NEWS RELEASE
April 19, 2007

 

 

Edward K. Thomas Announces His Retirement—Effective Immediately

Wrangell, AK—Central Council Tlingit & Haida Indian Tribes of Alaska (Central Council) President Edward K. Thomas announced his immediate retirement today during his State of the Tribe Address to delegates at the 72nd Annual General Assembly.

Because of the succession rules set by Central Council’s Constitution, 1st Vice President Bill Martin shall succeed President Thomas for the remainder of his term, which ends in April 2008. At that time, Central Council delegates will reconvene and elect a new President.

This announcement came as a surprise to all delegates and staff members. President Thomas wants to make sure that everyone understands this decision was not made for any medical or political reason, but that it was time to move on to a new chapter in his life. He is looking forward to spending more time with his family and beautiful wife Cathy.

President since 1984, Thomas has dedicated the last two decades to providing the highest level of dedicated service to the tribe; his accomplishments are many, too numerous to list (please click here for accomplishments that Thomas is most proud of).

Central Council Executive Council members, delegates and staff thank Edward K. Thomas for his many years of service and wish him the best in whatever path he chooses to pursue.

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