My name is Lisa Huffman (Athabascan), and I was recently appointed to serve my fellow Shareholders and Descendants on the CIRI Board of Directors. I was a 2024 CIRI Board applicant, and in August, I was appointed by the CIRI Board Nominating and Governance Committee to fill the vacancy left by departing Director Robert Harris.
My journey with CIRI is rooted in a profound respect for our shared heritage and the future of our community. Throughout my life, I have witnessed firsthand the incredible impacts CIRI has had on our people and our region. From supporting cultural initiatives to driving economic development, CIRI’s work has always been a source of pride and inspiration for me.
I am a lifelong Alaskan, born in Anchorage and raised in Fairbanks. I attended the University of Alaska Anchorage, earning a bachelor’s degree in elementary education and a master’s degree in public school administration. I am a retired educator and elementary school principal and spent five years as the chief administrative officer for The Aleut Corporation, the Alaska Native regional corporation for the Aleutian Islands. I currently own and manage my own real estate and investment company, Huffman Properties LLC.
I was gifted CIRI shares by my mother, Virginia Poggas Miller. I am the granddaughter of James Poggas and Maxine Hendricks, the great-granddaughter of Iraida Darien and George Poggas, and the great-great-granddaughter of Alexandria Oskolkoff and Alexander Darien Sr. In addition to being a CIRI Shareholder, I am an enrolled member of the Kenaitze Indian Tribe.
My decision to apply to the CIRI Board came from a strong desire to become more actively involved in our corporation. Serving on the Board allows me to contribute to CIRI’s mission of enhancing the quality of life for our Shareholders and their families and fostering sustainable growth. I am excited about the opportunity to work alongside dedicated colleagues and bring fresh perspectives to the table.
Outside of work, I enjoy connecting with nature through subsistence, hiking and biking. I also enjoy cooking, spending time with friends and family, and exploring new places through travel. My current community involvement includes the Kenaitze Indian Tribe, commission chair of the Tribal Employee Rights Office and member of the Education Committee; the Municipality of Anchorage, executive board member of the Huffman O’Malley Community Council; and Alaska Pacific University, board member of the Alaska Native Executive Leadership Program. Each of these organizations provides individuals with the support, skills and inspiration they need to improve their lives.
My vision for the future of CIRI is one where we continue to build upon our strong foundation while embracing innovation and sustainability. I see a corporation that preserves and celebrates our Alaska Native heritage while adapting to new opportunities and challenges. By fostering growth in diverse areas, CIRI works to ensure long-term prosperity and provide meaningful, positive impact in the lives of our Shareholders and Descendants. I am excited to continue my journey with CIRI as a member of your Board of Directors.
