Service (USFS) out of Thorne Bay and Craig, spent a week out on Sealaska lands in West Polk inlet this August, working to locate red and yellow cedar trees. The goal of the visit was to identify trees suited to serve as “monumental logs” in support of cultural community projects. The project is part…
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Posted 10/31/2023
Posted 10/31/2023
Look for link to download portraits at the bottom. The smell of sanded cedar filled the Steele Gallery at the Heard Museum on October 28. About 40 Sealaska shareholders, all at once, were sanding their own small dance paddles in preparation for painted formline designed by Tlingit master artist Doug Chilton. The sound of 40 people sanding at once echoed through the facility.
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Posted 10/25/2023
Posted 10/25/2023
Southeast Alaska Native leaders call on other Pacific leaders to sign declaration, a symbol of collaboration and commitment toward shared goals surrounding climate justice. As the Moananuiākea voyage circumnavigates the Pacific Ocean over the next four years, communities around the Pacific Ocean will welcome their canoe, the Hōkūleʻa, to port. All are invited to join Southeast Alaska Native…
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Posted 9/27/2023
Posted 9/27/2023
On September 26, a virtual shareholder event focused on Sealaska’s policy efforts and how the company advocates for our traditional way of life. The Sealaska Policy Committee, known as Naxtoo.aat/Wayi Wah/Hágwsdaa – which translates to “Let’s Go!” in Lingít, Sm’algyax, and Xaad Kíl – was established by the board to drive change and ensure that shareholder priorities are met at the local, state…
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Posted 8/16/2023
Posted 8/16/2023
In 2019, Sealaska established three Shareholder Participation Committees (SPC), with a goal of increasing communication and collaboration between the board of directors and the shareholders they serve. Now in their fourth year, these committees offer an opportunity for Sealaska to strengthen engagement between shareholders and the board and build relationships between communities and those who…
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Posted 8/2/2023
Posted 8/2/2023
“Indigenous Resistance: Now & Then” is a powerful telling of stories of resistance from Indigenous perspectives, sharing recent history and the impacts of colonialism on culture – and the ways in which our communities continue to stand up against it. Sealaska shareholders can preview it here until August 8. This award-winning short documentary by Haida director ‘Wáats’asdiyei Joe Yates stands in…
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Posted 7/17/2023
Posted 7/17/2023
It’s that time of year again! Bring OUR VALUES to life during the 2023 #SealaskaWayOfLife photo contest for a chance to win prizes. The contest begins Monday, July 17 and submissions will be accepted through Friday, August 11. Storytelling is at the heart of who we are at Sealaska. We want to continue to tell our story from your vantage point. Introduced in 2020 as a way to foster…
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Posted 7/13/2023
Posted 7/13/2023
Each year, Sealaska’s board of directors appoints a young adult shareholder or shareholder descendant to the position of Board Youth Advisor (BYA). By serving in this role, young shareholders and descendants can share their perspectives and insight with the board, creating powerful impact while learning the ins and outs of the board room and leadership role. In 2023, changes to the term length…
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Posted 7/10/2023
Posted 7/10/2023
by Evan Roberts, Shareholder Development Intern In the week leading up to Sealaska’s 2023 annual meeting of shareholders in Klawock, a group of seven interns traveled to Prince of Wales to learn about Sealaska’s community-driven work. 2023 celebrates the launch of Sealaska Abroad — Sealaska’s international internship program. The three students who will be working with Sealaska subsidiary New…
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Posted 7/6/2023
Posted 7/6/2023
In early June, Sealaska welcomed 35 students from across Alaska and the rest of the country to Juneau for the 2023 Sealaska Intern Connect Week — five days full of learning and bonding for Sealaska’s 2023 intern class. For the next few months, Sealaska’s interns will embark on different projects across the country — and globe — spanning diverse fields, from finance and investment to cultural…
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Posted 6/24/2023
Posted 6/24/2023
Sealaska’s 50th annual meeting of shareholders concluded Saturday in Klawock with the results of Sealaska’s annual election to fill available seats on the company’s board of directors. Over 300 shareholders attended the in-person meeting in Klawock, with nearly 1,500 shareholders joining via the online livestream on MySealaska. This year, four seats were available, and four board-endorsed…
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Posted 6/9/2023
Posted 6/9/2023
The community of Klawock, located on Prince of Wales Island, is surrounded by water, rivers and streams that are home to salmon runs that have nourished the community for thousands of years. Over the past two decades, salmon returns have dramatically decreased, motivating the community to investigate the root causes and find potential solutions to help improve fish habitat in the area…
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Posted 6/5/2023
Posted 6/5/2023
Sealaska’s Haa Aaní Board of Directors held its quarterly board meeting in Klawock on Thursday, June 1 to discuss land management strategies and review operational goals for the year. Haa Aaní is responsible for Sealaska’s land holdings in Southeast Alaska, including land management activities such as ensuring access for hunting and fishing through road maintenance and other infrastructure…
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Posted 6/5/2023
Posted 6/5/2023
Join Sealaska as we welcome and bid farewell to Hōkūle’a and our Hawaiian relatives of the Polynesian Voyage Society (PVS) while they embark on the Moananuiākea Voyage, a four-year journey across the pacific, from the stores of our ancestral homelands. A tribal welcome ceremony will take place on Saturday, June 10 from 3-7 p.m. at the Auke Rec Raven Shelter, kicking off a week…
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Posted 5/15/2023
Posted 5/15/2023
Gunalchéesh, Háw’aa, T’oya̱xsut ‘nüüsm to all the shareholders who participated our California and Anchorage and Seattle community meetings, as well as those who tuned into the webcast of the Anchorage meeting and our virtual business update. We appreciate your engagement and participation. We look forward to connecting with more shareholders at upcoming in-person and virtual community meetings…
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Posted 5/10/2023
Posted 5/10/2023
Gunalchéesh, Háw’aa, T’oya̱xsut ‘nüüsm to the more than 500 shareholders who joined us last night at the webcast of the Anchorage community meeting. We appreciated your patience with our technical issues along with your continued good humor and engagement. Sealaska looks forward to connecting with more shareholders at upcoming in-person and virtual community meetings and events throughout the…
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Posted 5/3/2023
Posted 5/3/2023
Additions to Board of Trustees will help support vision to make Juneau the world’s Northwest Coast arts capital. In a recent meeting, the Sealaska Board of Directors appointed Karen Taug, Vicki Soboleff, ‘Wáahlaal Gíidaak Barbara Blake and Ka’illjuus Lisa Lang to serve alongside Chair Marlene Johnson, La quen náay Liz Medicine Crow, Barbara Cadiente Nelson, Marcella Asicksik…
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Posted 4/19/2023
Posted 4/19/2023
The Sealaska Board supports the LGBTQIA2S+ community, language grants and community donations through board action at the April board meeting. The Sealaska Board of Directors approved several important resolutions at a board meeting on Friday, April 14. The meeting was held on Sheet’ka Kwaan (Sitka) in a gesture of support for the critical work being done by the Herring Protectors to…
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Posted 3/24/2023
Posted 3/24/2023
Sealaska is proud to welcome the Moananuiākea Voyage to the traditional lands of the A’akw and Taku Kwaan people this summer. The Moananuiākea Voyage is a four-year journey by the Polynesian Voyaging Society (PVS) to circumnavigate the Pacific. The voyage’s leaders hope to inspire future navigators while bringing awareness to our changing climate and the impact climate change is having on our…
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Posted 3/1/2023
Posted 3/1/2023
Gunalchéesh, Háw’aa, T’oyaxsut ‘nüüsm to the record-breaking 5,437 shareholders who shared their perspective with Sealaska in this year’s survey. About 22% of our total shareholder base participated in this survey, representing key demographics across the nation. At Sealaska, we’re committed to discovering new ways to best serve our communities. This shareholder communications survey was…
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Posted 1/31/2023
Posted 1/31/2023
At a board meeting held on Friday, Jan. 27, Sealaska’s Board of Directors approved a one-time $250,000 increase in funding for language programming from the Sealaska language fund, bringing this year’s contribution to $750,000. The fund, which was established by Sealaska in 2019, was created with a goal of increasing proficiency of advanced learners of Southeast Alaska’s three Indigenous…
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Posted 1/13/2023
Posted 1/13/2023
“Molly of Denali” is one of the biggest shows on PBS — so big that it was recently nominated for the Children’s and Family Emmys in two categories: Outstanding Preschool Animated Series and Outstanding Writing for a Preschool Animated Program. The team behind that outstanding writing includes four Sealaska shareholders: Frank Henry Kaash Katasse, Vera Starbard, X̱’unei Lance Twitchell and ‘Wáats’…
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Posted 1/9/2023
Posted 1/9/2023
Happy New Year! As we greet 2023, we at Sealaska also invite you to join us in reflecting on the 2022 year. In 2022, we celebrated 50 years; made strides toward our goal of ocean health; and continued on the path of financial stability despite continued investment market challenges. There is much to be thankful for: our hardworking employees, our creative, collaborative partners and our…
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Posted 12/14/2022
Posted 12/14/2022
More than 2,300 shareholders — nearly 10 percent of Sealaska’s shareholder base! — participated in Sealaska’s virtual holiday party held on Wednesday, Dec. 14. Shareholders and their families gathered from their homes and phones to celebrate the magic of the season and learn more about the past year’s achievements. The event included door prizes, seasonal greetings from Sealaska’s board of…
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Posted 11/29/2022
Posted 11/29/2022
Sealaska Recognizes Navy Veteran Sylvester “Sonny” Peele III In celebration of Native American and Alaska Native Heritage Month, Sealaska recognizes just a few of our many shareholders who have served in the Armed Forces as part of our #RecognitionMatters Veterans Campaign. American Indian and Alaska Native people have a longstanding tradition of service and sacrifice, as they serve at a…
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Posted 11/17/2022
Posted 11/17/2022
Sealaska Recognizes Combat Veteran Fred Peratrovich In celebration of Native American and Alaska Native Heritage Month, we are recognizing shareholders who have served in the Armed Forces as part of our #RecognitionMatters Veterans Campaign. Today, we recognize U.S. Army combat veteran Fred Peratrovich. Peratrovich was awarded the Army Commendation Medal for his service in the…
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Posted 11/14/2022
Posted 11/14/2022
Happy Dr. Walter Soboleff Day! Today, we recognize the remarkable life and tremendous legacy of Kaajaakwtí Dr. Walter Soboleff, reflecting on one of his most important guiding principles: Sh yáa.awudanéiyi a kwáan – respect people; respect yourself; and other people will respect you. A lifelong Lingít speaker, minister and public servant, Soboleff served on the Sealaska board for nine years.
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Posted 11/11/2022
Posted 11/11/2022
Sealaska mourns the profound loss of former director Aanwoogex’ Ethel Lund, who walked into the forest in the early morning of November 11. She was Tlingit, Yéil (Raven), Teeyhíttaan, born to Carl Lund of Sweden and Martha Ukas of Wrangell and raised by grandparents Tom and Josephine Ukas. Lund was a pioneer of tribal healthcare, using her steadfast determination and gift for healing to lead…
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Posted 11/10/2022
Posted 11/10/2022
Sealaska Recognizes Veteran Aaron Isaacs In celebration of Native American and Alaska Native Heritage Month, we will be recognizing a handful of shareholders that have served in the Armed Forces as part of our #RecognitionMatters Veterans Campaign. The first piece will be published today, in honor of Veterans Day. This story features former Sealaska founding director Aaron Isaacs who served…
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Posted 11/9/2022
Posted 11/9/2022
Sealaska shareholders tuned in from locations around Alaska and the country yesterday to hear an overview of the fall distribution from Sealaska President and CEO Anthony Mallott. The distribution, which was issued to those with direct deposit today, is the third made through the Sealaska Settlement Trust, which was established by shareholder vote in 2021. Mallott was joined by Director…
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Posted 11/7/2022
Posted 11/7/2022
Sealaska published a special edition Shareholder Newsletter. The following was included. Hello shareholders, I would like to welcome our new descendant shareholders to Sealaska and thank all of those who supported removing the blood quantum requirement for descendant stock. It is so important for all our people, no matter their blood quantum, to have a connection to our traditional…
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Posted 10/18/2022
Posted 10/18/2022
Jon Rowan has spent the last 30 years at Klawock City School District leading the Native Arts department. After a long and successful teaching career, he retires this fall, leaving a legacy of community pride. A renowned Tlingit master carver and artist, Rowan was honored at the 2022 STEAM Conference held in Juneau on Friday, Oct. 14. Klawock City School District is a model of incorporating Native…
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Posted 9/14/2022
Posted 9/14/2022
Sealaska hosted a lunchtime policy update on Tuesday, September 13, to provide shareholders with up-to-date information about Sealaska’s public policy efforts. The policy committee, Naxtoo.aat / Wayi Wah / Hágwsdaa – each of which translates loosely to “Let’s Go!” – works to bring forth and advocate for state and federal policies that align with Sealaska’s vision and shareholder priorities.
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Posted 8/15/2022
Posted 8/15/2022
Alaska’s special election and primary election held Tuesday, August 16 Do you have a plan to vote yet? Think about when, where, and how you’ll get there. Alaska polls are open from 7 a.m. – 8 p.m. Reach out to family and friends about the importance of voting. If all Native people vote during a normal turnout year, the Native vote has the ability to influence the direction of our state…
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Posted 8/15/2022
Posted 8/15/2022
Each year Sealaska selects one shareholder descendant to be the Board Youth Advisor (BYA) for a one-year term. The Board Youth Advisor provides valuable input to the Sealaska Board and gains understanding of Sealaska’s operations and mission. The 2022-2023 BYA is Connor Ulmer. Ulmer was born and raised in Dzantik’i Héeni (Juneau). His Tlingit name is Deikeenaak’w (Little Haida)…
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Posted 8/4/2022
Posted 8/4/2022
Program Honors Students with Academic Achievement and Leadership Skills Sealaska Heritage Institute (SHI) has chosen a Ph.D. student with a focus on Alaska Native sovereignty as the recipient of its 2021 Judson L. Brown Leadership Award. The honor was given to Tlingit scholar Breylan Náajeyistláa Martin, who holds a master’s degree from Brown University and is pursuing her doctorate in…
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Posted 7/28/2022
Posted 7/28/2022
Today, Alaska Governor Mike Dunleavy signed House Bill 123, the Alaska Tribal Recognition Act – legislation that generations of Alaska Native advocates have worked tirelessly to bring about. This specific piece of legislation was sponsored by Representative Tiffany Zulkosky of Bethel and championed by Alaska Native leaders from around the state, including Sealaska’s board of directors.
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Posted 7/21/2022
Posted 7/21/2022
Sealaska and its partners in the Seacoast Trust gathered last week in Juneau to celebrate meeting the first major fundraising milestone — $20 million — for the newly created trust. In September of 2021, Sealaska and its partners in the Sustainable Southeast Partnership announced the creation of the trust as a long-term, sustainable and sovereign funding vehicle for SSP. Sealaska’s initial $10…
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Posted 7/11/2022
Posted 7/11/2022
On August 16, Alaska will hold a special election to fill out the remainder of former Congressman Don Young’s term in the U.S. House of Representatives. Alaskans will have three choices to rank in order of preference on the August 16 ballot: Nick Begich, Sarah Palin and Mary Peltola. Sealaska encourages Alaskans to choose Mary Peltola first as they rank the special election candidates.
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Posted 6/25/2022
Posted 6/25/2022
Sealaska shareholders gave strong support to a resolution that will extend eligibility for Class D (Descendant) stock in Sealaska to lineal descendants of original shareholders without respect to their documented Alaska Native blood quantum. Sealaska joins Calista and Arctic Slope Regional Corporation in rejecting the practice of quantifying degree of Indian blood in order to be a…
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Posted 6/23/2022
Posted 6/23/2022
The inaugural Clarence Jackson Sr. Language Awards were presented at the 2022 Annual Meeting of Shareholders. The award recognizes individuals for the tremendous impact on Lingít, Xaad Kíl and Sm’álgyax language revitalization. The first awards recognized Elder/birth speakers. The new Sealaska language awards are named after Galtín Tá Gooch Clarence Jackson Sr. for his championing of language…
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Posted 6/15/2022
Posted 6/15/2022
Sealaska’s more than 23,000 shareholders are invited to join us in person and virtually on Saturday, June 25 for the 2022 Annual Meeting of Shareholders at Centennial Hall in Juneau and streaming live on MySealaska.com. The meeting will include the results of this year’s election for four open seats on the Sealaska board as well as the resolution on this year’s proxy to eliminate the blood…
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Posted 5/23/2022
Posted 5/23/2022
Sealaska announced today that it will award $1.2 million in scholarships to 426 recipients for the 2022-2023 school year. Scholarships were awarded to full- and part-time degree-seeking students as well as students enrolled in vocational-technical programs. Sealaska prioritizes investing in education and is dedicated to supporting Indigenous students seeking to further their education.
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Posted 5/17/2022
Posted 5/17/2022
Alaska’s primary for the special election to fill our open Congressional seat has begun. This seat was held by the late Congressman Don Young for nearly fifty years – and now, forty-eight candidates are running to fill it. This election will be the first to utilize Alaska’s new voting system. The June primary, for which ballots have already been sent, will be conducted primarily by mail.
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Posted 5/2/2022
Posted 5/2/2022
Annual Meeting Prizes
Prize RulesYou do not have to be present to win.Board members, Board nominees, officers and managers of Sealaska Corporation, its subsidiaries, or affiliates and their spouses and minor children are not eligible for the annual meeting and Early Bird drawings. Employees of Sealaska or its affiliates are not eligible for annual meeting door prizes.To be eligible for the Ea...
Posted 5/2/2022
Posted 5/2/2022
Community Meeting Information
Sealaska shareholders are invited to join us at upcoming in-person and virtual community meetings to learn more about Sealaska business operations, candidates running for the board, upcoming opportunities and connect with fellow shareholders and descendants.We hope all interested shareholders find events to attend that work with their schedules and comfort level – whether in person or virtually – and look forward to connecting with you soon!
Posted 4/22/2022
Posted 4/22/2022
#NativeEnough Events
Sealaska is holding a series of events centered on the issue of blood quantum (#NativeEnough). Below is a list of events that have happened or that are scheduled.
Upcoming EventsSave the date! Sealaska will be hosting the next virtual discussion on Native ide...
Posted 4/21/2022
Posted 4/21/2022
Resources
This page hosts a collection of published articles by Sealaska, news organizations, academics, researchers, podcasters and others on the issue of blood quantum. Sealaska Blood Quantum Information 1. Academic Research Original Shareholders of Sealaska and their Descendants, Estimates and Projections, by Barry Edmonston, 2005 (PDF)
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Posted 4/20/2022
Posted 4/20/2022
Haida carver TJ Young (Sgwaayaans) is hard at work creating the first 360-degree totem pole to be raised in Alaska. The Sealaska Cultural Values Pole will stand guard over Heritage Square at the center of the new Sealaska Heritage Arts Campus in downtown Juneau. Young is carving the pole with assistance from his brother, Joe Young and guest carvers David R. Boxley, who is Tsimshian, and Rob Mills…
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Posted 4/18/2022
Posted 4/18/2022
Ellen Bradley is at home in the rainforest and snow-covered peaks of Lingít Aaní — literally. A skier, scientist and passionate Indigenous advocate fighting both colonialism and climate change in the outdoor industry, Bradley returned to her ancestral homeland to ski for the first time this winter, deepening her connection with the land and her Indigenous identity through time spent in the…
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Posted 4/18/2022
Posted 4/18/2022
Sealaska’s board of directors approved $558,000 in funding for language preservation programs at a meeting held on April 8, pledging grants to seven different language preservation and language learning projects. Sealaska shareholders consistently rank language preservation and revitalization as a top priority, an urgency shared by Sealaska leadership.
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Posted 4/12/2022
Posted 4/12/2022
Shareholders from across Alaska and around the country joined Sealaska President and CEO Anthony Mallott virtually for an overview of the spring distribution, which totals $21.3 million and will be issued to shareholders on April 22. The benefits that Sealaska provides to shareholders are not limited to just distributions, Mallott explained. Sealaska values investing in shareholder priorities…
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Posted 4/11/2022
Posted 4/11/2022
The Sealaska Board of Directors met on April 7 and 8 to review financial statements and declare a spring distribution to shareholders. Following a thorough review, the board of directors approved the consolidated 2021 financial statements, in addition to the ANCSA Section 7(i) report for the period ending December 31, 2021. Sealaska will publish the audited financials in early May.
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Posted 4/5/2022
Posted 4/5/2022
One of the important ways Sealaska serves shareholders and communities is advocating for Native rights and issues. The work takes place at the local, state, and federal level on behalf of shareholders, Indigenous people nationwide and traditional communities. Sealaska leadership provided an overview of current policy and advocacy efforts during a virtual Policy Forum held Tuesday, April 5…
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Posted 2/21/2022
Posted 2/21/2022
The Alaska Native Brotherhood (ANB) and Alaska Native Sisterhood (ANS) Grand Camp organizations brought Alaska Native leaders together to celebrate the life and legacy of Elizabeth Kaaxgal.aat Peratrovich during a virtual event held Wednesday, February 16. Peratrovich is remembered as a powerful Tlingit civil rights leader who served in the ANS alongside her husband Roy who served in the ANB.
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Posted 2/17/2022
Posted 2/17/2022
Thank you to all those who joined the Sealaska Public Policy Forum today. We appreciate your engagement and willingness to take the time to learn about Sealaska policy initiatives and advocacy efforts. The Sealaska Policy Committee is also known as Naxtoo.aat/Wayi Wah/Hágwsdaa – a phrase that translates to “Let’s Go!” in Lingít, Sm’algyax and Xaad Kíl, respectively – and was formed to help…
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Posted 1/27/2022
Posted 1/27/2022
The Sealaska Board of Directors elevated shareholder Jason Gubatayao to the position of general manager of Haa Aaní, Sealaska’s land-management company, when it met Jan. 20-21. The board also decided to continue holding most Sealaska meetings virtually while pandemic circumstances remain uncertain—including the annual meeting of shareholders on June 25. Haa Aaní is responsible for Sealaska’…
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Posted 1/21/2022
Posted 1/21/2022
Every two years, Sealaska conducts a shareholder survey to identify your priorities. Those priorities are the road map to our public policy work and help guide the shareholder benefits we are grateful to be able to provide through the success of our businesses. In 2021, Sealaska’s board and executive leadership launched what will be a multiyear effort to hold leadership meetings in…
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Posted 12/28/2021
Posted 12/28/2021
As we welcome 2022, we at Sealaska have much to be grateful for. We end the year safe and successful, despite facing continued challenges and disruptions from the COVID-19 pandemic. Sealaska continues to prioritize the health of our employees and deeply appreciates their tireless efforts to maintain COVID precautions while working to achieve business growth and enhance shareholder benefits.
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Posted 12/17/2021
Posted 12/17/2021
Gunalchéesh, Háw’aa, T’oya̱xsut ‘nüüsm for joining us today! This year, Sealaska had two opportunities for shareholders to win cash prizes: All cash prizes will be delivered in the manner you receive your deposits via MySealaska.com. Over 1,000 of you that tuned into the holiday fair were automatically entered for event door prizes. Congratulations and thank you all for attending.
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Posted 12/13/2021
Posted 12/13/2021
Ruth Demmert Kaanak of Kake, Alaska is well known for her dedication and inspiration to the Tlingit language and culture. At this year’s Alaska Federation of Natives convention, Demmert was presented with the AFN President’s Award, Dr. Walter Soboleff “Warriors of Light”. The award is presented to people who uplift people, enrich spirits, and unify people. Ruth Demmert was raised…
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Posted 11/22/2021
Posted 11/22/2021
Sealaska recently joined Alaskans for Better Government in support of a proposed ballot measure to institute formal legal recognition of all 229 Alaska Native Tribes by the State of Alaska. This ballot initiative would provide Alaskans – rather than the Legislature – a chance to vote on the matter directly and finally ensure an equal, government-to-government relationship between Tribes and the…
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Posted 11/4/2021
Posted 11/4/2021
ANCSA Corporations and Tribes
ANCSA Corporations and tribes serve many of the same constituents – both have a mission to improve the lives of our shareholders and tribal citizens.Relationship can be collaborativeSupporting traditional ways of life (subsistence)Sustainable rural communities; employmentEducationCultural and language preservationLand into trustCelebration 1998There can be disagr...
Posted 11/4/2021
Posted 11/4/2021
Why Did ANCSA Happen? The discovery of oil on Alaska’s North Slope, along with other natural resources the government sought to develop, led to an urgency on the part of state and federal lawmakers to secure land ownership. But aboriginal land claims had to be resolved first. Pressure for access to resources resulted in quick legislative solution. The negotiations around ANCSA started in 1968 and legislation was signed into law in December of 1971.Richard Frank Emil Notti AFN (Photo 1966-1968 U...
Posted 10/28/2021
Posted 10/28/2021
Sealaska hosted its second in the “#NativeEnough” series of virtual events centered on the issue of blood quantum Tuesday night, Oct. 26. The purpose of the event was to provide background on blood quantum – how it was incorporated into the Alaska Native Claims Settlement Act, its history related to enrollment requirements at Sealaska, what tribes and other Alaska Native Corporations require…
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Posted 10/14/2021
Posted 10/14/2021
Sealaska’s board of directors recently approved a $25,000 contribution in support of the creation of a totem pole that will serve as a monument and acknowledgement of the healing journey undertaken by women and children as they move from abusive family circumstances to healthier ones. The totem is being carved by master carver Wayne Price of Haines, and will be erected at the Kaasei…
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Posted 10/4/2021
Posted 10/4/2021
Sealaska and Tlingit & Haida have received thousands of applications already today for the $500 benefit available through our joint CARES Act distribution program. There was a period of time this morning when the online application was down. It has been fixed now, so if you tried unsuccessfully to apply earlier and received an “error” message, please try again. We have published a…
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Posted 9/29/2021
Posted 9/29/2021
Sealaska will mark September 30, the National Day of Remembrance for Indian Boarding Schools, with its support for a day of events on Thursday, Sept. 30 in Juneau to raise awareness of the legacy and trauma of the boarding and residential school systems in the United States and Canada. Also known as “Orange Shirt Day,” the day originated in Canada in 2013, and has since been formally adopted…
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Posted 9/28/2021
Posted 9/28/2021
Sealaska held a special showing of the documentary Tlatsini – Journey of the Taku Kwaan on Monday, Sept. 27. If you missed this opportunity, Sealaska shareholders can watch at their convenience before Thursday, Sept. 30. About Tlatsini – Journey of the Taku Kwaan The documentary is about a canoe journey on the Taku River. The Taku River runs between British Columbia to the Alaska…
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Posted 9/24/2021
Posted 9/24/2021
Sealaska is proud to share the winners of our 2021 #SealaskaWayOfLife photo contest! We created the #SealaskaWayOfLife photo contest in 2020 because we want to see what the Tlingit, Haida and Tsimshian way of life looks like through your lens, celebrate our culture and heritage and foster connection within our communities and beyond—especially amid the pandemic. This year…
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Posted 9/15/2021
Posted 9/15/2021
Today, Sealaska joins with several other organizations committed to the long-term health and success of our region in announcing a new vision and funding model for community economic development in Southeast Alaska. Sealaska is proud to commit $10 million to the establishment of the Seacoast Trust. Our $10 million is being matched with $7 million from The Nature Conservancy…
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Posted 9/1/2021
Posted 9/1/2021
After 23 years of law enforcement service, Alaska State Trooper Mark Granda retired on Aug. 31, 2021. Like his family, Sealaska is proud of Trooper Granda and his honorable service to the people of Alaska. Granda’s career in law enforcement began in 1997 with the Sitka Police Department, where he served for nearly four years. In 2001, Granda began his career with the Alaska State Troopers…
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Posted 8/20/2021
Posted 8/20/2021
One of the few remaining birth speakers of the Northern Haida dialect of Xaad kíl, Jane Kristovich (K’ujúuhl), joined her ancestors on August 18, 2021 at the age of 93. Kristovich was a treasured speaker of Xaad kíl who gave her time and knowledge generously to generations of her people through her involvement with language and dance groups, community events and even on film.
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Posted 8/17/2021
Posted 8/17/2021
On Friday, July 23, Sealaska’s board of directors approved a resolution to give full support and cooperation to the Federal Indian Boarding School Initiative, which was announced by Interior Secretary Deb Haaland (Laguna Pueblo) in late June. The resolution calls on landowners, religious and governmental officials, and others to support the investigation, was passed unanimously by Sealaska’s…
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Posted 8/9/2021
Posted 8/9/2021
What does the Tlingit, Haida and Tsimshian way of life look like through your lens? Show us in a snapshot during this year’s #SealaskaWayOfLife photo contest! Sealaska is dedicated to doing our part to improve ocean health and protect our way of life. Over the past six years, we’ve advanced our twin goals of economic prosperity and environmental protection by investing in a range of…
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Posted 8/2/2021
Posted 8/2/2021
Educator and Sealaska shareholder Karen Lauth Elliott has been celebrating a lot of graduations over the past few years, culminating on June 12 this year, when she and her youngest son, Emad Al-Shamasawi, both received diplomas on the same day. Elliott earned her master’s in education policy from the University of Washington (UW) that day while her son graduated from Ingraham High School in…
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Posted 7/27/2021
Posted 7/27/2021
On Friday, July 23, 2021, Sealaska’s Board of Directors approved $450,000 in donations to fund language-preservation programs and a social service project spearheaded by organizations in Southeast. Three of the grants, totaling to $400,000, will go toward invigorating all three of Southeast Alaska’s Indigenous languages: Lingít (Tlingit), X̱aad Kíl (Haida), and Sm’algyax (Tsimshian).
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Posted 7/13/2021
Posted 7/13/2021
On Saturday, June 26, Sealaska shareholders elected the following candidates to serve three-year terms on the company’s board of directors. We asked each of these newly elected directors the following question. Their answers follow. Sealaska is focused on teamwork – on the board and staff levels and within our larger community of tribes, shareholders, descendants and partner organizations.
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Posted 6/26/2021
Posted 6/26/2021
Saturday’s Annual Meeting of Shareholders Included Election Results, New Logo, Shareholder Survey Data and Report on 2020 Financial Performance Sealaska’s 48th annual meeting of shareholders closed Saturday with the announcement of shareholders’ selections to fill the five available seats on the company’s board of directors and the green light for the company to move forward with…
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Posted 6/25/2021
Posted 6/25/2021
Sealaska issued a statement expressing its position on the U.S. Supreme Court’s ruling on Friday, June 25 that settled litigation over whether Alaska Native Corporations qualify for federal CARES Act funding. Click here to read Sealaska’s statement. Answers to additional questions shareholders and tribal citizens may have on the decision and Sealaska’s role are below.
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Posted 6/2/2021
Posted 6/2/2021
Sealaska and Sealaska Heritage Institute (SHI) will offer a live web stream from Angoon to share the memorial service for the late Tlingit leader Kaasháan, Albert Kookesh. The ceremony is scheduled at 6 pm (AKDT), Friday, June 4. The service will be available through the MySealaska website and open to the public via YouTube. All loved ones, friends, acquaintances and well-wishers are welcome…
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Posted 5/28/2021
Posted 5/28/2021
Hearts are heavy at Sealaska after the passing of Sealaska director Albert Kookesh, Tlingit leader, former senator, business owner and fierce advocate for Alaska Natives. Albert died at his home in Angoon, surrounded by family, his children and grandchildren. “Today, we mourn the loss of a colleague, a friend, a champion of Alaska Native people,” said Sealaska Chair Joe Nelson.
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Posted 5/25/2021
Posted 5/25/2021
High school graduations are taking place this month, with many students receiving their hard-earned diplomas. High school can be hard to navigate, and learning during a global pandemic has been a new challenge for our young students. The class of 2021 has shown what true perseverance is. “This past year has seen tremendous educational disruption and required great dedication and effort from…
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Posted 5/4/2021
Posted 5/4/2021
Sealaska is deeply grateful for the service of two of its board members who have chosen not to seek another term on the board. These two men have contributed mightily to our company, and their service and commitment to our people has been of incalculable value. Sealaska director Albert Kookesh, formally announced he will not seek another term on the Sealaska Board of Directors.
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Posted 5/4/2021
Posted 5/4/2021
Two of Sealaska’s long-serving directors, Senator Albert Kookesh and Tate London, have decided not to seek another term on the board this year. “Both directors have fulfilled the purpose and mission of Sealaska while serving on behalf of our shareholders,” said Joe Nelson, Sealaska Chair. “We are forever indebted for their service.” The decision by Kookesh and London left two board…
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Posted 4/19/2021
Posted 4/19/2021
At Sealaska, we are committed to finding ways to address the effects of global warming and sustaining healthy oceans. On Earth Day 2021, please join us in our conversation with the Polynesian Voyaging Society about ocean health and our shared responsibility as Native people in caring for our world. Over the years, Sealaska and representatives of different Indigenous Hawaiian groups have held…
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Posted 4/12/2021
Posted 4/12/2021
The following letter from Sealaska Board Chair Joe Nelson was published in the Q1 newsletter, which mailed to shareholders in early April. To view the full newsletter, click here. Dear Shareholders, For many of us, the first signs of spring are a welcome change. The increase in daylight lures us outdoors. The fresh air and physical activity improve our state of mind. We start gearing up…
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Posted 4/8/2021
Posted 4/8/2021
Growing up in Juneau, Rain Felkl had no fear of the mountains, she said. Her parents would let her play at the glacier or spend the night on top of Thunder Mountain unsupervised, entrusting XTRATUF boots, hand-me-down outdoor gear and the unwavering confidence that characterizes childhood with her safe return home. “They [my parents] didn’t instill fear in us when it came to the outdoors,”…
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Posted 3/30/2021
Posted 3/30/2021
Amy Hallingstad was a champion for civil rights causes in Alaska, desegregating schools and other public facilities, advocating for equal pay for women and quality health care for Alaska Natives, and tearing down signs that read “No Natives Allowed.” She fought the most serious challenges faced by her people for most of her life, earning the unofficial title of “First Lady for the First…
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Posted 3/29/2021
Posted 3/29/2021
Sealaska’s most recent virtual event invited panelists to share their experiences with cold water dips, an ancient ritual among our people that was designed to fortify the body and spirit against a wide range of difficulties, from weather to warfare. The live virtual event, moderated by Sealaska Board Chair Joe Nelson, featured Richard Peterson, Sarah Dybdahl, Barbara Blake…
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Posted 3/17/2021
Posted 3/17/2021
Sealaska invests in Southeast Alaska businesses through a yearly commitment to Spruce Root, Inc. Spruce Root supports businesses through loan capital and support services to promote economic, social, cultural and environmental resiliency. Sealaska economic development partner Spruce Root just announced the winners of its annual Path to Prosperity business competition…
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Posted 2/9/2021
Posted 2/9/2021
During the month of February, we are highlighting shareholders who are contributing to policy and advocacy efforts and who positively impact people and communities. Washington State Representative Debra Lekanoff is a champion for environmental policy and protections. She has given her time at the tribal, village, state and national level. Her efforts and professional background led some…
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Posted 1/27/2021
Posted 1/27/2021
The summer of 2019 was the most promising yet for Stormy and Bonnie Hamar’s tourism business, Kasaan Arts, Museum and Canoes. They had a big write-up in the local travel guide, fresh brochures to stock in ferry terminals and B&Bs, and a new contract pending with a day-cruise operator that would’ve guaranteed a stream paying customers throughout the summer of 2020. But like so many…
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Posted 1/19/2021
Posted 1/19/2021
Students currently enrolled or interested in signing up to study Sm’algyax, X̱aad Kíl and Lingít through the University of Alaska Southeast this spring have access to newly available scholarship funds made possible by an agreement between Sealaska and UAS. Sealaska signed an agreement offering tuition support for students enrolled in the Spring 2021 semester in beginning…
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Posted 1/14/2021
Posted 1/14/2021
Although the opportunity to serve as a Sealaska Board Youth Advisor (BYA) was on her radar for several years, Michaela Demmert said she waited until the time felt right to apply. For Demmert (Tlingit, Blackfeet, Nez Perce), who is Taakw.aaneidí (Raven/Sea Lion Clan), the right time rolled around last year. Demmert graduated from Dartmouth College in 2018, and plans to begin working on a…
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Posted 1/14/2021
Posted 1/14/2021
On Feb. 2, Fred (Sḵwaal) Hamilton, Sr. of Craig will mark his 100th birthday. The day has been designated by the Craig City Council as Fred Hamilton, Sr. Day. Hamilton is the son of George (Siigaay) Hamilton, Sr. and Joy (Haana Iwaans) Edenso Hamilton. He is of the Raven moiety and his crests are Owl, Brown Bear and Flicker. Longevity is in his genes. Hamilton’s dad lived to be just shy of…
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Posted 12/20/2020
Posted 12/20/2020
It is the holiday season, and a great opportunity to support local, Native-owned businesses, artists and entrepreneurs. Sealaska invited its shareholders, descendants and others in the Alaska Native community to share their businesses and artistry with our audiences so we can help promote them during an otherwise very difficult year. We were flooded with submissions from all sorts of artists…
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Posted 12/9/2020
Posted 12/9/2020
Sealaska shareholders have told us that investing in traditional languages is a top priority. In 2019, Sealaska set up an endowment to support the revitalization of the Tlingit (Lingít), Haida (X̠aad Kíl) and Tsimshian (Sm’algya̠x) traditional languages. Sealaska hosted an hour-long discussion on traditional languages on Wednesday, December 9, 2020. Sealaska Director Lisa Ka’illjuus Lang…
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Posted 12/9/2020
Posted 12/9/2020
At just 25 years old, Sealaska shareholder descendant Stephanie (Sxhaalghén) Masterman was recognized by the National Center for American Indian Enterprise Development as a Native American 40 Under 40 award recipient for 2020. The announcement came in November. Masterman is Tlingit. She is Wooshkeetaan (Eagle/Shark Clan), a child of German, English, Irish and Navajo ancestors…
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Posted 11/22/2020
Posted 11/22/2020
Earlier this year, Sealaska marked an important milestone in its growth and development as a company – following the board election this spring, our board is now majority female, with seven of 13 members who are women. Balance and reciprocity are important values we hold as Tlingit, Haida and Tsimshian people, and they’re part of our company values at Sealaska, too.
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Posted 11/19/2020
Posted 11/19/2020
Close your eyes. Clear your mind. When you hear the word ‘scientist,’ who do you envision? Is it an ‘old guy,’ with ‘crazy hair’ in a ‘lab coat’ with ‘glasses’? Is he ‘white’? If those are the words you used, you’re just like the kids in Hydaburg City School District used to be. That is, before they met Wendy F. Smythe and learned a new way to think of themselves and to value their…
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Posted 11/10/2020
Posted 11/10/2020
Due to COVID-19, Sealaska’s 2020 summer interns worked from home and connected to their teams through video chats, emails, and phone calls. With the pandemic heavily impacting many of our communities across the country, there were opportunities to lend a helping hand. Interns had the chance to participate in a “Give Back Day,” which was a day of community service in the intern’s area with an…
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Posted 10/29/2020
Posted 10/29/2020
It is with great sadness, but also reverence, respect and gratitude for his innumerable contributions, that we share the news of the passing of Tlingit Elder and culture bearer Kingeistí David Katzeek. Katzeek was a clan leader for the Eagle moiety, Shangukeidí (Thunderbird Clan) of Klukwan. Katzeek was from Kaawdliyaayi Hít (House Lowered from the Sun), and Shis’g̠i Hít (Tree Bark House) in…
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Posted 10/19/2020
Posted 10/19/2020
Sealaska established a $10 million language endowment to focus on the revitalization of Tlingit (Lingít), Haida (X̱aad Kíl) and Tsimshian (Sm’algya̠x) languages. In Alaska, very few birth speakers of these traditional languages remain. All are older than 70, and a majority are 80 or older. The group includes four birth speakers of Sm’algya̠x, three birth speakers of X̱aad Kíl…
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Posted 10/15/2020
Posted 10/15/2020
Major Walter Hotch-Hill, a Sealaska shareholder descendant, was presented with a President’s Award during the 2020 Alaska Federation of Natives (AFN) annual convention. AFN is the largest statewide Native organization in Alaska, with members representing more than 250 organizations. Each year AFN hosts an annual convention that includes setting priorities for the advocacy group as well as…
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Posted 10/13/2020
Posted 10/13/2020
Sealaska is pleased to announce the nomination of Joe Nelson as the Alaska Federation of Natives (AFN) board co-chair. Nelson has served as a Sealaska director since 2003 and has been board chair since 2014. Nelson has a long and distinguished career working as a practicing attorney and advocating for youth while working for the University of Alaska Southeast. Nelson is a tribal member of the…
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Posted 10/9/2020
Posted 10/9/2020
Sealaska shareholder descendant Andrea Ts’aak Ka Juu Cook will serve as one of two conference guides for this year’s First Alaskans Institute Elders & Youth Conference, which starts Sunday, Oct. 11. The three-day event will be held entirely online. Cook, who will turn 21 this month, is Haida from Hydaburg. Cook spent the summer as a virtual intern for First Alaskans Institute (FAI) and Sitka…
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Posted 10/2/2020
Posted 10/2/2020
Sealaska established a $10 million language endowment to focus on the revitalization of Tlingit (Lingít), Haida (X̱aad Kíl) and Tsimshian (Sm’algya̠x) languages. In Alaska, very few birth speakers of these traditional languages remain. All are older than 70, and a majority are 80 or older. The group includes four birth speakers of Sm’algya̠x, three birth speakers of X̱aad Kíl…
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Posted 9/28/2020
Posted 9/28/2020
(September 25, 2020) – Shareholders from around Southeast Alaska filled their smokehouses, pantries and freezers with the rich red of sockeye salmon this week, courtesy of a unique partnership between Sealaska and the Alaska Longline Fishermen’s Association (ALFA), in conjunction with tribal leadership in each community. The first of its kind, this salmon distribution netted a total of 51,000…
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Posted 9/25/2020
Posted 9/25/2020
This summer, the TRAYLS (Training Rural Alaskan Youth Leaders and Students) crew in Kake continued a solemn but purposeful task — improving trails on Grave Island. The work started in 2019, when the death of a local resident who was to be interred on the island prompted a request of the TRAYLS crew to clear overgrowth and level walking paths to ensure that Elders could more easily walk from…
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Posted 9/18/2020
Posted 9/18/2020
This month, a partnership between Sealaska and the Alaska Longline Fisheries Association (ALFA) will result in the distribution of 49,000 pounds of salmon to families reliant on subsistence fishing from Yakutat to Hydaburg. ALFA received a $250,000 grant from the Alaska Community Foundation and Catch Together, a Massachusetts-based nonprofit that helps small-scale fishing communities ensure…
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Posted 9/1/2020
Posted 9/1/2020
In Kake, the Keex’ Kwaan Culture Camp is a rite of passage. Held annually for more than three decades, the week-long event pulls in just about every school-age kid in Kake and marks a transition during the long summers of childhood — before Culture Camp, and after. As with just about everything in 2020, this year’s camp was different, but the determination on the part of the Organized Village…
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Posted 9/1/2020
Posted 9/1/2020
Capital City Fire Rescue (CCFR) and the Juneau Unity Group partnered to incorporate formline art onto a refurbished ambulance. The Unity Group is a collaborative partnership between Juneau’s Native organizations: Sealaska, Sealaska Heritage Institute, Douglas Indian Association, Central Council of the Tlingit and Haida Indian Tribes of Alaska, Goldbelt Inc., Southeast Alaska Regional Health…
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Posted 8/31/2020
Posted 8/31/2020
The 2020 summer interns have proven to be resilient and adaptive, as their anticipated work experiences shifted from in-person employment to remote work due to the coronavirus pandemic. Sealaska welcomed 18 summer interns this year for its first ever remote internship program. This year’s interns — like so many people across the country — worked entirely from home, exchanging office time for…
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Posted 8/25/2020
Posted 8/25/2020
Sealaska hosted an inaugural #SealaskaWayOfLife photo contest, inviting our social media audience to showcase their Tlingit, Haida and Tsimshian way of life. Overwhelmingly, it was clear that “our way of life” revolves around our children, traditional foods, communities, and land, oceans and waterways. At Sealaska, we directly relate with this way of life and have committed to serving the twin…
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Posted 8/5/2020
Posted 8/5/2020
Each year, Sealaska directors select a shareholder descendant to participate as a board youth advisor to the board for a one-year term. Michaela Demmert from Juneau was selected for the board youth advisor position for the coming year. In her role as board youth advisor (BYA), Michaela serves as a non-voting member on the board and will be asked to provide input, while learning about the company’s…
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Posted 8/3/2020
Posted 8/3/2020
Sealaska shareholder Kendra Kloster joined two other Alaska Native women as appointees to Anchorage’s Public Safety Advisory Commission in June. Kloster was born in Wrangell, Alaska, and is Tlingit, Raven, Kiks.ádi (Frog Clan), Gagaan Hít (Sun House). Kloster said she and her fellow appointees — along with friends and colleagues from other organizations working on behalf of Alaska Natives…
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Posted 7/31/2020
Posted 7/31/2020
Sealaska shareholder descendants like Isaac Mazon and Aaliyah Starr are finding employment and training in an up-and-coming line of business with one of Sealaska’s latest investments in the regional economy, Barnacle Foods. Barnacle Foods harvests bull kelp from the waters around Southeast Alaska and turns it into tasty hot sauce, salsas, pickles and seasonings. They also transform other…
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Posted 7/27/2020
Posted 7/27/2020
JUNEAU, Alaska – On Friday, July 24, 2020, the Sealaska board of directors approved $300,000 in grants to support the revitalization of the Tlingit, Haida and Tsimshian traditional languages. This is the first major investment made possible by the $10 million language endowment that was authorized by the board in November 2019. “Our indigenous languages hold our people’s ancient…
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Posted 7/16/2020
Posted 7/16/2020
More than 1,500 shareholders gathered virtually for the 47th annual meeting of shareholders on June 27, 2020. Due to health mandates, this year’s annual meeting took place virtually allowing shareholders to participate from wherever they were located. Main presenters joined the live webcast from the Walter Soboleff Building, Shuká Hít (Ancestors' House), while most directors joined online.
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Posted 7/13/2020
Posted 7/13/2020
Sealaska shareholders have told us that education and vocational scholarships are a top priority. Sealaska is proud to recognize our scholarship recipients. Marissa Brakes has many different interests when it comes to her future career in law. Through internships at Sealaska and the U.S. Attorney’s Office in Boise, Idaho, three years of work at a civil litigation firm, and her role as…
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Posted 6/29/2020
Posted 6/29/2020
Sealaska shareholders have told us that education and vocational scholarships are a top priority. Sealaska is proud to recognize our scholarship recipients. Brian James is among the first class of Sealaska scholarship recipients who are attending college part time, and the expanded eligibility offered by Sealaska, “is honestly life changing,” he said. James is 51 and will technically be…
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Posted 6/19/2020
Posted 6/19/2020
We had a chance to connect with Sealaska Board Youth Advisor Maka Monture, a Tlingit and Mohawk from Yakutat, Alaska. She currently resides in Anchorage, Alaska, and is working on a few different projects at the time of this interview. We wanted to catch up on what she has been doing and, more importantly, learn more about why she is so dedicated to leading a youth charge on climate change and…
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Posted 6/4/2020
Posted 6/4/2020
It is natural that Morgan Howard sees the future of Sealaska – as well as its challenges – through the lens of communications. As founder of Morgan Howard Productions, a communications company specializing in video, web, and social media, he has been telling the stories of Alaska Native people and Alaska Native Corporations (ANCs) since the mid-1990s. Howard said he believes that…
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Posted 6/1/2020
Posted 6/1/2020
Fire Chief Rich Etheridge has been working as a first responder for almost 30 years. From volunteering in the early 90s to working full-time since 2002 at Capital City Fire/Rescue in Juneau, firefighting has held a profound and substantial place in his life. “The best part about my job is being able to support the line firefighters and make sure they have the tools and training to get out…
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Posted 5/29/2020
Posted 5/29/2020
As a Sealaska Board of Directors endorsed candidate, Lisa Lang brings her understanding of the profound changes that Alaska, its lands, people, economies and cultures are and will be experiencing in the future. She is dedicated to revitalizing cultural values and communities as the pillars of a strong region. While she brings strength, vision and skills to the board, it is her humility that is…
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Posted 5/29/2020
Posted 5/29/2020
Mike Roberts’ motivation for running for the Sealaska board is straightforward: “Shareholders need to be heard and not just listened to.” Roberts draws the distinction between holding annual elections and community meetings, which he considers listening, versus truly hearing the deep needs of shareholders, particularly those in communities outside Juneau. “People outside of Juneau feel…
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Posted 5/21/2020
Posted 5/21/2020
A record number of shareholders tuned into a virtual community meeting on Wednesday, May 20, to learn more about Sealaska’s increasing success with its focus on building the long-term health of land, food, water and communities. Shareholders had the opportunity to ask questions and hear from leadership on the company’s financial performance. Due to health restrictions related to the pandemic…
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Posted 5/8/2020
Posted 5/8/2020
The sudden passing of Byron Mallott — Elder, leader, mentor and tireless advocate for indigenous people across the globe — is a devastating loss for our people and our communities. Byron brought a profound belief in fairness and inclusion to our communities, our corporation, our state and the world. As a business executive, public servant and elected leader, Byron fought every day for unity…
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Posted 5/5/2020
Posted 5/5/2020
When our Elders came together for the first Sealaska Elders Conference 40 years ago, a single theme emerged: preserving the past and passing it on to future generations. We hear this loud and clear in the “Because We Cherish You” text: “Even from long ago, our grandchildren — we placed high above ourselves. Yes. We cherish them.” Our Elders’ beautiful words inspire Sealaska to be a better…
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Posted 5/1/2020
Posted 5/1/2020
JUNEAU, Alaska – Sealaska topped its 2018 results with another record year in 2019, reporting net income of $77.8 million, $12.6 million over the previous year. Revenue of $700 million in 2019 was the largest in Sealaska’s nearly 50-year history. Its 2019 Annual Report features financial successes, as well as achievements in community impact, ocean health, land protection and sustainable seafood…
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Posted 4/14/2020
Posted 4/14/2020
Applications for Sealaska’s scholarships are due today! A scholarship can be a tremendous source of support. For more information on scholarships and how to apply, go to the shareholder portal MySealaska.com or Sealaska Heritage Institute. Rick Brock, Dino Brock, and Archie Young are fierce competitors but they’re also family. This set of two brothers and a cousin are well-known and respected…
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Posted 4/14/2020
Posted 4/14/2020
Applications for Sealaska’s scholarships close on April 15th! A scholarship can be a tremendous source of support. For more information on scholarships and how to apply, go to the shareholder portal MySealaska.com or Sealaska Heritage Institute. How does a child from the small village of Angoon end up coaching college basketball all over the country? It’s not a straight line…
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Posted 4/9/2020
Posted 4/9/2020
Applications for Sealaska’s scholarships close on April 15th! A scholarship can be a tremendous source of support. Over the course of the next week, we’ll bring you stories of former scholarship recipients who are pursuing great careers and making a difference in our communities. For more information on scholarships and how to apply, go to the shareholder portal MySealaska.
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Posted 4/8/2020
Posted 4/8/2020
These are extraordinary times, as we hunker down across the globe. Extraordinary, but not unprecedented. One hundred years ago, a flu pandemic swept the globe taking up to 50 million lives, including many lives in Alaska. But as indigenous people, we are survivors. “Social distancing” is not our thing. As a collectivist people, we live and socialize in multi-generational groups at a higher…
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Posted 3/30/2020
Posted 3/30/2020
Due to the impact of COVID-19, the Sealaska scholarship deadline has been extended to April 15. The decision was precipitated by a number of shareholders and descendants who have lost their jobs due to the virus and who now want to go to school, according to Joe Nelson, Sealaska board chair and ex-officio trustee of Sealaska Heritage Institute. “We are living in a time when we have to be…
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Posted 3/9/2020
Posted 3/9/2020
Sealaska is increasing its involvement in the education of shareholders and descendants long before they are eligible for a college scholarship. One example is our sponsorship of the Alaska Native Science and Engineering Program (ANSEP) Middle School Academy. ANSEP, as the program is known, is based at the University of Alaska. Over the past 20-plus years, the program has evolved into a…
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Posted 2/27/2020
Posted 2/27/2020
Alana Peterson learned the value of hard work at a very early age. When she was just 10 years old, she worked alongside her father, who was an artist, selling hand-painted wood trinkets to tourists. Throughout her life, Peterson has grabbed every opportunity to work, to help others fulfill their dreams, and to improve the local economy. Her resume includes several unique experiences that has…
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Posted 2/25/2020
Posted 2/25/2020
Morgan Love is one of 359 students who were awarded Sealaska scholarships in 2019. Did you know that approximately 1,000 Sealaska shareholders and their families live in California? This is a story about a young shareholder from Southern California on a journey to understand her own Native identity. And she is serving others as she navigates her way. Introducing shareholder Morgan Love…
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Posted 2/18/2020
Posted 2/18/2020
As Sealaska enters 2020, we will be looking back at another record year in profitability. We will also be looking forward to the next 100 years as we speed toward our 50th anniversary. The Alaska Native Claims Settlement Act is by no means perfect or final. The act has been amended many times. It will continue to be amended for technical changes and for substantive changes…
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Posted 2/10/2020
Posted 2/10/2020
Kellen London is one of 62 part-time students who were awarded Sealaska scholarships in 2019. Last year was the first year the scholarship program included part-time students. Some might think that being a part-time student means going back to school while raising kids or pursuing a second career. Or maybe it means finishing the degree you always wanted to. Not always so.
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Posted 1/30/2020
Posted 1/30/2020
Stephanie Jenkins is one of 62 part-time students who were awarded Sealaska scholarships in 2019. Last year was the first year the scholarship program included part-time students. When Stephanie Jenkins first applied for a Sealaska scholarship in 1998, she had no idea she was opening a door to her Tlingit culture and identity. This identity ultimately allowed her to see herself as a…
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Posted 1/25/2020
Posted 1/25/2020
Message from Shareholder Vicki Soboleff We just finished our first weaving classes, thanks to Sealaska’s Carving and Bark Program! Classes were held August 2019, through January 20, 2020. It was such a treat to teach the class alongside assistant teachers Fredrick Anderson and Carrie Sykes. I lived in Alaska for 48 years of my life and have fond memories of people and…
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Posted 1/17/2020
Posted 1/17/2020
Katu Allen is Tlingit but she grew up separated from her traditional homelands in Southeast Alaska. Over the last few years, she has found what she calls a flotation device and beacon of knowledge that helps her reconnect with her identity. Helping Katu and many others is DonnaRae (Klinklia) James, president of the San Francisco Tlingit and Haida Community Council, and founder of CAlaska…
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Posted 1/9/2020
Posted 1/9/2020
Attention Sealaska students! Scholarship applications for the 2020–2021 academic year are now open to Sealaska shareholder and descendant students. Every year Sealaska awards hundreds of full-time and part-time merit-based scholarships to our student leaders. Since 1981, Sealaska has been funding scholarships as part of our long-time commitment to education.
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Posted 1/8/2020
Posted 1/8/2020
Dear Shareholders, Sigóowu Yées Táakw! Happy New Year! As we greet 2020, I am most hopeful for the coming decade. I am proud that Sealaska dedicated $10 million last November to support Lingít (Tlingit), Xaad Kíl (Haida) and Sm’algyax (Tsimshian) language revitalization. We anticipate spending $500,000 annually for the next 10 years. In December, I issued a challenge to all shareholders…
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Posted 12/18/2019
Posted 12/18/2019
Tlingit cultural icon David Katzeek was honored by the Juneau School District Board of Education and issued a legislative citation from the 31st Alaska State Legislature. Representative Andi Story (District 34) presented Katzeek with the legislative citation. Story says members of the Alaska State Legislature commend Katzeek on his dedication to the revival of Tlingit language and…
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Posted 12/11/2019
Posted 12/11/2019
In November 2019, Joseph (Kusataan) Casulucan received his first check as a new enrolled shareholder descendant. Joseph was motivated to enroll because he wanted to learn more about Sealaska’s origins, accomplishments, and lessons learned along the way. “I am so happy to finally be part of our amazing Regional Corporation. The work done by our leadership makes me very proud to be from Southeast…
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Posted 11/25/2019
Posted 11/25/2019
Dear Sealaska family, At a recent meeting, we established a fund to support Lingít (Tlingit), Xaad Kíl (Haida) and Shm’algyack (Tsimshian) language revitalization for the next 10 years. We anticipate spending $500,000 annually from the interest earned on this $10 million fund. We have limited time and resources, i.e., speakers and money. We need to use them efficiently and effectively.
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Posted 11/7/2019
Posted 11/7/2019
Sealaska is partnering with the village of Kake (Keex’ Kwaan) to help stand up a youth teen center. Community partners include the city of Kake and the federally recognized tribe, the Organized Village of Kake (OVK). As part of these joint efforts, Sealaska approved $50,000 that will help to open a facility that can support a positive space for youth. This is the story of a community coming…
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Posted 11/5/2019
Posted 11/5/2019
Congratulations to Benjamin Young of Hydaburg, Alaska, who was recognized as the 2019 Culture Bearer by the Alaska Federation of Natives. Young is Haida Raven of the Yahgw’láanaas Clan and his Haida name is K’uyáang. He has three brothers and one sister. Two of his brothers (TJ and Joe Young) are renowned Haida carvers. The family grew up in a traditional Haida environment…
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Posted 10/28/2019
Posted 10/28/2019
The Haa Aaní, LLC (HAL) board convened its quarterly meeting in September in Ketchikan and later traveled to Prince of Wales Island for a closer look at operations there. The board reviewed active timber harvest operations, second-growth forests, and silviculture programs (designed to improve forest health). They also drove through miles of lands within Sealaska’s carbon-offset program…
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Posted 10/28/2019
Posted 10/28/2019
With temperatures dipping to the low 30s and fog settling in just above the football field, Juneau high school football coach Mitch Haldane paced the sidelines yelling instructions to his players. On this night, his team was playing the first round of the state playoffs against South Anchorage High School. This is Haldane’s first year as a defensive coach for the Juneau Huskies.
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Posted 7/29/2019
Posted 7/29/2019
Molly of Denali YouTube channel. Follow the adventures of 10-year-old Molly Mabray. Molly of Denali is a new animated series that follows the adventures of 10-year-old Molly Mabray, an Alaska Native girl from the Gwich’in/Koyukon/Dena’ina Athabascan tribes in the fictional village of Qyah. The show is produced by Boston public television station WGBH and aired on PBS stations this month.
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Posted 5/2/2019
Posted 5/2/2019
Barbara Blake was selected to join the 2019 endorsed candidate team for the Sealaska board of directors. If elected, Barbara would be the first-ever shareholder descendant and youngest member on the board of directors. As a former Sealaska board youth advisor from 2010 to 2011, Barbara brings a strong understanding of Sealaska board structure and governance. “To me this is a sign…
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Posted 2/5/2019
Posted 2/5/2019
Former Sealaska intern now administers Sealaska’s carbon program. “As an intern, I was part of a team that included the U.S. Forest Service and Hoonah Indian Association,” said Mitch. “Together, we conducted stream surveys to identify fish passage obstacles for Coho salmon in areas surrounding Hoonah.” One hundred years from now, Mitch Haldane’s work will be part of Sealaska’s past.
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Posted 11/2/2018
Posted 11/2/2018
“I look forward to bringing my extensive and diverse work experience to be an effective and productive director. I have many years of working in several ANSCA corporations in presenting business development, budgets or strategic plans.”David Goade Sealaska’s board of directors is proud to announce the selection of David Goade as a new member joining the board. In July 2018…
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Posted 10/12/2018
Posted 10/12/2018
Sealaska Constructors was awarded multiple federal construction contracts at the end of September performing installation, design and renovations to government and military facilities across the country. As the prime contractor, Sealaska will oversee the installation of a renewable energy system at a National Weather Forecast Office (WFO) in Virginia, providing solar energy and “clean” power.
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Posted 10/11/2018
Posted 10/11/2018
Participation in AFN provides Sealaska with a forum to address statewide issues of concern to the Alaska Native community, as well as to highlight issues specific to Southeast Alaska. Sealaska has been a long-standing member of the Alaska Federation of Natives (AFN). Participation in AFN provides Sealaska with a forum to address statewide issues of concern to the Alaska Native community…
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Posted 10/2/2018
Posted 10/2/2018
Sealaska recently announced it was accepting applications to fill a vacant seat on its board following the passing of Director Ross Soboleff. After his passing in July, we reflected on what made him a great Sealaska board member. He was thoughtful, deliberate, humble – a gentle and calming force on the board – and with that came effectiveness. His leadership will be missed, but we look to only…
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Posted 9/9/2018
Posted 9/9/2018
A Celebration of Life for Ross Soboleff will be held Wednesday, September 12, 2018. Celebration of Life Wednesday, September 12, 2018 Elizabeth Peratrovich Hall 320 W Willoughby Ave Juneau, AK 99081 3:30 – 5:30 pm Sealaska announced the passing of director Ross Soboleff on July 3, 2018, surrounded by family. Our thoughts and prayers remain with his family. He was Haida and Tlingit, Eagle/
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Posted 8/30/2018
Posted 8/30/2018
Summer in Juneau, Alaska, means another class of interns gets to experience Sealaska Heritage Institute (SHI) behind-the-scenes. Celebration, research projects, collections housing and youth summer camps gave Breylan Martin, Miranda Worl, Lyndsey Brollini, Leah Urbanski and Leanna Owen insight into SHI’s mission to perpetuate Tlingit, Haida and Tsimshian culture every day. Beyond the day-to-day…
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Posted 8/28/2018
Posted 8/28/2018
As a public space that fosters a sense of community while sheltering important native plant and wildlife species, Lena Beach has long been known as a place for locals to picnic, swim or just enjoy nature. Sealaska recently completed a substantial renovation of this iconic recreation area, which will also strengthen pink and coho salmon runs and improve access and preserve the beach for the future.
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Posted 8/24/2018
Posted 8/24/2018
This is the first story in a series featuring the 2018 Sealaska summer interns. See the businesses through their eyes, understand their impact on Sealaska and experience the reconnection with their Alaska Native roots. Since the early 1980s, Sealaska’s internship program has been offering shareholders and shareholder descendants paid professional work experience and on-the-job training…
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Posted 7/10/2018
Posted 7/10/2018
Sealaska directors unanimously approved a resolution to deed Sealaska land in Wrangell to the federally recognized tribe, Wrangell Cooperative Association. The land is the location of Kiks.ádi Totem Park, dedicated in 1987. The land transfer was made official at the 2018 Sealaska annual meeting in Wrangell, Alaska. “It has always been Wrangell and the Wrangell Native community that had…
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Posted 6/23/2018
Posted 6/23/2018
Sealaska had good news to report to shareholders at its annual meeting Saturday, June 23 in Wrangell, AK. The company achieved one of the most successful years in its history, recording a net income of $43.3 million in 2017 and a $78 million net income improvement over the last five years. Shareholders heard from Sealaska’s management and its board about how the company continues to…
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