Dear Editor: Sitka Native Education Program fifth- through 12th-grade students in the G̱ájaa Héen Dance group attended Celebration 2026 to perform for first time in 12 years.
None of this would have been possible without the incredible support of our chaperones and staff who gave their time and energy to get students to Juneau safely: Jenna Littlefield, Claire O'Halloran Hill, Vanessa Bradley, Alex Johnson-Rice, Mike Miller, Izzy Jackson and Ben Kinzer.
We are also deeply grateful to our generous community sponsors: Shee Atiká Inc., Hames Corporation, Sitka Tribe of Alaska Tribal Council, SEARHC, Sitka Elks Lodge, Advanced Electric Signs, Sitka Emblem Club, Alaska Managers Association, former Rep. Mary Peltola, Rep. Rebecca Himshoot, Rob Allen and Robin Sherman. Their belief in our students reflects a profound community commitment to keeping Southeast Alaska Native culture alive and thriving for generations to come.
It wouldn’t be possible without the knowledge and support of our elders and teachers who have led SNEP for 50 years before us and our elder consultant Dr. Kéet Tláa Anne Johnson.
Gunalchéesh to all of our generous supporters, to our families of SNEP students, and the greater Sitka community for supporting our fundraising efforts or attending performances. We are so proud of our students.
Sheridan Bacon
Sitka Native Education
Department Director,
Sitka Tribe of Alaska
