Lani Strong Hotch, a Klukwan native, has dedicated her life to preserving her Tlingit weaving heritage and serving her community. She is deeply committed to upholding the rich tradition of Tlingit weaving, a legacy spanning five generations in her family. Her remarkable work has graced museums and international art exhibitions, earning her several prestigious awards, including the Alaska Governor's Award for the Arts.

Yet, Lani's legacy extends well beyond her artistic accomplishments. She played a pivotal role in establishing the Jilkaat Kwaan Heritage Center (JKHC), leading grassroots fundraising efforts, contributing to grant writing, and participating in exhibit planning and design, while also serving as the construction manager. Her four-year tenure as the Executive Director of JKHC exemplified her unwavering dedication to the center's mission and the broader community.

Now in retirement, Lani primarily focuses on her artwork while reflecting on the profound impact she has had on preserving Tlingit heritage through her pivotal role in the creation and growth of JKHC.

Mario Benassi's lifelong passion for birds of prey began when he acquired his first bird, a redtail hawk, at the age of 13. As a seasoned falconer and recognized wildlife expert, Mario's expertise in avian matters is well-established. What sets him apart is his unique blend of humor and a straightforward approach, making complex subjects accessible to all. Besides his avian interests, Mario is also a well-known filmmaker, bringing his deep understanding of nature and wildlife to the screen. His charismatic personality and extensive knowledge make him a captivating presence in the world of birds and filmmaking.

Stacie Evans is the Science Director at Takshanuk Watershed Council. She landed her very first job at the age of 13, studying wildlife alongside students and professors from UC Berkeley. Since then, she has studied and observed wildlife all over the west, including the most remote areas of Alaska. After documenting the decline of numerous species, she decided to take a more proactive approach and pursued a career in conservation where she lives in the Chilkat Valley. She believes that the ecosystems of the Chilkat Valley are remarkable and will become increasingly valuable as habitat is degraded elsewhere.