Project GRAD Kenai Peninsula Hires New Executive Director
Photo Credit: Project GRAD Kenai Peninsula
The board of directors for Project GRAD Kenai Peninsula hired former teacher and school district superintendent Rayna Bird as the organization’s new Executive Director.
Project GRAD has partnered with the Kenai Peninsula Borough School District for more than twenty years to provide supplemental education and activities at nine isolated and underserved schools.
Bird has extensive experience in grant management and reporting, which will be invaluable for an organization that relies on federal and state grant funding. She also has experience in workforce development, tribal government, and community relations.
“I am truly honored to have been chosen to lead Project GRAD Kenai Peninsula, and I have been inspired by the dedication of the team and the potential for further positive change within our community,” says Bird.
Current Issue
February 2025
Bird takes over for Jane Beck, who has been with Project GRAD since 2005. Beck remains to assist Bird with the transition.
“It has been my privilege to work over the years to empower students to become curious lifelong learners,” says Beck. “I want to thank all the Project GRAD staff, both past and present, who have dedicated their time and expertise to helping kids and young adults learn and develop the skills they will need to be successful.”
“On behalf of the entire Project GRAD family, I want to thank Jane Beck for her years of hard work and dedication to our mission,” says Conrad Woodhead, chair of the Project GRAD Kenai Peninsula hiring committee. “She will be missed but her legacy will live on in the work that we do every day supporting students on their academic and life journey.”
“We look forward to having Rayna at the helm to bring her unique background and perspective to our work and communities,” says Board Chair Bob Moore. “I want to thank Jane Beck for guiding Project GRAD Kenai Peninsula through some tough times and for ensuring the organization is strong and stable going into the future.”
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Architecture & Engineering + Interior
February 2025
In our February 2025 issue, we highlight how architecture and engineering improve every facet of our daily lives, from increasing the availability and affordability of housing to building small businesses and improving community safety. Projects like these are helmed by Alaska’s exceptional professionals, including the 2024 Anchorage Engineer of the Year Nominees. In the Interior, Red Dog Mine and the Fountainhead Antique Auto Museum are both making big moves. Enjoy!