Bobbie McNeley was determined to find a program that was specific to Alaska Native Law and the University of Fairbanks was the only college to offer such a program in the country. It all started at the age of 16 when her tribe from home, Nelson Lagoon hired her. During the two summers, she worked there, she felt the need to know much more about the tribe. While attending high school, she took as many social science classes as were offered and noticed in all government and U.S history classes, there wasn’t much taught on Alaska Native tribes or government policy.
Bobbie participated in the Korean Maritime Institute and UArctic Korea Arctic Academy in July 2017 and December 2017 for the Arctic Partnership week. With the experience and knowledge she gained from the program, she wanted to expand to other communities around the globe. She traveled to Reykjavik, Iceland in October 2017 with the Arctic Youth Ambassadors for the Arctic Assembly. As of January 2018, Bobbie was selected for the Senator Ted Stevens Legislative Internship Program and worked closely with Representative Bryce Edgmon, Democratic Speaker of the Alaska House of Representatives. After completing the internship, she received a certificate and was given the 2018 Marion Frances Boswell Memorial Award by the University of Alaska Fairbanks for recognition of students who distinguish themselves in their academic careers.
Bobbie has plans to make changes in her home state and to work from her community of Nelson Lagoon in the legal field and as a corporate lawyer.
“Dear Aleut Foundation and Aleut Corporation,
I graduated with a BA in Alaska Native Studies with a concentration in Alaska Native Law Government and Politics and a minor in Law Society, as well as an AAS in Tribal Management. There is nothing that will get in my way to continue my career. I will continue to develop my skills. The Aleut Foundation scholarship is an immense help, so I can focus on my career and educational goals.
Sincerely,
Bobbie McNeley”
Congratulations Bobbie McNeley! We are proud of your achievement!! – TAF