There is still plenty of snow on the ground here in our region, but the sun has returned, and the days are growing longer—we made it through another winter, and spring has arrived! This is an exciting time for CIRI as we resume in-person Information Meetings and Annual Meeting, prepare to welcome our summer interns, and make plans for warm-weather camping, cycling, fishing and hiking.
CIRI’s 2022 Annual Report was mailed to Shareholders in mid-April. In addition to the previous year’s financial information, the report includes information about our tribes and villages, the CIRI family of socially driven enterprises, and many of our programs and services. CIRI Descendants will receive a Descendant Annual Report with information specifically for you. I hope you will take the time to read these reports, as they not only provide a deeper understanding of what we do and how we do it, but also offer information about our region, culture and people.
The theme of this year’s Annual Report is “In the Family.” As Alaska Native people, our traditions and culture provide a sense of identity, continuity and connection; the practice and transmission of heritage contributes to the ongoing vitality, strength and well-being of our people. We are part of not only our immediate family, but our CIRI family and the broader Alaska Native community.
It was announced in April that I will conclude my 30-year career with CIRI at the end of this year. The Board of Directors has launched a search for my successor. I have been honored by the trust our Shareholders and Descendants have placed in me the last 10 years while I served as your president and CEO. As a proud Shareholder, I am grateful to have led the CIRI team as we championed efforts to preserve and perpetuate Alaska Native culture and support current and future generations through corporate growth, distribution payments, job creation, and other social and cultural services. I am excited to continue this critical work throughout 2023 with the amazing CIRI team.
Though I will no longer serve in the capacity of president and CEO after this year, I am a proud member of our CIRI family, and that will never change.
I am excited to see you, valued members of our CIRI family, at the 2023 CIRI Annual Meeting, which will be held Saturday, June 3 in Anchorage and at our Friendship Potlatches this fall.
Warm regards,
Sophie Minich
