AWRTA HIRES NEW EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

AWRTA hired Executive Director Hanna Waterstrat in October 2009.  Hanna moved to Alaska in 2004 to pursue adventure and a career in conservation and environmental science.  She has worked in the government, non-profit, and private sectors and has been actively involved as a volunteer in the Alaska conservation community for several years. 

Hanna earned her MBA in Sustainable Business from Bainbridge Graduate Institute (BGI) in June of 2009.  During her time as a student at BGI, Hanna worked on projects including an eco-label initiative for outdoor industry companies through the Outdoor Industry Association’s Eco-working Group.  Hanna also worked as part of a team to develop a business plan for emerging indie ski brand Crown Skis, based in Vancouver B.C. 

Before moving to Alaska, Hanna worked as a seasonal plant ecologist and wildland firefighter for the National Park Service in Washington, Oregon, and Northern California.  She has a B.S. in Forest Resources from the University of Washington, and has also worked as a river guide and environmental educator. 

Hanna enjoys skiing, hiking, biking and traveling throughout Alaska and beyond.  She’s a strong supporter of AWRTA’s mission and vision and is excited to put her experience and enthusiasm to work for promoting sustainable tourism in her adopted home state.