FAQ – The CIRI Foundation
How can I join TCF’s Board of Directors?
TCF BOARD MEMBER POOL
Resumes are always welcome! TCF will hold onto your information for review should a seat become available if you submit a resume when the board is full.
About the Board
The CIRI Foundation (TCF) is governed by a Board of Directors. The board consists of up to fifteen members with a majority of whom are appointed by the Cook Inlet Region, Inc. Board of Directors, the remaining are selected by The CIRI Foundation Board of Directors.
The CIRI Foundation was established as a 501(c)3, private foundation, in 1982. It was originally incorporated as a separate non-profit entity by the Cook Inlet Region, Inc. Board of Directors. The major goal of The CIRI Foundation 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 since 1982 to include an eight-employee team who administer a ~$50,000,000 endowment.
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 The CIRI Foundation’s organizational goal which is to promote individual self-development and economic self-sufficiency through education. The CIRI Foundation Board meets four times a year, usually in Anchorage. All directors are appointed to three-year terms. In addition, The CIRI Foundation Board appoints members to the Executive, Finance and Endowment, Education Awards, and Development Committees.
Qualifications for Board of Directors
The CIRI Foundation 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 advancing Alaska Native education, language, and culture.
Please note: Directors’ family members* are not eligible to receive awards during the term served. Current award recipients are not eligible to serve on the board, however past TCF Recipients are highly encouraged to apply.
Selection Process
If TCF is not actively seeking board members, applications are accepted at any time and will be reviewed should an opening occur. All resumes and applications for the Board Applicant Pool will be kept on file for one (1) year from the date of submission.
When a board seat becomes available, The CIRI Foundation Board of Directors’ Development Committee will review the board pool resumes and arrange for telephone or in-person interviews with qualified candidates as appropriate.
Final recommendations will then be submitted to The CIRI Foundation Board of Directors who will make selection decisions and appointment recommendations.
Application: TCF Board of Director Application
Interested board pool candidates may apply by sending their current resume and completed application to The CIRI Foundation, Attn: Development Committee, 3201 C Street, Suite 506, Anchorage, AK 99503.
For additional information please contact The CIRI Foundation.
*Disqualified members of the family defined –
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.
