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From all of us at NANA , we wish you a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year !
As we move into 2017 , it is important to reflect on the past year . 2016 was a major milestone for the Alaska Federation of Natives ( AFN ) as the organization celebrated its 50th anniversary . During this year ’ s conference in Fairbanks , keynote speaker Emil Notti spoke about the formation of AFN and the young Alaska Native leaders that selflessly volunteered so much of their time and money for the
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Wayne Westlake , NANA President / CEO , with Selawik Youth Leaders Shaylynn Hingsbergen and Keana Howarth .
betterment of their people . Many of the people that Emil referenced are from our region , and it was inspiring to hear about the great things that have stemmed from our Northwest Arctic home .
It is also the 50th anniversary of the formation of NANA ’ s non-profit predecessor , Northwest Alaska Native Association . In 1966 , a handful of people gathered together to talk about Land Claims in Mary Schaeffer ’ s kitchen in Kotzebue , and what came next is history . In 1972 ,
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after the passing of Alaska Native Claims Settlement Act ( ANCSA ), the Northwest Alaska Native Association was changed into the for-profit Alaska Native Corporation we now call NANA Regional Corporation , Inc . ( NANA ). In 1974 , NANA formed a holding company , NANA Development Corporation ( NDC ), a wholly owned subsidiary .
In early November of this year , The NANA Board of Directors saw the need for a more connected organization , and the board voted to align NANA Development Corporation ' s President position under NANA Regional Corporation ' s President and CEO position . The board ’ s decision was made to create unity , alignment of mission and strategy , and increase accountability of performance . As a result we will communicate better , be more efficient , and improve our performance .
NANA ' s mission is to improve the quality of life for NANA shareholders by maximizing economic growth , protecting and enhancing our lands , and promoting healthy communities with decisions ,
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actions , and behaviors inspired by our Iñupiat Ilitqusiat values consistent with our core principles . The recent board action to consolidate the leadership of the companies will re-align us with this responsibility and guide our decisions moving forward .
I encourage all shareholders to read the 2016 Annual Report that will delivered in early February . We are stronger as a company when shareholders are informed and engaged , and know where the Corporation stands financially . Additionally , to ensure that you are aware of developments in a more timely fashion , details on the first quarter of FY2017 will be distributed in the near future .
As we reflect on the past year , I look forward to connecting with shareholders at the annual meeting to discuss our path forward – the NANA path .
Thank you ,
— Wayne Westlake
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