RICHARD CAMILLERI | 39 ASSOCIATE ATTORNEY

LANDYE BENNETT BLUMSTEIN LLP

Hometown: Utqiaġvik

Current City: Anchorage

Education: Juris Doctor, Temple University, Beasley School of Law, May 2017, Deans List; Bachelor of Arts in public policy and political science, Syracuse University, Maxwell School of Public Affairs, May 2005, Magna Cum Laude, General Honors; Barrow High School, May 2001

Community Work: Member of Makalik Whaling Crew in Utqiaġvik; Founding Member of Leadership:Barrow, which provides mentorship and support to young leaders in Utqiaġvik; Organizer and administrator, Barrow High School Alumni Scholarship Program to graduating high school seniors, now in its 13th year; NeighborWorks Alaska Board Member, providing affordable housing and strengthening neighborhoods in the state; Volunteer mentor or “Big” with Big Brothers Big Sisters of Alaska; Selective Service Local Board Member for Alaska, to assist with deferments, postponements and exemptions in the event of a military draft.

Family: I am the son of Morrie and Rosanna Lemen of Utqiaġvik and the youngest of six siblings. I am also the proud uncle to over 30 nieces and nephews.

What is your favorite place in Alaska and why?: The fall back home in Utqiaġvik, when the tundra is changing colors and the sun starts to set for the winter. The experience of the crisp fall air paired with slow sunsets over the Arctic Ocean that are immediately followed by slow sunrises has a beauty that is unmatched.

Name the person you respect and why: I respect my parents, Morrie and Rosanna Lemen, for teaching me at a young age the importance of showing respect, kindness and generosity to others. They consistently lead by example through selfless acts to help and show love to family, friends and community.

What is your favorite pastime or hobby away from work?: I love traveling and eating well, and perhaps most enjoy curating a dinner table full of family and friends with excellent food, drinks and conversation.

What was your first job?: I was a sales clerk at a local video store in Utqiaġvik.

What has been your most rewarding community service?: Having the privilege to assist in the subsistence harvest of the bowhead whale as a member of my family's whaling crew through our captain and my brother-in-law, Makalik Wilhelm. Although geography has limited my ability to participate over the years, it's incredibly fulfilling when I am able to make it home to help.

In your professional life, what has been a project or achievement you have found to be the most fulfilling?: It has been fulfilling to have had the continuous direction and support from family and community to go out, gain diverse experiences and meet my educational goals. The fulfillment continues as I have returned to Alaska and am able to give back and assist communities each day, particularly throughout rural Alaska. My present position allows me to help many across the state, whether with cities, boroughs, tribes, nonprofits or Alaska Native Corporations, through a variety of projects and tasks, from the big to the small.

Based on your own experiences, what advice would you give on maintaining a good work-life balance?: Be deliberate about regularly assessing how you are allocating your time. There will always be an abundance of opportunities and demands in your professional, community, family and personal spheres. Be aware of this balance and don't hesitate to make adjustments to maintain the balance that keeps you happy and healthy.