CIRI Director Robert Harris (Inupiaq), who joined the CIRI Board in 2011, submitted his letter of resignation, effective July 29. Robert accepted an executive-level position at another Alaska Native corporation and resigned from the CIRI Board to avoid any potential conflicts of interest.
On behalf of CIRI, I would like to thank Robert for his years of service to our company. Among his fellow Directors, he is known for his insight into business and technology, strong financial acumen, understanding of local economies and passion for service to Alaska Native communities. When I asked Robert what he will miss most about serving on the CIRI Board, he said he will miss working with the Board to grow the company, improve economic opportunities for Shareholders and Descendants, and increase Shareholder distributions. He added: “This is an exciting time for CIRI, and I am confident the Board is well positioned to continue their efforts to strengthen and build our company for generations to come. My thanks to our Shareholders and Descendants, Chair Fifer and my fellow Directors for the opportunity to serve.”
At the request of the CIRI Board, the CIRI Board Nominating and Governance Committee considered options for filling the vacancy for the remainder of Robert’s term, ending in 2026. I’m pleased to inform you the committee recommended Lisa Huffman (Athabascan), a 2024 applicant, to the Board. The CIRI Board unanimously voted to support the committee’s recommendation and appointed Ms. Huffman to the Board effective Aug. 23.
Lisa is a CIRI Shareholder and enrolled member of the Kenaitze Indian Tribe. She began her career as a teacher and principal in the Anchorage and Fairbanks North Star School Districts, followed by a five-year stint as the chief administrative officer for The Aleut Corporation. Since 2023, Lisa has been an owner and managing member of Huffman Properties, LLC, an Alaska-based real estate and investment company. She holds bachelor’s and master’s degrees from the University of Alaska Anchorage and is a graduate of the Alaska Native Executive Leadership Program at Alaska Pacific University.
Please join me in thanking Robert Harris for his many years of service and welcoming Lisa Huffman to the CIRI Board!
Warm regards,
Doug Fifer
Chair, CIRI Board of Directors
