Board Chair Albert Kookesh is making slow but steady progress at Providence Alaska Medical Center in Anchorage. During the past 48 hours, he has become more awake and alert, and his family has enjoyed the opportunity to communicate with him. His strength is slowly returning.

The family will provide an update when calls and visits will be allowed, and ask for understanding that Albert needs plenty of rest at this time. Please remember that due to Albert’s allergy to many flowers, the family has requested no floral deliveries. They thank so many for their thoughts and prayers and want everyone to know the comfort and support it brings to the whole family.

Through Values In Action, Sealaska upholds Haa Latseen (our strength, leadership) by appointing a board of directors youth advisor each year. There is one week left to submit an application with three letters of recommendation to Sealaska to be considered for the board youth advisor position. The application and guidelines for the position are available for download here. The deadline to submit an application is Friday, March 1, 2013.

The Sealaska directors recognize that the newest generation of shareholders has much to contribute. Through the experience, participants will develop leadership skills. The maximum age for applicants at the March 1, 2013 deadline is no older than 29 years. The one-year term is June 2013 – June 2014.

Megan Gregory served as the inaugural board youth advisor in 2009. Barbara Blake and Ralph Wolfe served in 2010 and 2011. Madeline Soboleff-Levy currently serves. “I have learned more about Sealaska’s place as a contemporary business competing in today’s economy, and am still learning about our forestry business and impressive silviculture practices,” said Soboleff. 

Watch a video about her experience here.

Marlene Johnson has dedicated her life to fighting for Native people and their rights. She was a member of Sealaska’s first board of directors and has served as chair and vice chair. 

In high school, she took a stand against racism by removing signs in stores that read “no dogs or Indians allowed.” She would later lobby for land claims and was directly involved in the formation of Sealaska.

Click here to learn why Johnson became involved in Native politics.