CIRI descendent Automme Anderson is CIRI's summer community relations intern. In this temporary position, she provides general clerical and special project support to the community relations specialist. Anderson's primary responsibility is to assist with the coordination of the CIRI Golf Classic. In addition, she processes numerous corporate donation requests, coordinates and participates in community and special events, and maintains community and media relations notebooks. Anderson, who was born and raised in Anchorage and is of Athabascan heritage, is the daughter of CIRI shareholder Jeri Anderson and Bill Anderson and granddaughter of the late CIRI shareholder Lena Clark.

Automme Anderson Community Relations Intern

"I have had a lot of fun in my job and have had an opportunity to learn about CIRI, my Athabascan heritage, Alaska Native issues, and real world work experience related to my degree," says Anderson. "Dawn Dinwoodie, CIRI's community relations specialist, has inspired and motivated me to get involved in the community, which has provided me the opportunity to learn about my heritage and the experience needed for any job.

"This summer I have become involved with many organizations such as: We The People, American Heart Association, Indian Education Committee, United Way, Bean's Café, the Renaissance Zone Rehabilitation Program, and Get Out The Native Vote. I look forward to sharing my experiences as a CIRI intern with other descendants," adds Anderson.

As part of her internship, Anderson has developed several professional and personal goals: developing communication skills to become an effective professional communicator, joining a board or commission, getting involved in the community, and reaching out to Alaska Native youth to learn about Alaska Native issues.

Anderson graduated in May from the University of Alaska Anchorage with a bachelor's degree in business administration and an emphasis in marketing. She plans to pursue a master's degree next spring. In her free time, she is an avid snowboarder and outdoorswoman and enjoys the companionship of her giant Alaska malamute Denali.

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