Date of Award

2024-12-30

Degree Name

PhD Leadership Studies

Dissertation Committee

Laura Deitrick, PhD, Chair Leslie Boozer, EdD, JD, Member Robert Donmoyer, PhD, Member

Keywords

Alaskan Native, Representation, DEI, Alaskan Native People, Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, Indigenous

Abstract

The nonprofit sector faces a significant issue: the underrepresentation of the communities it aims to serve, including Alaska Native communities. This research investigates the likely causes of this underrepresentation and explores potential solutions. It includes nine qualitative interviews with a majority of Alaskan Native leaders and consultations with other non-Native nonprofit leaders who have extensive experience in Alaska's nonprofit organizations.

This study arose from firsthand experience in an Anchorage, Alaska nonprofit, where the lack of Alaska Native representation in leadership roles within an organization meant to serve the Alaska Native community was evident. The research aimed to understand how well the staff and leadership of Alaskan nonprofits reflected the Alaska Native communities they served and whether increased representation, according to those interviewed, could improve nonprofits' ability to provide essential services to Alaskan Native communities.

This research builds on existing literature about representation, which is related to but distinct from literature on diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI). While DEI literature emphasizes creating inclusive environments in various ways, representation focuses specifically on promoting the visibility and voices of underrepresented groups within organizations. This study addresses the lack of research on the specific representation challenges faced by Alaska Native people in nonprofit organizations, especially in leadership roles. Existing literature often groups Alaska Native people with American Indians, obscuring their unique experiences and needs. This study highlights current challenges and suggests possible solutions and interventions.

The findings of this study include emphasizing the importance of cultural sensitivity and recognizing the unique barriers faced by Alaska Native people. It highlights the need to understand the variations among Alaska Native tribes and regions, and the importance of inclusivity in the ongoing conversation about representation versus Diversity Equity and Inclusion. Additionally, the study underscores the significance of indigenous leadership and current trends in leadership for Alaskan Native people, as well as the importance of tribal sovereignty and its relationship to self-determination for Alaska Native people.

Document Type

Dissertation: Open Access

Department

Leadership Studies

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