Biography

As a lifelong Alaskan, Jonella/Ququngaq (Yupik) recognizes and shares an appreciation for the complex challenges we face as Alaskans and is committed to using her experience and knowledge to help others meet the needs of their communities. Jonella was born and raised in Nome with strong family ties to Savoonga on St. Lawrence Island. She and her children are tribal citizens of the Native Village of Savoonga. Her love of Yupik art, culture, and ideology led her to the University of Alaska Fairbanks where she earned her Bachelor of Arts in Alaska Native and Rural Development with an emphasis in cultural documentation and community planning and to Harvard University where she earned her Master in Liberal Arts in museum studies. She is committed to working with leadership on issues and impacts related to climate and social justice, sustainable communities, and cultural expression.