Alaska Mental Health Trust Authority Hires New CEO
The Alaska Mental Health Trust Authority board of trustees hired Steve Williams as the organization’s Chief Executive Officer, effective January 15, 2022. Williams is currently the Trust’s Chief Operating Officer, a role he has held for eight of his sixteen years with the Trust.
Williams replaces current CEO Mike Abbott, who announced his retirement in 2021.
“Following a rigorous recruitment and interview process, it was clear to trustees that Steve’s experience, leadership, and commitment to the Trust and its mission made him the right person for the job,” says Chris Cooke, chair of the board of trustees. “With our active work on several initiatives to improve our system of care, a strong annual grants program, and exciting land development opportunities underway and on the horizon, we know Steve will lead our organization and excellent staff to great things.”
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January 2026
As CEO, Williams oversees both the Alaska Mental Health Trust Authority and the Trust Land Office. The Trust, using income generated from its invested assets and revenues generated from its lands, grants around $25 million a year to state agencies, nonprofits, and providers across Alaska. The Trust Land Office generates revenues by managing the Trust’s one million acres of land and non-cash assets in areas ranging from forestry to land sales, minerals, and energy resource development.
“I am both excited and appreciative for this opportunity to lead an organization that I care so deeply about,” Williams says. “I’m looking forward to working with the Trust board and staff, as well as our advisors, partners, and beneficiaries to ensure the Trust maintains and builds collaborative, authentic partnerships that will help us attain our mission of improving the lives of Trust beneficiaries today and in the future.”
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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!