First Alaskans Institute Intern Returns as Communications Director

A Journey Full Circle: Carissa Larson Returns to First Alaskans Institute to Amplify Alaska Native Voices.

The First Alaskans Institute (FAI), a statewide nonprofit dedicated to advancing Alaska Native voices in decision-making, has welcomed Carissa Larson back to its team as the new Communications Director. Larson, who first connected with FAI as a Communications Intern in 2017, will now guide the organization’s communication strategy and shape storytelling efforts that uplift Alaska Native leadership and community-driven solutions. An Alutiiq/Sugpiaq woman with family roots in Kodiak, Chignik Bay, Perryville, and Dillingham, she brings a deep understanding of Alaska’s diverse Indigenous cultures and a passion for community engagement to this pivotal role.

What This Means for Anchorage
This appointment is significant for Anchorage residents, especially given our city’s status as a hub for Alaska Native organizations and home to a large, vibrant Alaska Native population across neighborhoods like Spenard, Mountain View, and Fairview. FAI’s work directly impacts the policies and dialogues that shape our community, from education and healthcare to economic development. Larson’s leadership in communications means Anchorage can look forward to more robust storytelling that highlights the invaluable contributions and perspectives of Alaska Native people, fostering a more informed and inclusive local discourse. Her expertise will help ensure that the voices and solutions emanating from our diverse Alaska Native communities are heard clearly, contributing to a stronger, more equitable Anchorage for everyone.

Local Context
Alaska’s unique landscape, both geographically and culturally, makes organizations like the First Alaskans Institute indispensable. With 229 federally recognized tribes and a rich tapestry of Indigenous cultures, Alaska Native communities are foundational to our state’s identity and future. FAI’s statewide reach, operating from its Anchorage base, ensures that perspectives from coastal villages like Kodiak and Chignik Bay, where Larson’s family originates, are brought to the forefront alongside those from urban centers. This focus on Indigenous leadership is vital in a state where subsistence practices remain critical, Alaska Native corporations are major economic drivers, and the outdoor lifestyle is deeply intertwined with cultural heritage. Larson’s personal connection to these communities and her dedication to carrying forward knowledge and ways of life through storytelling perfectly align with Alaska’s distinct cultural fabric.

What to Know
Anchorage residents interested in learning more or supporting the advancement of Alaska Native voices can follow the First Alaskans Institute’s work through their website and community events. Keep an eye on FAI’s communications under Carissa Larson’s direction for insightful stories, policy updates, and opportunities to engage in meaningful dialogue about issues affecting our state’s