Arctic Leadership Lecture Series
Alaska Native Corporations
March 6th, 2025
Join Dan Graham, CEO of Bering Straits Native Corporation, and TJ Presley, Vice President of Government Affairs for the ANCSA Regional Association, for an insightful discussion on leadership within Alaska Native corporations. They will share their personal and professional journeys that led to their current roles, reflect on the unique aspects of leadership in Alaska's Native corporations, and discuss their leadership styles. The speakers will also address the challenges they are currently tackling in their respective fields and offer advice for those interested in pursuing leadership positions within Alaska Native corporations and the broader Arctic region.
About Don Graham
Dan Graham was appointed President and CEO of Bering Straits Native Corporation (BSNC) in 2024 after serving as Interim President and CEO since May 2023. He has been a key leader at BSNC since joining the senior executive team in 2014, playing a significant role in the corporation’s strategic growth and development.
With more than 30 years of experience as a federal government contractor, including over 25 years in leadership roles within Alaska Native corporations, Graham has extensive expertise in corporate strategy, business development, contract capture management, and in-region Alaska operations. He has overseen a large portfolio of contracts spanning all 50 states and international programs, ensuring strong operational performance and long-term success.
Graham holds a Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering from Villanova University. He is a registered Professional Civil Engineer in Alaska and a certified Project Management Professional (PMP), bringing a technical and analytical approach to corporate leadership.
His leadership continues to guide BSNC’s mission of creating economic growth and opportunities while strengthening the corporation’s position as a premier employer and service provider.
About TJ Presley
TJ Presley serves as Vice President of Government Affairs for ARA, bringing more than a decade of experience in public service and a deep commitment to Alaska policy issues. He joined ARA as Director of Government Affairs in July 2023, following a ten-year career in the Alaska Legislature and extensive experience in state and federal policy.
Presley began his legislative career as an intern through the University of Alaska Anchorage Legislative Internship Program and went on to serve in both chambers of the Alaska Legislature. He held key roles supporting legislative leadership, including aide to Senate Minority Leader Berta Gardner and Speaker of the House Bryce Edgmon. His expertise extends beyond the legislature, having served as an advisor for the Alaska Department of Natural Resources, Division of Oil and Gas, Deputy Director of the Alaska Redistricting Board, and Campaign Manager for Bill Walker’s 2022 gubernatorial campaign. He has also worked as a strategic advisor to the Alaska Federation of Natives Navigator Program and a congressional affairs liaison for the U.S. Department of the Interior, Bureau of Safety and Environmental Enforcement.
Presley holds a bachelor’s degree in political science from the University of Alaska Anchorage and an MBA in finance from Alaska Pacific University.
Now based in Washington, D.C., he leads ARA’s policy efforts, advocating for and educating federal policymakers on issues affecting the 12 Alaska Native regional corporations. His work ensures that Alaska Native interests are represented in national policy discussions, strengthening economic and governance opportunities for Alaska Native communities.
About the Arctic Leadership Lecture Series
The Arctic Leadership Lecture Series offers a unique blend of academic rigor and public engagement. Offered as PS F493/693 Arctic Leadership: Theory and Praxis in the 21st Century, this course invites students and community members alike to explore critical aspects of leadership in the Arctic.
The course is available for undergraduate and graduate students, with both in-person and online options. Undergraduate students can also choose an Honors section, offered for both online and in-person delivery. Community members may attend the lectures for free or enroll as non-degree-seeking students to participate fully in the course.
Lectures are held in the Schaible Auditorium every Thursday from 5:30 PM – 7:00 PM AKST (open to the public). Classroom discussions continue from 7:00 PM – 8:30 PM AKST (students only).
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