The 2025 Tanana Chiefs Conference (TCC) Annual Convention and Full Board of Directors Meeting was held March 10–13 in Fairbanks, bringing together Tribal leaders, delegates, and community members from across the region to address pressing issues, hear updates from leadership, pass resolutions, and elect key Executive Board members.
This year’s theme, “Guided by Culture, Focused on Tomorrow,” underscored the organization’s commitment to strengthening services and opportunities for Tribal members while remaining rooted in Alaska Native culture, values, and traditions.
During his address to the Full Board of Directors, Chief Brian Ridley emphasized that TCC’s cultural foundation is a source of strength and direction during challenging times. He acknowledged growing concerns over potential federal and Medicaid funding cuts and their possible impact on TCC services. Chief Ridley stressed the importance of preparing now to safeguard essential services.
“We don’t know how long these funding cuts will last or how deep their impacts will be. This means we can’t afford to wait and see—we have to take a proactive approach now,” Ridley said. “Our commitment is clear: We will navigate these challenges together, with transparency, resilience, and the determination to protect the services our communities rely on.”
Delegates expressed similar concerns throughout the convention, particularly around the sustainability of healthcare, social services, and other critical programs that rely heavily on federal and Medicaid funding.
Three Executive Board members were re-elected to serve three-year terms: Sharon Hildebrand, Vice-President, Chief Lori Baker, Yukon Tanana Representative and Chief Nancy James, Yukon Flats Representative.
A major highlight of the event was the keynote address by Taa’ąįį Ch’igiiontà’, joined by his daughters Na’ni’eezh and Ch’eelil, and First Traditional Chief Trimble Gilbert. Delivered in Dinjii Zhuh K’yàa (the Gwich’in language) and translated into English, their speech emphasized the importance of language revitalization and intergenerational knowledge.
Throughout the week, attendees participated in panels focused on regional priorities, including Prevention and Healthy Lifestyles, Missing and Murdered Indigenous People, Tribal Land Stewardship, Building Our Future – Housing Opportunities and an Addressing Violence Against Youth – led by TCC’s Emerging Leaders.
Each session provided valuable insight into ongoing challenges and highlighted innovative, community-driven approaches to addressing them.
The 2025 Convention concluded with the passage of resolutions to guide TCC’s priorities in the coming year, reinforcing the organization’s focus on protecting Tribal sovereignty, enhancing wellness, and building a strong foundation for future generations.
