Calista Elders Council

The Calista Elders Council (CEC) is a non-profit organization representing the 1,300 Yup'ik tradition bearers of the Yukon-Kuskokwim delta in southwest Alaska. It is the major research organization for the region, including a population of more than 20,000, and is active in documenting the traditional knowledge of the Yup'ik people. CEC was established in 1991 as a non-profit organization by Calista (the profit corporation for the Yukon-Kuskokwim delta).

Mark John became executive director in 1997. Under John's leadership, guided by a nine-member board of elders, the CEC has worked to address cultural issues in the Yukon-Kuskokwim delta, including rapid loss of traditional knowledge. Activities include youth and elder culture camps, topic-specific gatherings, the Yupiit Yuraryarait regionwide dance festival held every three to four years, and the production of books and videos to share information gathered during CEC events and activities.

Contact Mark John via eMail