Leadership Updates

Dec 13, 2024

Letter from the President & CEO

Aang Unangax̂ Family,

As 2024 comes to a close, I’m proud to reflect on what has been a truly remarkable year for Aleut. It would not have been possible without your unwavering support and the dedicated efforts of the entire Aleut team.

It was a privilege to connect with so many of you at this year’s Annual Meeting. We had an outstanding turnout, and I’m delighted to welcome Marii Qagnax̂ Swetzof to the Aleut Board of Directors.

This year, we also celebrated the highest voter turnout in the Corporation’s history—a demonstration of your commitment to securing a thriving future for generations of Unangax̂ shareholders to come.

With overwhelming support, both ballot measures passed. Establishing the ANCSA Settlement Trust is a historic moment for all of us. And removing the debt ceiling is a transformative step that will provide greater flexibility and financial stability for Aleut. These changes allow us to better serve you while ensuring sustainable growth. We will continue to provide updates on these initiatives as we move forward.

As our fiscal year end approaches on March 31, 2025, I’m pleased to report that our subsidiaries are performing ahead of projected income and remain on budget. This success underscores the effectiveness of our strategic focus on disciplined and balanced growth. The momentum we built last year, and this energizes us to plan for future opportunities ahead.

One significant highlight is the official launch of Aleut Real Estate’s Tayal Brokerage. Under the leadership of Mike Jenks, Tayal Brokerage will expand Aleut’s footprint in Alaska’s real estate market while building stronger relationships within the Anchorage business community. You can find additional details about this new offering, as well as other subsidiary updates here.

The dedication and talent of the Aleut team has been instrumental in driving this year’s success. I’d like to extend my congratulations to the following shareholder employees on their well-earned promotions: Chasity Wilson, Maggie Samuelson, Diana Mack, Lauren Boots, Kailyn Kashevarof, and Samantha Mack. Their accomplishments embody the values and hard work that define Team Aleut, and I look forward to their continued contributions in the years ahead.

As we step into 2025, Aleut’s progress remains a reflection of the collective efforts of our shareholders, employees, and leadership. Together, we are building a stronger, more resilient corporation, and I am deeply grateful for your engagement and support.

Wishing you and your families a safe and joyful holiday season.

Qaĝaasakung,

Skoey Aachax̂ Vergen
Aleut President & CEO

December 2024

Board Chair Report

Happy Holidays, Unangax̂ Shareholders & Descendants!

As we transition into the winter months, I want to take a moment to reflect on the highlights from the 52nd Annual Meeting of Shareholders.

We had an impressive turnout at this year’s Annual Meeting with over 360 shareholders and descendants joining us in person and nearly 100 more on our virtual webcast. Seeing so many of you come together to connect and engage with Aleut is inspiring. It reminds me of the strength of our community and how much we can accomplish when we work together.

A warm congratulations to Marii Swetzof on her election to the Board of Directors. We are thrilled to welcome her to the Board and look forward to the valuable perspective and leadership she will bring. At the same time, we extend our deepest gratitude to Colleen Dushkin for her six years of service on the Board. Colleen’s contributions have been instrumental to Aleut’s achievements, and we are incredibly grateful for her leadership.

One of my favorite moments at the Annual Meeting was recognizing Tamara Odden, our Student of the Year, and Harriet Berikoff, our Shareholder of the Year. Tamara represents the importance of education to our community’s success. We are proud to support our students as they pursue their academic and professional dreams. Harriet has demonstrated remarkable dedication and commitment to our culture and community. It was an honor to recognize both their achievements during the Annual Meeting.

Looking ahead, the integration of The Aleut Foundation into Aleut marks a turning point for our growing shareholder services department. As we shared during the meeting, this transition streamlines operations and strengthens our ability to expand shareholder support programs, including education and training initiatives. With the full backing of Aleut’s resources and staff, we’re excited to provide more impactful services to our shareholders and students.

As we prepare for 2025, I’m filled with optimism. The direction we are moving positions the Corporation for sustainable long-term growth. Whether it’s through new opportunities like the ANCSA Settlement Trust or the continued development of shareholder programs, we are building a future that reflects the values and aspirations of our people.

I want to express my gratitude for your continued support as I continue to serve as Aleut’s Board Chair. On behalf of the Board of Directors, I wish you and your families a bright and peaceful holiday season.

Qaĝaasakung,

Jenifer Samuelson Nelson
Aleut Board Chair

December 2024

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