CARMELL ENGEBRETSON | 38

Director Of Communications

Bristol Bay Native Corporation

Hometown/Current City: Anchorage

Education: Master of Business Administration, APU; Bachelor of Arts in marketing, Eastern Washington University; graduate of the Alaska Native Executive Leadership Program, APU

Community Work: Board member for Choggiung Limited; Volunteer and board member for the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP) Alaska Chapter

Family: My husband Justin and I have two children: Halle (10) and Evan (8). I am the daughter of Wanda and the late Harvey Shade Jr., and the granddaughter of Aurora and the late Morris George, the late Jack and Nannie Jordan, and the late Harvey Shade Sr. I have three brothers: Carvell, Casey and Chad.

What is your favorite place in Alaska and why?: Bristol Bay, of course! But more specifically, Clarks Point and Dillingham, where my family comes from and where I spent many summers growing up. When I'm fortunate enough to visit, so many cherished memories come flooding back.

Name the person you respect and why: My dad. He passed away unexpectedly when I was 27 - before many big changes in my life would happen. But, through the values he instilled in me, the support he gave me and the amazing example he set, my dad continues to have an influence on the decisions I make and paths I follow.

What is your favorite pastime or hobby away from work?: I enjoy beading and crafting.

What was your first job?: I got my first official job, when I was 14, at the O'Malley Ice Rink. I worked in the concession stand, the front office and the hockey shop through my senior year of high school.

What has been your most rewarding community service?: My work with AFSP Alaska has been the most meaningful community service for me. Alaska and the Alaska Native community are severely impacted by suicide, with some of the highest rates in the nation. I lost my brother Casey to suicide in 2016, and the work I do for the chapter is done in his memory.

In your professional life, what has been a project or achievement you have found to be the most fulfilling?: I'll start by saying that I really love all the creative and meaningful work I get to do at BBNC. But, I grew up in a hockey family - everyone but my mom played, and our lives revolved around the rink. So, working on BBNC's partnership with the Seattle Kraken and Climate Pledge Arena has been such an amazing experience for me. Based on your own experiences, what advice would you give on maintaining a good work-life balance?: I may not be the best person to ask, but I would say to be present where you are, don't feel guilty about taking time for yourself and ask for help when you need it.