1984-1987 Willie Hensley

1984-1987 Willie Hensley
Portrait of Willie Hensley
Portrait of Willie Hensley

Anchorage

William (Willie) Hensley, originally from Kotzebue, wrote the paper, "What Rights to Land Have the Alaska Natives: The Primary Issue," which provided the background that many Native Alaskans needed to begin the land claims process.

Hensley was a founder of NANA Regional Corporation, served as a director for 20 years and concluded his career there as president. He was a founder of Maniilaq, the regional non-profit organization representing tribes in the Kotzebue region, and was involved in the formation of the Alaska Federation of Natives and served as executive director, president and co-chairman. Hensley served as commissioner of commerce and economic development for Governor Tony Knowles, and is currently manager of federal government relations for Alyeska Pipeline Service Company.


Interview with Willie Hensley, on the passage of the Alaska Native Claims Settlement Act (ANCSA), on UAA LitSite

Willie Hensley - Guest Lecture at the 3rd Annual Alaska Book Festival