The
Robert Aqqaluk Newlin, Sr. Memorial Trust was established in 1989 by the NANA
Regional Corporation, one of the thirteen Native regional corporations created
by the passage of ANCSA in 1971.
The
Robert Aqqaluk Newlin, Sr. Memorial Trust is a non-profit organization which depends
on contributions from foundations, organizations and individuals.
The
Robert Aqqaluk Newlin, Sr. Memorial Trust has been founded in memory of one of
of the greatest leaders of the Inupiat Eskimos. Born and raised in Northwest Alaska,
Robert Newlin dedicated his life to preserving the culture and the land of the
Inupiat. He also worked to build healthy families and restore dignity and hope
to a people battling alcoholism, drug abuse and suicide. Under Robert Newlin's
leadership. Inupiat Ilitqusiat - the Spirit Program - was formed, a program
oriented toward maintaining traditional values in a modern world.
In
honor of Robert Newlin, this trust will benefit the Alaska Natives of the NANA
region by preserving and enhancing the Inupiat culture. This goal is achieved
by providing scholarships to eligible and qualified students who are pursuing
college/university degrees and post-secondary vocational training. It is intended
that these scholarships will both encourage and enable those students to pursue
levels of educational and vocational achievement that they might not otherwise
have sought. The trust will also award grants to individuals and communities seeking
to promote and enhance Inupiaq spirituality and culture.
Robert Aqqaluk
Newlin, Sr. was a gift to his Inupiaq people. Few people have made such an impact
on preserving the culture and values of the Inupiat in modern times.
Robert
was born in Noorvik on February 4, 1924 and grew up in a time of rapid and constant
changes within the Inupiaq community. His traditional culture - a culture
based on ancient values, strong family ties, and an understanding of the land
and its resources - was being challenged by new, Western norms.
Robert's
presence and stature provided guidance and stability to the Inupiat. Throughout
his life, he fought to protect his people's culture and relationship with the
land. Robert worked for the passage of the Alaska Native Claims Settlement
Act, and was selected to be the first chairman of NANA Regional Corporation
, a private corporation owned by the more than 10,500 Inupiat Eskimos of Northwest
Alaska.
It
can be truly said that Robert Aqqaluk Newlin, Sr. walked in both worlds - the
Inupiaq and Western world - with one spirit. He knew that the Inupiat could
not turn back entirely to the ways of his ancestors, but could blend new Western
skills and technologies to preserve the best of both worlds.
Robert's
greatest attributes were his devotion to family and his appreciation for life.
Through his example, accomplishments and strength Robert Aqqaluk Newlin, Sr. inspired
others to bring out the best within themselves and to turn to each other for unity
and support.
