View the complete list of interns - Sealaska

Name: Tom L. Pittman VIIIIntern For: HR WellnessLocation: Juneau, AlaskaPrior Intern: 1 st Rotation as InternSchool: Brigham Young University-IdahoProgram: Bachelor of Science in HumanBiologyMy grandmother Rosaline Beierly was born inJuneau, Alaska in 1942. Her mother, Ida Beierly,was born in Hoonah. My Tlingit name is Koohook, Iam of the Raven moiety and of the T'akdeintaan(Sea Pigeon People). I was born in Juneau andmoved to Eagle River, Alaska when I was in the 5 thgrade. My father began his career through aninternship with Sealaska for three summers starting in 1984. His career then took him toGoldbelt, Calista, and the Alaskan Native medical center. Seeing him work at ANMC,and seeing the importance of Natives taking care of other Natives is what inspired me topursue the career path in healthcare. I’m a senior studying human biology at BrighamYoung University-Idaho. I expect to graduate spring 2014. This summer I’m workingwith Human Resources at corporate headquarters in Juneau to help implement theSealaska Wellness program.Values In Action StatementAs a people we value more than most our community’s wellbeing. Inspired by that Ihave chosen to pursue a career of helping the physical wellness of our community. Atcollege I’ve learned some of the science of how the human body works. As an intern atSealaska however, I have learned to appreciate the social and spiritual health of people.I have also learned that our Native values are related to each other. I have also seenhow when people work together (Wooch.éen) we become stronger, more capable andhave a stronger resolve (Haa Latseen).As an intern with Sealaska, working with the Wellness program, I have learned that ourculture’s values are capable of helping all people become better individuals andmembers of the community. I’ve seen these values motivate people to look out for oneanother and help each other reach for new opportunities. I am enjoying the experienceof helping people with their health concerns and overcoming barriers keeping them fromoverall healthiness. This internship with Sealaska has been a privilege and given me anew perspective that I hope will stay with me my whole career.