BENJAMIN MALLOTT | 38

Vice President Of External Affairs

Alaska Federation Of Natives

Hometown: Juneau

Current City: Anchorage

Education: Bachelor of Science in environmental science with a concentration in natural resource policy and pre-law, Oregon State University; Masters in public administration and policy, American University Community Work: I currently serve as the Vice President of External Affairs of the Alaska Federation of Natives (AFN), the largest statewide Native organization that advocates for Native issues and policy priorities. At AFN, I staff the Subsistence Committee and Executive Governance Committee and assist in the development and management of effective working relationships on federal, state and local levels. Prior to working for AFN, I served as a Legislative Assistant for U.S. Senator Lisa Murkowski on federal policy areas that affect Alaska Natives and rural Alaska. In addition to my role with AFN, I serve as Vice Chair of NTVI, an 8(a) subsidiary of Baan O Yeel Kon Corporation, Vice Chair of the Alaska Humanities Forum and on the boards of the Alaska Native Heritage Center and The Nature Conservancy Alaska.

Family: Parents, Byron Mallott and Antoinette Mallott; siblings, BJ Mallott, Meredith Mallott-Stout, Anthony Mallott and Joey Mallott

What is your favorite place in Alaska and why?: At my parent's house in Yakutat: There is nothing like it on a sunny day.

Name the person you respect and why: I wouldn't say one person, but what I respect the most is my family. My parents because they gave me life and raised me to understand and appreciate where I come from, my culture, and taught me the skills and tools to succeed in life. My brothers and sisters, because we will always be there for each other. My aunts and uncles because they helped raise me and continue to do so.

What is your favorite pastime or hobby away from work?: Travel

What was your first job?: Selling tickets at the Mt. Roberts Tramway in Juneau. What has been your most rewarding community service?: Helping to connect and advocate for the cultural, economic and political aspirations of the Alaska Native community.

In your professional life, what has been a project or achievement you have found to be the most fulfilling?: There are a number of achievements, but the most fulfilling is seeing legislation or policy that I have helped draft be implemented. Based on your own experiences, what advice would you give on maintaining a good work-life balance?: I think I may still be on the work side of things in my work-life balance, but I truly believe that one should always make time to be with family and to be home. I make an effort to make sure I get to Juneau, Rampart, and Yakutat often to connect with my family and where my parents come from.

What is your favorite quote?: One quote that has stuck with me comes from an interview with former Alaska Airlines CEO Brad Tilden, "Control what you can control, and don't worry about the rest of it."