|
Contact: Tom VandenBerg, 907-697-2619 Contact: Mary Beth Moss, 907-945-1220 BARTLETT COVE, ALASKA: Superintendent Philip Hooge announced today that Melissa Senac of Gustavus has been selected for a 2-year term position to assist in planning the 2016 Grand Opening Celebration for the Huna Tribal House as well as cooperatively developing interpretive and operational plans for the facility. Simultaneously, Hoonah Indian Association's (HIA) Tribal Administrator Robert Starbard announced that Darlene See will serve as the Tribe's counterpart in the planning efforts. Ms.See was recently hired as HIA's Cultural Programs Specialist;her position will be partially funded through a Cooperative Agreement with NPS to assist with Tribal House planning efforts. To enhance the cooperative nature of this project, the new Tribal House Coordinator position was filled with two individuals in a unique job-sharing role. "We are pleased that Darlene and Melissa will continue the collaborative efforts of both partners, "Mr. Starbard noted. Superintendent Hooge also spoke to the collaborative nature of the Tribal House project: "This project has been a true partnership since its inception." See brings with her a lifetime of Tlingit cultural knowledge,and experience coordinating cultural gatherings and learning opportunities. She is also known for her skills in native artwork, weaving, and storytelling. See expressed her excitement about working to bring the Tribal House planning to fruition: "A lot of people have put a lot of effort into making this a reality; I'm extremely excited to be a small part of the history of the Tribal House." Senac has worked with the National Park Service (NPS) at Glacier Bay in a multitude of positions ranging from biological technician to training specialist. Last fall, Melissa was honored with the Freeman Tilden Award, the highest NPS honor for interpretation for her role in the Whale #68 Re-articulation Project. The NPS and Hoonah Indian Association (HIA) are cooperatively planning and constructing a 2500 foot Tribal House on the shores of Bartlett Cove. When complete, this facility will serve as a venue for tribal members to reconnect to their spiritual homeland through ceremonies, workshops, camps, and other events. It will also provide park visitors with opportunities to learn about Tlingit history and culture. Construction of the Tribal House is currently underway by P.K. Builders from Ketchikan, AK. |
Last updated: February 3, 2019