Inaugural cohort of LIFE Scholars announced

Oct. 16, 2025

The ҹɫ¸£Àû College of Indigenous Studies has selected the inaugural cohort of the Leaders in Indigenous Food and Energy Scholars Program. This prestigious program is designed to support and cultivate emerging and current leaders in Alaska's Indigenous food and energy systems.

The LIFE Scholars Program is a unique initiative that integrates Alaska Native languages and Ways of Knowing with contemporary studies in food, agriculture, and natural resource sciences. The program's mission is to empower and connect place-based Indigenous Scholars to steward Alaska's lands and waters for generations to come. An Indigenous Scholar is an expert within their own knowledge systems, a steward of the land and water, a hunter, herder, forager, or gardener, and an advocate for sustainable energy, Tribal governance, or community-based projects.

The selected scholars will receive full tuition for two required three-credit university courses, a stipend of $1,500 per semester, and paid travel and lodging for two in-person program retreats. The program will provide mentorship and networking opportunities, connecting the scholars with established leaders and experts in their fields. The cohort will also attend the Fall 2025 Tribal Governance Symposium in Fairbanks and a retreat in the spring of 2026.

The LIFE Scholars Program is supported by the USDA National Institute of Food and Agriculture Alaska Native-Serving and Native Hawaiian-Serving Institutions Education Competitive Grants Program and is a part of the Drumbeats Alaska Consortium.

"We are thrilled to welcome our first cohort of LIFE Scholars," said Carrie Stevens, professor and vice chair of the Department of Tribal Governance at the UAF College of Indigenous Studies. "These scholars represent the future of Indigenous leadership in food and energy sovereignty. Their dedication and deep-rooted knowledge are essential for building a more sustainable and resilient future for Alaska."

The members of the inaugural LIFE Scholars cohort are:

  • Matthew Anderstrom; Yakutat Tlingit Tribe
  • Crystal Dushkin; Native Village of Atka
  • Kimberly Frey; Native Village of Kotzebue
  • Eliza Jimmie; Northway Village Council
  • Allison Johnson; Nome Eskimo Community
  • Kristen Maxie; Native Village of Napaskiak
  • Moxie Moxie; New Stuyahok Tribe
  • Zoe Okleasik; Nome Eskimo Community
  • Ashley Powe; Agdaagux Tribe of King Cove
  • Bertha Prince; Algaaciq Tribe/Calista Corporation
  • Avril Soonagrook; Native Village of Savoonga
  • Adrianne Adivigun Takak; Native Village of Shaktoolik
  • Jazmyn Vent; Huslia Tribal Council

"Being selected as a LIFE Scholar is an incredible honor," said Jazmyn Vent. "I am excited to learn from my peers and mentors, and to bring back knowledge and new ideas to my community. This program will help us strengthen our traditional food systems and build a more secure future."

Read the LIFE Scholars’ bios and learn more about the inaugural cohort