Huna Totem Taps Bell for Strategic Initiatives, Tourism Advisory Board
Photo Credit: Huna Totem Corporation
Huna Totem hired Susan Bell as Vice President of Strategic Initiatives, responsible for overseeing and executing high impact projects. The former commissioner of the Alaska Department of Commerce, Community, and Economic Development is also named to Huna Totem’s new Tourism Advisory Board.
In her Vice President role, Bell will help oversee projects such as Aak’w Landing in Juneau and the Alaska Native Tourism Network, Huna Totem’s initiative to inspire and create partnerships among Alaska Native communities statewide.
Originally from Nome, Bell now lives in Juneau. She has more than two decades of experience in tour operations and destination marketing. She previously served as president of McKinley Research Group and as vice president of Goldbelt, Inc., and in between she served in the administration of former Governor Sean Parnell. Most recently, Bell has been assisting the University of Alaska President in launching a new Arctic Leadership Initiative.
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December 2024
“I’ve been a long-time fan and supporter of Susan and her work,” says Huna Totem President and CEO Russell Dick. “Her experience, understanding of the tourism industry, and passion for Alaska and its people make her a natural fit. I couldn’t be happier to welcome her to our thriving team and business.”
Three other members join Bell on the new Tourism Advisory Board. Charlie Ball is a former president of Holland America/Princess Alaska. Howard Sherman was most recently president and CEO of Oceania Cruises and formerly vice president of onboard revenue and destination services at Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings. And Craig Milan has experience with leadership roles at Royal Caribbean Group, Virgin Voyages, Continental Airlines, Eastern Airlines, and Brightline, where he was part of the start-up team at the country’s first privately owned railroad.
The advisory board will help guide tourism strategy and initiatives for Hoonah’s village corporation and help strengthen its leadership position in the industry.
“We are honored to have the support and insights of these respected and accomplished industry leaders,” says Dick. “I’m so proud of the work we do at Huna Totem Corporation to not only enrich the lives of our shareholders but also deliver incredible and authentic Alaska experiences to our visitors.”
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