In the Iñupiaq culture the word Ivalu holds a special meaning. It means thread, or bind, and it comes from the sinew of our Native caribou. For thousands of years, it has been vital to the survival of our people – allowing our umiaq (skin boat) to float and our clothes to be sewn. Today, Ivalu is just as important. It’s the thread that serves our traditions and represents the bond that ties our people together. The Arctic Education Foundation honors Ivalu through its gala to support our young people, helping them achieve success through education.
The Arctic Education Foundation is thrilled to announce its 10th annual Ivalu Gala was held at the Dena’ina Civic and Convention Center in Anchorage on Saturday, February 28, 2026.
This year honors ten years of collective effort and generosity, supporting Iñupiaq students in their pursuit of higher education and meaningful careers. The gala’s northern lights theme, “Illuminating Pathways for Iñupiat Scholars,” celebrates AEF’s ongoing commitment to guiding and empowering students.
The evening features a gourmet dinner, live entertainment, and silent and live auction events. The evening was guided by emcees Bekah Villalon and Hokulani Panigeo who took us through a thrilling fashion show featuring designs by Inupiaq artists: Dana Hank, Jana Pausauraq Harcharek, Jerica Leavitt, Bobby Brower, and Clara Qaulluq McConnell. Following the main event, we held an exclusive afterparty featuring the local band H3! All proceeds support our scholarship programs, funding North Slope Iñupiat students in their pursuit of higher education and training. Your presence will undoubtedly contribute to the success of this fundraising effort.
During the gala, AEF recognizes two of the Foundation’s devoted ambassadors who year after year continue to show their commitment to helping AEF students succeed. The Umialik Award, which honors an individual or organization that has exhibited leadership and stewardship in the Arctic community, was awarded to Hilcorp Energy. We also welcomed Edna Ahmaogak to the stage to accept the Flossie Hopson Andersen Award in recognition of a her outstanding support of North Slope education.
For any questions, please reach out to the AEF team at ivalugala@asrc.com or (907) 852-9404.
The Arctic Education Foundation would like to say Quyanaqpak to all the artists, volunteers, and contributors who support the gala! AEF’s educational success would not be possible without you!
For more information about the Ivalu Gala, please visit the event website at https://ivalugala.org/.
Guiding the Way for Our Future Generations
Igliġurriñiq Kiŋuniiksraptignun
For more information on how to get involved through volunteering, donating or attending Ivalu Gala please email arcticed@asrc.com or call (907) 852-9404.