The CIRI Foundation seeks CIRI shareholders, descendants for Board
The CIRI Foundation (TCF) was established as a 501(c) 3, private foundation, in 1982. It was originally incorporated as a separate non-profit entity by the CIRI Board of Directors.
The major goal of TCF is to encourage the education and career development of the Foundation’s Alaska Native beneficiaries through post-secondary scholarships and grants, research, and other education projects. A second goal is to perpetuate and enhance the heritage of Cook Inlet Region’s indigenous people through programs that foster appreciation among Alaska Native people and understanding by the general public.
The organization has grown in 25 years to include a six-employee team who administer a $53 million endowment. TCF is governed by a Board of Directors. The board consists of fifteen members, a majority of whom are appointed by the CIRI Board of Directors with the remaining selected by the TCF Board of Directors.
What is expected of a CIRI Foundation Board member?
Directors are responsible for determining the business affairs and policies of the non-profit corporation that further TCF’s organizational goal which is to promote individual self-development and economic self-sufficiency through education. The TCF Board meets four times a year, usually in Anchorage. All directors are appointed to three-year terms. In addition, the TCF Board appoints members to the Executive, Finance and Endowment, Education Awards, Nominating, and Long Range Planning Committees.
Qualifications
TCF encourages qualified and professional CIRI shareholders and their direct lineal descendants to apply for consideration. Candidates must be at least 18 years of age; be well-rounded with a demonstrated understanding of business operations; experience or high-level of interest in the field of education; financial investment knowledge; be a strong decision-maker; possess strong leadership and communication skills, demonstrate honesty and integrity; and be actively involved in Alaska Native issues. Board members’ family members* are not eligible to receive awards during the term served and current Foundation recipients are not eligible to serve. *Disqualified family members of any sitting board member include only his/her spouse, ancestors, children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and the spouses of children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.
Interested candidates should apply in writing by sending their current resume with at least two references to The CIRI Foundation, Attn: Nominating Committee, 3600 San Jeronimo Drive, Suite 256, Anchorage, Alaska 99508. All Board Applicant Pool resumes will be kept on file for a year from the date of submission. At the appropriate time, the Nominating Committee will review the resumes and arrange for telephone or in-person interviews with qualified candidates. Final recommendations will then be submitted to the TCF Board of Directors, who will make selection decisions and appointment recommendations. For additional information, contact The CIRI Foundation at tcf@thecirifoundation.org, 907.793.3575 or 1.800.764.3382.
