Koniag

Meet Gunnar, a second-year student in Koniag’s Angayuk Intern program. He is studying Computer Science with a Systems focus at Stanford University in California. Let’s learn more about him: He has been playing the drums for fifteen years.  Gunnar is Alutiiq on his mother’s side though struggled with his relationship of his Native heritage. It wasn’t until Dig Afognak that he was reminded that there’s no such thing as being “Native enough”. Now he is confident in his identity as Alaska Native, and excited to grow in his community and lands. He is thrilled to gain industry experience in his field instead of viewing his craft solely through an academic lens. Welcome to Koniag! 

Congratulations to Koniag Shareholder Irene Anderson-Bare, who recently graduated from the University of Washington’s Leadership for Learning doctoral program. “Learning about [Dr. William Demmert’s, from Tlingit Eagle clan] trail-blazing commitment to improving Indian Education taught me I could have a positive influence as a Native Educator,” she said. Read more at https://lnkd.in/gVXtSBS2. Atagua (way to go), Dr. Anderson-Bare!

Meet Patricia, one of Koniag’s Angayuk Interns this year! She is studying Business Administration at Bay Mills Community College in Brimley, Michigan. Let’s get to know her: With her deep passion for cultural connections, she started working for her regional corporation and joined the Imamsuat (Sugpiaq) dance group.  She has the same birthday as John Wayne. Patricia is looking forward to connecting with her ancestral lands and people and understanding the “whys” of how Koniag operates. Welcome to Koniag! 

Meet Deya, another one of Koniag’s brilliant Angayuk Interns. He is studying Computer Science at the University of Utah. Here are some fun facts about him: He has pet a female lion. Deya is most looking forward to exploring the Kodiak Brown Bear Center & Lodge to experience wildlife and nature to its fullest. Welcome to Koniag! 

Koniag’s social mission originated with our Alutiiq ancestors who have called our region home for thousands of years.  Our values are a part of everything that we do — every engagement and investment decision is a reflection of our commitment to living our culture.  Learn more about Koniag’s social mission at https://lnkd.in/g3HZpMh8.  

Meet Calli, one of Koniag’s Angayuk Interns this summer! She is studying Graphic Design and Advertisement at Grand Canyon University in Arizona. Here is more about her: She performed in a lip-sync battle in front of her whole university and placed in the top three. While not being able to live in Alaska for very long, her roots are strong with being Alaska Native as it runs on her mother’s side. This internship gives her an opportunity to learn more about her family tree and build connections in this community.  Calli is most excited to learn more about the history of Koniag and gain real-world experience with her degree. Welcome to Koniag! 

Our stakeholders come from diverse places and circumstances, ranging from those living in rural Alaska villages to large cities around the world, and in different stages of their lives from respected Elders to youthful descendants. We celebrate our diversity and recognize that it is a source of strength to help us persevere and prosper. Learn more about Koniag’s core values at https://lnkd.in/gYuPBDvT. 

Koniag holds title to approximately 143,000 acres of surface estate and approximately 990,000 acres of subsurface estate. Our Alutiiq people have been the stewards of these lands and resources for more than 7,500 years. At Koniag we recognize that our strongest ties to our Alutiiq culture, history, and heritage come through our connection with our lands and the natural resources that continue to support and provide for our people. Learn more at https://lnkd.in/gFsFAYFY.  

Today marks a milestone as we celebrate Koniag’s fifty-second anniversary. Koniag was incorporated on June 23, 1972. In the decades since, we have grown and evolved but our commitment to advocating for our people, our communities, and our lands remains as strong as ever. As we look ahead to the next fifty-two years, we are excited to continue building toward our vision of Sugpiat, Angliyukut | Real People, Real Growth. 

Kiak (summer) is a time for us to embrace the long hours of daylight, gather with loved ones, and cherish the bounty of our busiest season. Whether you are fishing, berry picking, or simply enjoying the warmer weather, let us celebrate the new season together. Happy first day of summer from Koniag!