Since its inception, CTS has bridged gaps, secured critical resources, and built sustainable partnerships across the region. Its creation was driven by the need to improve access to federal and philanthropic funding for programs, while complementing long-standing work by regional non-profits. Today, CTS stands as a cost-effective, collaborative, and impactful nonprofit that is already making a tangible difference in the Chugach region.
Leadership Growth and Team Expansion
As part of this next chapter, CTS announced the promotion of Jayme Selanoff to Deputy Director. Jayme, who has been instrumental in building CTS’s operational foundation, will now take on a leadership role in advancing programs, partnerships, and resources for the region.
CTS has also welcomed the hire of Program Coordinator Tasha Elgarico, who along with Jayme and CTS Executive Director Tanaya Horne rounds out CTS’ operations team.
Together, this team drives CTS’s mission as a tribal nonprofit service provider, administering Chugach shareholder development programs, providing grant writing and management services, and pursuing funding in areas where other nonprofits may not be operating. Their work encompasses workforce development programs such as internships, regional apprenticeships, career planning, Training Without Walls (TWOW), barrier-to-employment scholarships, support for Alaska Pacific University’s Alaska Native Executive Leadership Program (ANELP), Chugach’s Shareholder Business Assistance Program, and leadership development opportunities like the Native American Contractor Association’s Emerging Leaders Program.
Recent CTS hires include Alexandra Hetrick, Nonprofit Accounting Associate, and Amanda O’Brien, Nonprofit Accounting Coordinator. Together they form CTS’s Accounting Team, gaining experience and support through mentorship from Chugach Alaska Corporation’s Shared Services Accounting teamThis team provides essential financial and administrative support not only to CTS but also to the Chugach Heritage Foundation and the Chugach Museum, ensuring fiscal integrity and sustainability across Chugach’s nonprofit network.
Pride in Progress
CTS Executive Director Tanaya Horne reflected on the organization’s incredible and rapid achievements. “In just two years, CTS has grown from concept to reality, and now moving to independence with our own office and expanding team. I am incredibly proud of what we have built together. Our programs are delivering real impact for Chugach shareholders, descendants, and our partner entities. I also want to extend heartfelt congratulations to Jayme Selanoff on her well-deserved promotion to Deputy Director. Her dedication, vision, and commitment have been vital to CTS’s success.”
Chugach President and CTS President Katherine Carlton emphasized the broader significance of these milestones, stating, “CTS was created to fill critical gaps, and in a short time it has made significant progress, securing grant funding, building regional partnerships, and developing programs that advance cultural preservation, workforce opportunities, and community resilience. I am especially proud to see Jayme’s career development within Chugach, a career that spans nearly two decades. Her journey reflects the very purpose of CTS: creating opportunities that grow into lasting impact.”
Speaking about the work ahead and her recent promotion, Jayme Selanoff stated, “There is nothing more rewarding than giving back to the community that has supported me throughout my career. I am excited to take on this new role and continue to learn and grow with our amazing team.”
Looking Ahead
With its own office space, a strengthened operations team, and dedicated accounting support, CTS is positioned for its next phase of growth. Guided by its five-year strategic plan, CTS will continue to pursue financial independence, expand program offerings, and foster collaboration with other nonprofits and community partners, ensuring that the Chugach region thrives for generations to come.
