Welcome to the
Na’eda Network
“Na’eda” means “Our Friends” in the Dena’ina Athabascan language of Cook Inlet.
The Na’eda Network brings together people whose educational journeys have been supported by The CIRI Foundation. Whether you are preparing for your first semester, completing a CTE vocational program, building your career, or sharing years of leadership, you are part of a lifelong community.
Different Paths. One Network.
Connecting scholars, alumni, mentors, and community leaders across Alaska and beyond.
A Network Built Around People
The Na’eda Network organizes member programming around four foundational pillars that extend far beyond a scholarship check by creating continuous opportunities to connect, learn, and uplift one another.
Community & Connection
Connecting CIRI recipients living across Alaska and the Lower 48 through regional meetups, virtual sector roundtables, and special alumni events.
Mentorship & Guidance
Pairing current undergraduate and trade students with seasoned professionals working across ANCSA corporations, engineering firms, healthcare systems, and tech.
Cultural Grounding
Ensuring educational and career advancement remains intimately tied to Alaska Native values, intergenerational knowledge exchange, and cultural stewardship.
Alumni Giving & Leadership
Creating pathways for alumni to volunteer as scholarship evaluators, guest speakers, board committee leaders, and philanthropic supporters.
A Growing Network Across Alaska
TCF scholarship recipients and alumni connecting across diverse disciplines, industries, and Alaskan communities.
Community Needs Assessment Findings
In 2024, The CIRI Foundation conducted a comprehensive Community Needs Assessment and Workforce Needs Study across CIRI shareholders and descendants. The findings directly shaped the design and expansion of the Na’eda Network.
High Demand for Mentorship
Over 74% of surveyed scholars and alumni expressed a strong desire to connect with mentors who share Alaska Native cultural background and industry experience.
Workforce Navigation Support
Respondents highlighted the transition from education to early career—particularly in healthcare, skilled trades, and IT—as the highest leverage opportunity for alumni networking.
Desire for Lifelong Community
Alumni overwhelmingly wanted sustained connection with TCF beyond graduation, providing opportunities to give back and inspire future generations.
Requested Alumni Mentorship
Emphasized Career Networking
Priority Industry Hubs
Dedicated to Alaska Native Success
Voices of the Na’eda Network
Hear directly from CIRI Foundation recipients whose education and careers have made a lasting impact across Alaska.
“The CIRI Foundation believed in me when I took the leap to pursue engineering. Now, being able to mentor new incoming students through Na’eda brings that journey full circle.”
“The CTE scholarship allowed me to complete my heavy equipment certifications with zero debt. Connecting with fellow tradespeople in Na’eda keeps our network strong across Alaska.”
“Having access to a directory of professionals who understand the unique cultural responsibilities and values we carry as Alaska Native scholars is invaluable.”
Ready to Connect with Your Community?
Whether you are currently receiving funding or completed your education years ago, we welcome you to the Na’eda Network.