A Career of Public Leadership

Dr. Blatchford has served Alaska at nearly every level of governance:

• Mayor of Seward (1999–2003), leading economic diversification, infrastructure development, and disaster preparedness efforts.

• Commissioner in two Alaska gubernatorial administrations, a two-time member of the Governor’s cabinet, overseeing multimillion-dollar departments, statewide economic development, rural justice, fisheries allocations, public safety, and community development.

• Chairman & President/CEO of Chugach Alaska Corporation, where he negotiated historic land settlements and represented Alaska Native interests at state and federal levels, leading and managing a $300 million corporation through transition and high-growth periods.

• Founder and publisher of the state’s largest weekly newspaper chain, Alaska Newspapers, Inc., giving voice to Alaska Native issues and rural communities with thousands of weekly readers.

His tenure across these roles has earned him a reputation as a pragmatic, ethical, and community-driven leader who successfully works across tribal, state, federal, and private sectors.

Academic Career & Influence

For more than 20 years, Dr. Blatchford taught at the University of Alaska Anchorage, where he became known as a dynamic and respected professor in:

• Alaska Native Studies

• Journalism & Public Communications

• U.S. Government & Public Policy

• Indigenous Politics & Rights

• Corporate Governance

• Rural Development

He has advised hundreds of students, led academic programs, and contributed significant research on the Alaska Native Claims Settlement Act (ANCSA), corporate democracy, and the socioeconomic future of Native communities.

He has also served on major boards—including the Alaska Housing Finance Corporation, Alaska Railroad Corporation, and Alaska Industrial Development Authority—helping guide policy that impacted tens of thousands of Alaskans.

Indigenous Advocacy & National Recognition

Dr. Blatchford is widely regarded as a global subject-matter expert on:

• Alaska Native Corporations

• Indigenous economic and political systems

• Tribal sovereignty

• Rural governance

• Federal Indian policy

He has testified before Congress, contributed to state and federal commissions, and guided the development of the Community Development Quota (CDQ) Program, which created over 1,000 rural Alaska jobs and increased community assets to more than $260 million—one of the most impactful Indigenous economic programs in U.S. history.

His research, publications, and public commentary continue to influence national dialogue on Indigenous rights, corporate governance, self-determination, and public policy.

A Life of Service & Scholarship

Beyond academia and government, Edgar is a marathon runner, union member, community volunteer, and mentor to students pursuing elite college admissions. His career reflects a rare fusion of scholarship, leadership, and community service—qualities that continue to define his work today.