Board of Directors
Meet the active Board of Directors guiding The CIRI Foundation's academic scholarship and heritage grant programs, ensuring sustainable investment in Alaska Native futures.
Jeffrey A. Gonnason, OD
TCF Board Chair
Cynthia L. Muller
Board Director
Louis “Lou” Nagy Jr.
Board Director
Jessica Greiner
Board Director
Donna James
Board Director
Ryan Newton
Board Director
Tosha Swan Pereira
Board Director
Deanna Sackett
Board Director
Susan Wells
Board Director
David Wight
Board Director
Cheryl Wilga, PhD
Board Director
Board membership and officers are actively listed here based on current foundation directories. Photos and detailed autobiographical profiles are proudly sourced from public archives or provided directly by board members.
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 to tcfadmin@thecirifoundation.org or mail to:
The CIRI Foundation
Attn: Development Committee
3201 C Street, Suite 506
Anchorage, AK 99503