For Immediate Release
Contact: Cassandra Stalzer, 907-334-0520

Anchorage, AK – Alaska-based nonprofit and tribal executives interested in Rasmuson Foundation’s Sabbatical Program have until October 1 to apply. Now entering its 12th year, the program offers awards up to $40,000 to cover salary and expenses incurred during a two- to six-month sabbatical.

Nonprofit organizations benefit when their leaders engage in well-planned sabbaticals. An extended leave allows the leader, the board and staff to develop new perspectives, and often energizes organizational innovation. (Download the Creative Disruption: Sabbaticals for Capacity Building and Leadership Development in the Nonprofit Sector here.)

Executives from tribes and all nonprofit sectors are eligible to apply. Applicants must be an Alaska resident with at least five years in the nonprofit sector and at least three years in the position of CEO, president, executive director, or tribal administrator.

The program is designed to provide time away from the office for rest and personal renewal.

The application requires a written plan for how the organization will be managed in the leader’s absence and a letter from the organization’s board endorsing its executive’s decision to apply for the sabbatical.

The primary criteria for selection are 1) the benefit of the sabbatical to the individual and the organization; 2) demonstrated ability of the organization to sustain itself in the executive’s absence; and 3) the executive’s demonstrated level of performance and leadership within the organization. Personal interviews with finalists play a major role in the decision process. The process is competitive.

Since the first sabbaticals were awarded in 2005, 61 Alaskans have gone on Sabbatical through the program. Search past recipients here and watch the video “Go For It.” Guidelines and application materials are available at the Foundation’s website or by calling (907) 297-2700 or toll free (within Alaska) at 1-877-366-2700. Leaders can also be nominated (by anyone) online. Individuals nominated must also complete and submit an application.

About the Foundation
Rasmuson Foundation was created in May 1955 by Jenny Rasmuson to honor her late husband E.A. Rasmuson. The Foundation is a catalyst to promote a better life for all Alaskans.