Chugiak Culinary ProStart Spirit of Tomorrow Student Nominee

The Chugiak High School ProStart Catering Students have demonstrated exceptional leadership, professionalism, and dedication in strengthening relationships between their school and key business and community partners. Through their outstanding work in catering high-profile events and engaging with industry professionals, these students have elevated the visibility and impact of their school’s culinary program.

Their leadership was on full display at events such as the Ford NGL Designation Ceremony, where they managed the catering from start to finish, showcasing their ability to plan, execute, and deliver high-quality service. They also played a key role in the School Business Partnership Board Meeting, where they provided meals for influential business and education leaders, reinforcing their role as ambassadors for the program.

Beyond catering events, the students have built sustained partnerships that provide valuable hands-on learning experiences. With US Foods, nine students participated in a Culinary Bootcamp, working alongside industry professionals to refine their skills. They will also attend the US Foods Show, where they will collaborate with Food Fanatic Chefs from across the country—an incredible opportunity to expand their knowledge and explore career pathways.

Their contributions go beyond their school, as they actively support organizations like the Eagle River Lions Club and the Anchorage Chamber of Commerce, assisting with fundraisers and community events. By catering appreciation receptions, serving at events, and engaging with local businesses, these students consistently demonstrate the real-world impact of career and technical education.

Through their hard work and dedication, the Chugiak High School ProStart Catering Students have not only strengthened their culinary program but have also created lasting community connections. Their professionalism, initiative, and passion for the industry make them a well-deserving nominee for the Spirit of Tomorrow Award!

Husky Howl Podcast Crew Spirit of Tomorrow Student Nominee

Born in the fall of 2024, The Husky Howl is a student-led podcast covering all things middle school—from school events and student interviews to fun stories and traditions. Under the guidance of school librarian Kerri Geppert, students developed skills in content creation, scriptwriting, and audio production, launching their first episode on November 13, 2024.

Since then, The Husky Howl has strengthened the school community, providing a creative space where students' voices are heard. The crew plans, writes, and produces each episode with input from their peers and staff, ensuring relevant and engaging content. Shared in the school newsletter, the podcast has become a key tool in connecting students, parents, and educators.

Beyond production, students have grown in confidence, mastering the art of interviews and public speaking. A media professional even praised their work, saying, “I would not have guessed this was a group of middle school students. Their poise on air was outstanding.”

More than just a podcast, The Husky Howl is a platform for student expression, training the next generation of storytellers while fostering a strong sense of community. Way to go, Husky Howl crew!

🎖️ Kelsey Barrett – Spirit of Tomorrow Student Nominee! 🎉

Kelsey Barrett, an AFJROTC cadet at Eagle River High School, is a standout leader, mentor, and community servant. With over 500 hours of personal service and leadership that has driven cadets to contribute 3,000+ hours, she has made a lasting impact. As Deputy Commander, she has guided younger cadets and fostered a welcoming environment. Her dedication to service includes leading donation drives for the Salvation Army and Veterans Affairs, collecting thousands of essential items for those in need.

Kelsey’s leadership extends to securing funding for her State Champion Color Guard Team, ensuring they could represent Alaska at Nationals. She also played a key role in earning ERHS the Purple Star designation, supporting military-connected students. Her achievements include being named "Top Cadet" for three years, ranking in the top 2% of 90,000 cadets nationwide, and earning four National AFJROTC awards. A Varsity Team Captain and 3.8 GPA student, she is also working toward her Eagle Scout Award.

Kelsey Barrett is more than just a student—she is a leader, a mentor, and an inspiration to her peers. Her ability to balance academics, athletics, service, and leadership sets her apart as a role model at ERHS and in the Anchorage community. Her unwavering dedication to excellence, service, and respect embodies the core values of Eagle River High School, making her a well-deserving nominee for the Spirit of Tomorrow Award. 

Celebrating Spirit of Tomorrow Nominee: Lisa Johnson! 🎉

Lisa Johnson’s dedication to school-business partnerships has brought invaluable resources to Wonder Park Elementary, benefiting both students and staff. She established a key partnership with Subway, providing meals for high-attendance classes, Family Night, and staff events. Her efforts in engaging community volunteers have also created meaningful support systems for students, including reading mentors and academic encouragement.

Beyond partnerships, Lisa is a pillar of the Wonder Park community—serving on the Sunshine Committee, mentoring new educators as a Building Induction Liaison, and leading as the School Business Partnership Coordinator. Her leadership, passion, and unwavering commitment to education make her an outstanding Educator of Tomorrow nominee!

Celebrating Educators of Tomorrow Nominees Beki Toussaint and Cat Walker! 🎉

Beki Toussaint (Alaska Resource Education) and Cat Walker (Dimond High School) have been nominated for the Educators of Tomorrow Award for their outstanding collaboration in bringing hands-on, career-focused learning to Anchorage School District students.

Beki has been a leader in educating students and teachers about Alaska’s natural resources for over a decade. She played a key role in piloting the Natural Resource Management course at Dimond High, connecting students with industry experts and opening doors to future careers.

Cat Walker, Alaska’s 2024 Teacher of the Year, has been instrumental in launching this new pathway, providing students with hands-on experiences and securing grants to extend learning beyond the classroom. Together, they have created an engaging program that is inspiring students, improving academic performance, and preparing them for Alaska’s future workforce.

Congratulations to these dedicated educators for their commitment to student success!

Celebrating Spirit of Tomorrow Nominee: Kaitlyn Williamson! 🎉

Kaitlyn Williamson’s leadership and dedication to career and technical education (CTE) and health science programs have made a lasting impact at Service High School and across the Anchorage School District. As the advisor for Alaska’s largest HOSA chapter and the driving force behind the Biomedical Career Academy (BCA), Kaitlyn has provided students with incredible hands-on learning opportunities, connecting them with healthcare professionals and real-world experiences.

Her commitment extends beyond the classroom—coordinating surgical visits, leading district-wide HOSA collaboration, mentoring students for state and national competitions, and ensuring healthcare education continues to grow. She is a trusted leader among educators and a passionate advocate for student success.

Thank you, Kaitlyn, for inspiring the next generation of healthcare professionals! 👏 

Celebrating AJEATT – Spirit of Tomorrow Business Award Nominee!

The Alaska Joint Electrical Apprenticeship & Training Trust (AJEATT) is a dedicated partner in supporting King Tech High School’s Construction Electricity and Telecommunications programs. Through material donations, classroom support, and advisory board involvement, AJEATT helps prepare students for lifelong careers in the electrical trade.

By visiting classrooms and identifying promising candidates, they provide students with a direct pathway into apprenticeships, ensuring that Alaskans have access to hands-on training and career opportunities. Thank you, AJEATT, for investing in our students and shaping the future workforce!

Celebrating the Alaska World Affairs Council – Spirit of Tomorrow Business Award Nominee!

The Alaska World Affairs Council is an invaluable partner in expanding global perspectives for Romig Middle School students. By hosting distinguished guest speakers, trivia contests, and student-focused events, the Council provides unique opportunities for students to engage with international experts on critical global issues.

Thanks to generous sponsorships, Romig students attend these events free of charge, with up to 350 students participating. The Council also supports educators, recently sponsoring a teacher’s professional development trip to the UAE, further enriching classroom discussions on world affairs.

Through this partnership, Romig students have the rare opportunity to compete in the prestigious Academic WorldQuest Trivia contest, gaining skills in diplomacy and global analysis. Thank you, Alaska World Affairs Council, for fostering the globally minded citizens of tomorrow!

Celebrating Associated General Contractors (AGC) – Spirit of Tomorrow Business Award Nominee

We are proud to recognize the Associated General Contractors (AGC) of Alaska for their outstanding commitment to workforce development and education! Through their new partnership with Bartlett High School, AGC has brought the construction industry to life for our students, inspiring them to explore careers in the field.

This year, AGC members engaged with our entire freshman class, sharing insights into career pathways, professional growth, and industry training. Their willingness to adapt to our school schedule and ensure every student had the opportunity to learn from them speaks volumes about their dedication.

Our students were so inspired that they helped write thank-you cards and are now nominating AGC for this well-deserved award. We look forward to growing this partnership and continuing to build bright futures together!

👏 Thank you, AGC of Alaska, for investing in our students and the future workforce!

Celebrating Neighbors Windows & Doors – Spirit of Tomorrow Business Award Nominee!

Steve Stich and Neighbors Windows & Doors are dedicated to preparing students for success in the construction industry. By visiting classrooms and leading hands-on workshops on window and door installation, they provide students with real-world technical skills essential for their careers.

Beyond the classroom, Neighbors has hired graduates, including one who has risen to a leadership role overseeing an installation crew. Their commitment to mentoring and employing students makes a lasting impact on workforce development. Thank you, Neighbors Windows & Doors, for building a strong future for our students!

Celebrating Providence Alaska Laarni Power & Jamie Smith – Spirit of Tomorrow Business Award Nominee!

Providence with Jamie Smith and Laarni Power have been essential partners in supporting the Biomedical Career Academy (BCA) and HOSA – Future Health Professionals at Service High School. Through guest speaker engagements, job-shadowing, mentorships, and field trips, students gain firsthand exposure to careers in nursing, surgery, emergency medicine, and more.

Providence also sponsors districtwide HOSA events, helping students develop leadership and professional skills while fostering a pipeline of future healthcare professionals. Many students continue their education in medical fields, with some returning to work at Providence.

Thank you, Providence Alaska, Laarni Power and Jamie Smith, for your commitment to shaping the next generation of healthcare professionals!

Celebrating Cadence General Contractors – Spirit of Tomorrow Business Award Nominee!

Cadence General Contractors, along with Kendall Wilson and Meg McKay, play a vital role in preparing King Tech High School students for successful careers in the construction industry. Through specialized training, paid internships, and student employment opportunities, they help students transition from the classroom to hands-on work experiences.

By providing real-world learning opportunities, Cadence General Contractors not only supports student growth but also strengthens the local workforce and economy. Their commitment ensures that students gain valuable skills while businesses connect with future talent. Thank you for investing in the next generation of skilled professionals!

#SpiritOfTomorrow #CareerReady #StudentSuccess #WorkforceDevelopment

Celebrating Carlile Transportation – Spirit of Tomorrow Business Award Nominee!

Thanks to Cameron Coursey and Carlile Transportation, students interested in becoming Diesel Technicians have an incredible opportunity to gain hands-on experience through a paid internship program. By learning from master mechanics, students develop the skills needed to launch successful careers while still in high school.

This partnership not only supports student success but also helps Carlile train and hire skilled technicians before they graduate, strengthening the local workforce. Thank you, Carlile Transportation, for investing in the next generation of diesel tech professionals!

Celebrating Lithia – Spirit of Tomorrow Business Award Nominee!

Lithia has created an incredible pathway for King Tech High School Automotive Tech students to gain paid internships, allowing them to earn a paycheck and school credit while gaining hands-on experience. This partnership not only helps students launch their careers but also allows Lithia to train and grow their next generation of skilled technicians.

By working together, Lithia and King Tech are shaping the future of the automotive industry, one student at a time. Thank you, Lithia, for investing in student success!

Celebrating Papa Murphy’s Pizza – Spirit of Tomorrow Business Award Nominee!

Clark Middle School is proud to recognize Papa Murphy’s and owner Krista Scott for their generous support of our PBIS initiatives! Through their donation of numerous large pizzas and discounted rates for school events, they have helped create meaningful rewards and incentives for our students.

Thanks to this partnership, students have enjoyed pizza as a Positive Behavioral Interventions & Supports (PBIS) reward, while profits from school event sales have gone back into supporting student programs. Principal Bennetta Orchitt and the Clark community deeply appreciate Papa Murphy’s commitment to student success.

Clark Middle School continues to promote Papa Murphy’s at fundraisers and events, encouraging our community to support a business that gives back!

Celebrating Pizza Man – Spirit of Tomorrow Aware Nominee!

Eagle River High School is proud to recognize Pizza Man and Keith Grandberry for their incredible partnership and support! Since 2022, Keith and his team have enriched our Culinary & Hospitality program by leading cooking labs, mentoring students on interview prep, and even serving ice cream to Freshmen Academy students.

Beyond the classroom, Pizza Man provides job opportunities for students, supports Chugiak-Eagle River drama productions, and even hosted a summer externship for a culinary teacher—bringing real-world experience back to the classroom.

More than just a restaurant, Pizza Man is a beloved community staple, fostering inclusivity and connection. We are so grateful for their generosity and commitment to student success!

Celebrating Staff Sergeant Austin Cunningham – Spirit of Tomorrow Business Award Nominee!

For the past two years, Staff Sergeant Austin Cunningham, a U.S. Army recruiter, has been an invaluable partner to Service High School’s Biomedical Career Academy (BCA). His dedication to educating students about military medical careers includes attending school events, coordinating guest speakers, and securing financial support for the program.

Sergeant Cunningham is currently working to bring a medical truck or helicopter from JBER for a hands-on student experience, further connecting classroom learning to real-world applications. His efforts help students explore military healthcare careers, understand training opportunities, and see the impact of military medicine on both national defense and public health.

Through this partnership, BCA encourages students to consider military medical careers, offering a platform for Army professionals to share their experiences. Thank you, Staff Sergeant Cunningham, for your commitment to student success and career readiness!

Celebrating UAA College of Arts and Sciences – Spirit of Tomorrow Award Nomination

UAA professors play a vital role in shaping the next generation by partnering with ASD staff to enhance curriculum, set instructional goals, and develop meaningful assessments. Their dedication extends beyond the classroom, with professors regularly visiting South CLP to guest lecture, lead seminar-style discussions, and mentor students on advanced academic projects.

Through this partnership, students engage in transformative experiences such as the Philosophy Bowl and National History Day, where their projects—often highlighting Alaska’s rich history and culture—have earned state and national recognition. Additionally, students complete community service and capstone projects aimed at improving life in Anchorage, fostering civic engagement and problem-solving skills.

By bridging the gap between high school and college, UAA professors help students gain confidence in higher education, earn college credits, and see the value of continuing their education locally. Their work not only strengthens academic success but also builds a stronger, more connected Anchorage community.

Celebrating Attendance Cohort Partners – Spirit of Tomorrow Nominee!

Chronic absenteeism is a nationwide issue, with Alaska experiencing some of the highest rates. The Attendance Cohort Partners have made a significant impact by fostering a culture of belonging and engagement in Anchorage schools. Each month, they celebrate a different school within a cohort of ten, providing coffee, lunch, and positive interactions with college athletes to encourage student attendance and staff morale.

These efforts have had a lasting effect, with students, families, and staff continuing to feel the impact long after each celebration. Principals have shared that this initiative has helped strengthen school communities and increase understanding of the role that families, businesses, and staff play in supporting student success.

To recognize the dedication of these partners, the cohort team is creating a thank-you video and adding a business partner recognition section to the federal programs website. Their commitment to showing up for students exemplifies the true spirit of community collaboration and the Spirit of Tomorrow.

Dena'ina Convention Center – Spirit of Tomorrow Award Nomination

The Dena'ina Convention Center played a critical role in the success of the first annual Career Expo, providing an ideal space for students to explore future career paths. With Jennifer’s leadership and unwavering support, the event became a transformative experience for freshman students, connecting them with industry professionals and real-world opportunities.

Her dedication and problem-solving skills ensured a seamless event, offering guidance, practical solutions, and key insights that contributed to its success. By hosting this event, the Dena'ina Convention Center strengthened local partnerships between schools, businesses, and organizations, fostering a collaborative environment focused on workforce development.

As we plan for this year’s Career Expo, we look forward to continuing this impactful partnership at the Dena'ina Center, ensuring even greater opportunities and exposure for Anchorage’s future workforce.

Jill Fisk & Hilcorp – Spirit of Tomorrow Award Nomination

Jill Fisk has been an incredible partner for the ASD Gifted Mentorship Program, going above and beyond to provide real-world opportunities for students. Through her work with Hilcorp, Jill has matched students with mentors, attended student presentations, and organized field trips and shadowing experiences that have given students firsthand exposure to careers in engineering, biology, wildlife science, and petroleum fields.

Her commitment extends beyond mentorship placements—Jill secured funding to support all ASD Gifted Mentorship students, covering costs for UAA parking passes, Juneau mentorship trips, and other valuable learning experiences. She has also ensured Hilcorp's sponsorship of the end-of-year mentorship reception, celebrating the achievements of both students and mentors.

Students mentored at Hilcorp receive hands-on training, professional workspaces, and real-life projects, equipping them with the skills and confidence to pursue internships and careers beyond high school. One former mentee has even come full circle—once a high school mentorship student, she is now a Hilcorp engineer and mentor herself!

Jill’s leadership and generosity continue to shape the future of Alaska’s workforce, ensuring students are prepared, connected, and inspired for success.

Municipality of Anchorage – Spirit of Tomorrow Award Nomination

The Municipality of Anchorage played a critical role in the success of the first Annual Career Expo for freshmen, providing event space at the Dena'ina Center, assisting with street closures for safe transportation, and helping organize exhibitors such as police, fire, and AWWU.

Their support ensured that over 100 Alaska businesses could connect with students, offering hands-on experiences and career insights. The event highlighted diverse career pathways, from degree-required professions to vocational and on-the-job training opportunities, helping students explore their future in Alaska’s workforce.

By investing in youth career exploration, the Municipality of Anchorage is empowering the next generation and strengthening our local economy.

Celebrating UAA Civil Engineering Advisory Council – Spirit of Tomorrow Award Nomination

The Civil Engineering Advisory Council has played a vital role in making civil engineering exciting and accessible to Anchorage students. By engaging with West, Dimond, and King Tech High Schools, members have provided hands-on learning experiences, engineering challenges, and career insights, helping students explore the diverse opportunities within the field.

Through guest lectures, classroom collaborations, and mentorship, the council has expanded students' awareness of engineering careers in Alaska, leading to internship and job offers from local firms. Their dedication has directly influenced the launch of West High’s Civil Engineering and Architecture course in Fall 2025, with plans for continued collaboration to provide real-world learning experiences and strengthen the student pipeline into UA’s Engineering programs.

University of Alaska Anchorage – Spirit of Tomorrow Award Nomination

The University of Alaska Anchorage (UAA) has been instrumental in shaping the Academies of Anchorage, serving as a foundational partner in the program’s vision and design. By hosting Community Convenings and coordinating customized university visits for freshmen across Anchorage’s eight comprehensive high schools, UAA has empowered students to explore future career paths and post-secondary opportunities.

Thanks to Molly Gray’s leadership, these visits go beyond campus tours—they inspire students, boost confidence, and help them make informed decisions about their education and careers. Research shows that early college exposure increases enrollment and fosters a sense of belonging, and UAA’s commitment to engaging with local students is ensuring Anchorage’s future workforce stays connected and prepared.

Through strategic recruitment efforts and program development, UAA is actively shaping the next generation of Alaska’s leaders and professionals.