Ben Mallott has been chosen as the next president of the Alaska Federation of Natives (AFN), the organization announced on Friday. Mallott, who currently serves as AFN’s vice president of external affairs and has been with the organization for 11 years, will take over from Julie Kitka, who is stepping down after leading AFN for decades.
Board Co-Chair Joe Nelson praised Mallott’s alignment with AFN’s mission and values, emphasizing his steady leadership within the organization. Mallott, the son of the late former Lt. Gov. Byron Mallott, also holds positions on the boards of several other organizations related to Alaska Native heritage and conservation.
U.S. Sen. Lisa Murkowski commended Mallott’s empathy, dedication, and understanding of the challenges facing Alaska Native communities, based on his previous work as a legislative assistant for her on Native and Indian affairs. Mallott will officially assume the role of president in August, with an overlap period with Kitka until October, when Kitka will be the keynote speaker at AFN’s annual convention in Anchorage.
In a statement, Mallott expressed his honor in taking on the role and his commitment to working closely with all communities to advocate for a strong future together. He also thanked Kitka for her leadership and dedication, expressing his intention to build upon the foundation she has established during her time with AFN. The AFN’s annual convention in October will celebrate Kitka’s legacy as she passes the torch to Mallott.
Source
Photo credit www.adn.com