ANCHORAGE, AK – Elisha “Bear” Baker, dean of the University of Alaska Anchorage College of Business and Public Policy (CBPP), announced today that Willie Hensley has accepted the position of “Visiting Distinguished Professor of Business and Public Policy” in CBPP.
Hensley, one of the most recognized leaders in Alaska, will work with CBPP throughout the 2011-12 academic year. His primary focus will be to design new curriculum centered on Alaska Native business and corporation management, and to develop cases that address Native business law and policy issues. He will also teach the Alaska Native Business Management course (BA 490A) in the fall and spring semesters.
In addition, Hensley will work with the Institute for Social and Economic Research (ISER) and key university leaders to identify and develop new research opportunities. He will present one public lecture during the academic year, to be announced at a later date.
Hensley was instrumental in the framing of the Alaska Native Claims Settlement Act of 1971 and has provided leadership in both the public and private sectors in numerous organizations including the Alaska Legislature, the Alaska Federation of Natives and First Alaskans Institute. In recent years, he has mentored other indigenous peoples throughout the world.
“CBPP is fortunate to have Hensley join the distinguished team of scholars already in the college,” said Dean Baker. “CBPP is committed to developing and delivering business and public policy courses and programs focused on Alaska Native organizations and business. Hensley’s assistance with sharpening the focus of CBPP offerings, collaborating on developing teaching cases, facilitating communications and exchange with Alaska Native communities, and mentoring students and faculty will have a significant impact on business education for Alaska.”
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Jessica D. Hamlin * Office of University Relations * (907) 786-1288 www.uaa.alaska.edu