Yaghali du,

My name is Bernadine Atchison. I am the Chairperson for Kenaitze Indian Tribe. I have served our Tribal Members on the Tribal Council since October 2015. In addition, I sit as the Kenaitze Education Committee Chair, which provides guidance for the K’Beq site in the Cooper Landing area in partnership with Chugach National Forest. Earlier in my career, I was the Cultural Heritage Director for Kenaitze and managed the K’Beq site in cooperation with the Chugach National Forest for three summers. I am a mother of three, and most recently my husband and I adopted four of our grandchildren, which moved the bar of education and outdoor education to the top of our priority.

Prior to being on Council, I worked for Volunteer Services of Carlton County for over six years. With the last three years as the RSVP (Retired and Senior Volunteer Program) Director. I managed over 800 volunteers, along with ensuring grant guidelines were followed through the AmeriCorps Seniors RSVP program.

Outside of work, I love being with family, gardening, crocheting, homeschooling our grandkids, traveling, and having quiet time.