Degree: Associate of Applied Science in Nursing / Southwestern Oregon Commuinity College “My gratitude for the help Copper Mountain Foundation can hardly be put into words. Not only have you guys helped me pay for school, but you’ve helped me pay my bills, my mortgage payment, and put food on the table for my family. Thank you doesn’t seem adequate for the generous help you guys have given me. I’ve come a long way, but I have a long way to go. Thank you Copper Mountain Foundation for helping me get this far.”

Keith is currently working in an urgent care clinic and hoping to transition into hospice nursing. Keith will continue to pursue Nursing Master’s Degree in the fall and hopes to work as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner.

Parents: Timothy Avey and Marian Hildebrandt
Grandparents: John Sam Junior Totemoff and Candy Avey
Graduation Date: June 19, 2020
Degree: Associates in Nursing/South Puget Sound Community College

“The Copper Mountain Foundation is one of the reasons I was able to accomplish my goals. Without their support it would have been difficult. I am proud to be a part of this wonderful Corporation who helps us succeed in education. I hope many generations continue to utilize what this foundation has to offer.”

Parents: Renae Totemoff and Edward Vlasoff
Grandparents: Robert Vlasoff Sr. and Linda Gregorieff (paternal)
Steve and Betty Totemoff (maternal)

In May, Marvin will graduate high school from the Tatitlek Community School. The favorite part of his high school experience was being able to stay close to home. He was also able to participate in flight school, and marine navigation classes through Voyage to Excellence, a program managed by the Chugach School District. Marvin is excited to work with the Copper Mountain Foundation to explore his educational endeavors. His plans for the future include joining the union, and working for TCC in the near future.

“A huge thank you to the Copper Mountain Foundation, for supporting my educational field trips and supporting Voyage to Excellence!”

Parents: Jamie Brink and Kenneth Brink Jr.
Grandparents: Chris and Sharon Boskofsky (maternal)

Ashley Brink is currently pursuing a Business Management Degree from the University of Alaska, Anchorage and is on track to graduate in May 2022. Upon graduation she plans to continue working and building her career in NC.

Ashley’s favorite part of her college experience is taking classes and learning new things. Ashley’s advice for incoming students, “Try your best and if you come across any obstacles, keep going.”

Natisa Daria Kompkoff Matte, daughter of Daria and Parker Mack and granddaughter of Anna Kompkoff Matte and Michael Matte, is pursuing her goal of becoming a registered nurse.

Currently obtaining her undergraduate associate degree at South Seattle College, Natisa plans to transfer to the University of Washington or Gonzaga University to obtain her RN credentials. “Copper Mountain Foundation has financially supported my education from the beginning of my first year attending college. Without their help I wouldn’t be able to afford an education and pursue my dream career,” says Natisa. 

Eventually Natisa plans to use her to degree in the Native community to provide “assistance and care back to my people”. She chose to become a nurse because of her passion for helping others and is excited by the continued medical field advances in knowledge and technology.

Parents: Dr. Jolene Campbell and Eugene Juliussen Jr.
Grandmother: Late Betsy Nicols Burke

Jessica is a scholarship recipient of CMF who is currently pursuing a degree in Business Administration with an emphasis in Non-Profit Organizations. As of April 2022, Jessica had graduated from Alaska Pacific University with an Associates Degree in Business Administration.

Once Jessica graduates, her goal is to begin working towards a law degree specializing in Indigenous Peoples Law and Tribal Sovereignty. CMF has helped Jessica pursue her degree with financial assistance as well as knowledge that she will be able to use her education to give back to our people to ensure we continue prospering for years to come. “Trust the journey”.

Parents: Doug and Tracy Marleau

Degree: Kinesiology at Oregon State University

Malina is a scholarship recipient of CMF. Once Malina graduates, her goal is to work in the healthcare field where she can build relationships with patients and customers.

CMF has helped Malina pursue her degree by not only alleviating part of the financial burden of college but also by keeping her motivated in her studies. “It’s about the journey in life not the destination.”