BOard of directors
The CIRI Foundation is governed by a board of directors comprising up to 15 members. The Cook Inlet Region, Inc. Board of Directors appoints most members, while TCF’s Board of Directors selects the remaining members.
TCF’s Board of Directors initiates and develops policies to drive the foundation’s mission. Collaborating with Team TCF, the board adapts the strategic plan to meet evolving community needs to balance the interests of present and future generations of Alaska Native recipients.
Board members include CIRI shareholders from diverse cultural backgrounds bringing extensive experience in education, nonprofit management, cultural preservation, finance, law, healthcare, and community development, ensuring well-rounded guidance for the foundation’s goals.
Ryan Newton
Deanna Sackett
Susan Wells
David Wight
Cheryl Wilga, PhD
Joining TCF’s Board of Directors
What Does Being a Board Member Mean?
TCF Board Members oversee the organization’s business affairs and policies, support its mission, participate in strategic planning, and establish fiscal and organizational policies. The board meets four times a year, typically in Anchorage. Directors serve three-year terms and are on at least one committee, such as the Executive, Finance and Endowment, Education Awards, or Development committees appointed by the Board Chair.
Qualifications for Board of Directors
We encourage qualified CIRI shareholders and their lineal descendants to apply. Young professionals seeking board experience are also welcome. Applicants must:
- Be at least 18 years old.
- Have a strong understanding of business operations.
- Possess experience or a strong interest in education.
- Know about financial investments.
- Be strong decision-makers with excellent leadership and communication skills.
- Demonstrate honesty and integrity.
- Be actively involved in advancing Alaska Native education, language, and culture.
Note: Family members of current directors (including spouses, ancestors, children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and spouses) are not eligible for awards during their term. Current award recipients are not eligible to serve on the board, but past recipients are encouraged to apply.
Selection Process
Board member applications are accepted year-round and reviewed by TCF’s Development Committee at the next regularly scheduled meeting. Applications will be on file for one year from the date of submission. When a board seat becomes available, the Development Committee will review the applicant pool, conduct interviews with qualified candidates, and make recommendations to the TCF Board of Directors for final selection and appointment.
How to Apply
Interested candidates can apply by sending a resume and completed application via email tcfadmin@thecirifoundation.org or mail to: The CIRI Foundation, Attn: Development Committee, 3201 C Street, Suite 506, Anchorage, AK 99503.