Tribal Council

Diane McRae, President

Born in Seward and raised in King Cove, Alaska, Mrs. McRae is of Aleut descent. She is involved with Chugachmiut and Qutekcak’s dance and drum, and elders groups. Mrs. McRae has been active in the Seward community more than 30 years, working for the State of Alaska. She has volunteered her time with Friends of the Seward Community Library, the Seward Senior Center and the Seward Community Resource Team.

Judith Christiansen, Vice President

A lifelong Seward resident, Mrs. Christiansen is of Inupiaq descent. She spends considerable time with the youth in the tribe’s dance and drum group. Mrs. Christiansen recently retired from her paid career but still volunteers on the boards of the Business and Office Technology Advisory Board, the Seward Community Foundation and the Chugach Regional Regional Resources Commission.

Daisy Blatchford

One of the founders of the Qutekcak Native Tribe, Mrs. Blatchford has volunteered for QNT since its inception making her a valuable resource. She serves as a village representative on the North Pacific Rim Housing Authority and is involved in subsistence activities. Her regular participation in local Native gatherings helps build a strong sense of community. Mrs. Blatchford retired from Seward General Hospital after nearly thirty-five years as a nurse.

Esther Ronne

A founder of Qutekcak Native Tribe, Mrs. Ronne has served the Tribe since its formation providing a wealth of historical knowledge. She is Inupiaq and currently represents the Chugach region on the Anchorage Service Unit Native Health Board. Before retiring, Mrs. Ronne served on the boards of Chugachmiut and the Chugach Regional Resource Commission.

Arne Hatch

Mr. Hatch represents Qutekcak on the Chugachmiut Board of Directors. An active member of the Seward community, he has worked with the Seward General Hospital and Seaview Community Services as well as with youth basketball.

Photo Credit: One Shot Photography