WAINWRIGHT, AK — Olgoonik Corporation President and CEO Hugh Patkotak, Sr. presented the Shareholders of the Year with their awards at the 50th Annual Meeting of Shareholders on June 10, 2023. Each year, OC opens up nominations for the Shareholder of the Year awards so anyone can nominate outstanding shareholders for Youth of the Year, Leader of the Year, and Elder of the Year. No nominations for Leader of the Year were received this year. Congratulations to our winners in the other categories! Our Shareholder Employee of the Year candidates are nominated by colleagues and the winner is chosen by our President and CEO.
SHAREHOLDER YOUTH OF THE YEAR: Alva Ahvakana, Jr.
Alva is dedicated to the culture, traditions, and Iñupiaq values guiding our corporation. From spring to fall, he helps both his parents and his grandparents, and often shares his hunting stories with community Elders. He loves to help other, expecting nothing in return. By providing for his family he shows his dedication to the cultural value of taking care of one another. Alva is the son of Alva Ahvakana Sr. and Kitty Ahvakana. He is also the grandson of Paneatak and Sarah Panik and Harris Aguvluk and Eunice Ahvakana. Congratulations, Alva!
SHAREHOLDER ELDER OF THE YEAR: Marlene Okakok
Marlene is an Ilisauri who, while supporting our youth, teaching Iñupiaq language, culture, traditions, and Iñupiaq values, mentored them to get high school diplomas. While doing so, she sat beside them as a student to earn her own, providing the best example that it’s never too late for you to put in the hard work and dedication to achieve your goals. Marlene is the daughter of the late Rossman and Helen Peetook, an active community member, loving mother, aaka, sister, auntie, teacher, graduate and now our 2023 Shareholder Elder of the Year. Congratulations, Marlene!
SHAREHOLDER EMPLOYEE OF THE YEAR: Victoria Rolon
Victoria has been working for Olgoonik for more than 10 years. Her current job title is Senior Human Resources Coordinator. She has become an expert in electronic record entry and supports employees, managers, and departments in onboarding, benefits, and general employment questions and needs. As her position has evolved, she has welcomed new responsibilities and exceeded expectations with each new assignment. OC appreciates her hard work. Congratulations, Victoria!