Camai,

As I write this letter, a hardworking crew is outside my window at the BBNC building assembling the iconic salmon lights that will lend some festive cheer as the nights grow longer here in Anchorage. The indigo-colored lights and fish will greet everyone driving on A and C Streets during the coming holiday weeks when the days are very short.

As we prepare for the holiday season, we know these months can be stressful for students and their families. We may struggle with too much to do. Exams, travel, sports, work, and seasonal illnesses can all pile up, particularly if they are coupled with life’s hardships, like the loss of a loved one or an expected change in job. In those times, having someone to reach out and talk with can be critical.

The Bristol Bay Foundation (BBF) is committed to supporting Bristol Bay students to ensure their success by providing additional services beyond their scholarship awards. This month, we are announcing a new Mental Health Support program for all BBF student recipients. We’ve partnered with the Virtual Health Group to provide 24-hour mental health support for BBF students, including counseling, life coaching, and crisis intervention through a user-friendly app, web portal, or call center. Our aim is to connect students with licensed therapists, crisis counselors, and a wide network of accredited providers. This program is possible thanks to funding provided by the Alaska Mental Health Trust Authority. To learn more, please visit bristolbayfoundation.org/mentalhealthsupport.

Please help us share this resource with the BBF students in your life. If you should have additional questions, please contact Joanie Fullwood at (907) 265-7810 or joanie@bristolbayfoundation.org.

We’re here to support all our BBF student recipients.

Aleesha Towns-Bain
Bristol Bay Foundation Executive Director

Cultural Heritage Program

BBF offers two grant programs that seek to preserve and promote the rich Alaska Native heritage of Bristol Bay: the Cultural Heritage (Piniq’) and Native Place Names grant programs. Over the years, these two programs have supported 120 projects, with grant awards totaling over $568,148.

If you are a tribal organization, school, or non-profit organization, we encourage you to apply for a Piniq’ or Native Place Names grant. If you have any questions, please contact Kay Larson-Blair at kay@bristolbayfoundation.org or (907) 265-7852.

New Staff Member Miles King

BBF is excited to announce new staff member, Miles King, Bristol Bay Teaching and Learning Collaborative (BBTLC) Experiential Learning Coordinator and Mentor.

Miles states, “Born and raised in Naknek, Alaska, I’ve navigated two diverse worlds – the challenges of commercial fishing and the transformative power of education. Armed with a Bachelor of Inclusive Elementary Education from the University of Colorado and a Master of Organizational Leadership, I’ve dedicated the past five years to inspiring young minds and fostering a love for learning.

Now, as the BBTLC Experiential Learning Coordinator and Mentor for BBF, I have the privilege of blending my passion for education with my deep community ties. I’m committed to driving positive change in education, rooted in the values instilled by my hometown. Beyond work, I find joy in exploring new destinations with my loving wife, reminding me of the importance of diverse experiences and meaningful connections.

In all I do, I embrace determination, lifelong learning, and a love for both the challenges of the sea and the joys of education.”