Lynn Rust Henderson to Lead AEDC Board Into 2019
The Anchorage Economic Development Corporation kicked off 2019 by announcing Lynn Rust Henderson, Vice President of Sales and Service for Premera Blue Cross Blue Shield of Alaska, as AEDC’s board Chair.
Joining her on the board’s executive team are David Knapp, Head of Control for BP Alaska, as Vice Chair; Michael Huston, Executive Vice President and Chief Lending Officer for Northrim Bank, as Secretary and Treasurer; Raquel Edelen, Vice President of Operations for the Hotel Captain Cook, as immediate past board chair and finally Steve Noble, Vice President of Alaska Operations for DOWL, as at-large executive committee member.
“These five individuals have already made great contributions to AEDC, and we’re lucky to have them as our executive board leadership this year,” said Bill Popp, President and CEO of AEDC. “Their combined years of experience in some of Anchorage’s most important industries are invaluable to our organization’s mission.”
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January 2026
In addition to new leadership in 2019, four new Alaska business leaders will join AEDC’s 15-member board of directors.
New members include: Dave Cavitt, President of Furniture Enterprises of Alaska; Laura Edmondson, Sr. Vice President/CFO of Bering Straits Native Corporation; Marty Bettis, General Manager of Signature Flight Support; and Garret Wong, Director of Capital Management Benefits Corporation.
“We’re very excited to welcome new board members as we head into 2019,” Popp said. “Dave, Laura, Marty and Garret’s expertise will bring fresh perspectives and new ideas for supporting a prosperous, sustainable and diverse economy in Anchorage.”
The AEDC board helps to ensure the organization continues to make steps that align with its mission and achieve its vision statement.
View the full list of board members and officers here.
Donlin Gold Signs Up for Alaska LNG Pipeline Gas
Glenfarne and Donlin Gold signed a letter of intent to supply natural gas to power the mine site, uniting two of Alaska’s long-sought megaprojects.
A Christmas Gift: M/V Kennicott Returns to Service
The state ferry M/V Kennicott returned to service after a generator project and overall refresh; now M/V Columbia goes into annual overhaul.
Fleet Order for 100+ 737s the Largest in Alaska Airlines History
Alaska Airlines executed an option to order 105 new Boeing 737-10 aircraft and five new 787 aircraft, while also unveiling a new global livery design.
We’re honored again this year to celebrate our partnership with Junior Achievement of Alaska, a nonprofit that educates local youth about enterprise, business, money, and financial literacy. In the special section, three Junior Achievement of Alaska students weigh in on their experience with the exceptional volunteers and teachers involved with the program.
And in Industry Support, we explore the range of varied services that industry in Alaska requires, from mancamps to spill response to off-grid energy solutions.
Outside the special sections, make sure to check out the 2026 Economic forecast, where Alaska leaders share their insights on what may lie ahead in the coming year. Enjoy!