TCF Proud: Recipient Stories
Every educational journey has meaning. Explore personal stories of determination, cultural pride, and career accomplishment from CIRI shareholders and descendants whose dreams are supported by The CIRI Foundation.
Featured Journeys
Stories of Resilience & Leadership
Larry Hawkins
“Because of The CIRI Foundation, I was able to achieve a goal of mine and start focusing on giving back through my knowledge.”
Some paths take time to come into focus. For Larry Hawkins, the direction was always there. He just had to find his way back to it. A proud descendant raised in a community where hard work, mentorship, and the trades were part of everyday life. Today, he lives in Anchorage and works on the North Slope for NANA.
Caleb Asselin
“TCF support helped me stay focused on academics and complete my Bachelor's degree without overwhelming debt.”
Caleb Asselin pursued his passion for structural and northern climate engineering through the University of Alaska Anchorage. As a CIRI descendant, Caleb recognized the critical need for infrastructure engineered specifically to withstand Alaska's extreme thermal, permafrost, and seismic conditions.
Emily Magara
“Without The CIRI Foundation, I would not have been able to afford school on a single income. Their support allowed me to focus on my studies.”
At 26 years old, Emily Magara lives in Western New York with her husband and four children. She is a proud CIRI descendant and holds that connection close. Her relationship with The CIRI Foundation began in 2013, when her oldest brother applied for scholarships. His path introduced her to opportunities she now continues in her own way.
Archive of Success
More TCF Proud Stories
Over four decades of Alaska Native achievement in higher education, vocational trades, healthcare, and community arts.
Darla Rivera
“TCF didn't just fund my education — it told me my community believes in what I'm building.”
Dylan Boston
“I had people I could lean on. We studied together. It surprised me how much easier it was to learn when we helped each other.”
Madison Perkins
“Never give up and always work as hard as you can. It will get you a long way, and when you look back, you will never regret not trying.”
Anita Johnson
“By Rachael Fisher, TCF Communications Manager”
Ann Caindec
“Ann’s indigenous heritage is intricately woven into her identity, her roots stemming from a Tlingit mother and a Hawaiian father. This rich upbring...”
Carrie Beck
“This May, I graduated with my Masters in Clinical Mental Health Counseling, my daughter graduated with her Masters in Experimental/Social Psycholog...”
Carter Eaton
“When Carter first set foot at Arizona State University four years ago, he thought it would be a seamless transition from high school. Little did he...”
Hannah Lowery
“I am going into my senior year of college in the nursing program at Arizona State University. Currently, my plan is to become a postpartum nurse or...”
Harmony Nyitrai
“By Rachael Fisher, TCF Communications Manager”
Jacob Schmidt
“Dear The CIRI Foundation, I wanted to take a moment and try to put into words what the support I have received over the years has meant to me. Fina...”
Kaylee Merrill
“Kaylee Merrill is a 2023 graduate of SUNY Potsdam with a Bachelor’s Degree in Exercise Science with magna cum laude honors. Kaylee was awarded Outs...”
Laura Cantrell
“These wise words are simply timeless. And when an eligible CIRI shareholder or descendant is ready to embrace their potential, The CIRI Foundation ...”
Lynn Carroll
“Lynn Carroll (descendent) graduated with a Bachelor’s in Biosystems Engineering from the University of Arizona this May. Previously, Lynn served as...”
Mauri Butzke
““I recently graduated from Fort Lewis College with a B.S. in Biochemistry, a minor in Native American and Indigenous Studies, and a pre-health cert...”
Maverick Merrill
“Maverick Merrill graduated this May with a Bachelor’s Degree in Wildlife Biology. He is already working for Fish and Game. He is in Eagle, Alaska, ...”
Sabrina Walker
“Gunalchéesh for supporting my journey. I am honored that I received scholarships from The CIRI Foundation. I graduated with a Master’s of Legal Stu...”
Shara Diamond
“Hello,”
Ashlee Rowland “Now I am Certified!”
“As of October I graduated from my vigorous 800 hour nutrition certification program. I learned so much during the program and would now love to get...”
Are You TCF Proud?
We want to celebrate your milestones, degree completions, trade certifications, promotions, and cultural achievements. Let the community know where your hard work and education have taken you.
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