Photo description: During her 2024 sabbatical, Jodi Rodwell of Denali Education Center took her 81-year-old mother on a once-in-a-lifetime trip to Peru. (Photo courtesy of Jodi Rodwell)

ANCHORAGE, Alaska — Applications are now open for Rasmuson Foundation Sabbatical Awards, offering nonprofit and tribal leaders across Alaska a rare opportunity: a fully funded break to rest, reflect, and return recharged. Up to eight Alaskans will each receive $50,000 for sabbaticals lasting 90 to 120 days.

The program supports long-serving executive leaders by funding time away from work for personal renewal. The goal is simple: help leaders return with fresh energy, new perspectives, and renewed commitment to their communities. Personal renewal can look different for each person. Common uses for a Sabbatical Award include travel, personal enrichment, and time for reflection or rest.

“We know it can be difficult for leaders of mission-driven organizations to find the time to step away from important work and recharge. But taking time for oneself is one of the best ways we build longevity,” said Gretchen Guess, president and CEO of Rasmuson Foundation. “With the Sabbatical Awards, the Foundation’s goal is to give leaders the break they need to continue working in the tribal and nonprofit sector for years to come.”

In addition to financial support, the Sabbatical Awards program offers a strong support network to ensure a successful and restorative experience for recipients. Rasmuson Foundation partners with The Foraker Group and the Association of Tribal Administrators to provide expert guidance and resources throughout the sabbatical process. These partners assist with planning, organizational support, and reintegration strategies, helping both the individual and their organization maximize the benefits of the time away. To support true disconnection, GCI provides recipients with an alternate phone, helping ensure leaders can fully unplug during their time away.

The sabbatical program also serves as a tool to nurture upcoming talent, providing an opportunity for other staff members to step into leadership roles in the CEO or executive director’s absence.

This announcement follows the recent introduction of the 2025 sabbatical recipients, whose work spans youth services, tribal governance, domestic violence prevention, and more. View past recipients here: rasmuson.org/sabbatical-awardees.

Eligible applicants must have led a 501(c)(3) nonprofit or tribal organization in Alaska for at least five years. The deadline to apply is Aug. 15, 2025.

Interested leaders are encouraged to apply early. Full program details and the application portal are available at rasmuson.org/sabbatical-program.