Edward Itta facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Edward Itta
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| Member of the United States Arctic Research Commission | |
| In office 2012 – July 29, 2015 |
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| Preceded by | Helvi Sandvik |
| Mayor of North Slope Borough, Alaska | |
| In office 2005 – November 15, 2011 |
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| Preceded by | George Ahmaogak Sr. |
| Succeeded by | Charlotte Brower |
| Personal details | |
| Born |
Edward Saggan Itta
July 5, 1945 Utqiagvik, Alaska |
| Died | November 6, 2016 (aged 71) Utqiagvik, Alaska |
| Spouse | Elsie Hopson Itta |
| Relatives | Brenda Itta (sister) |
| Residence | Utqiagvik, Alaska |
Edward Saggan Itta (born July 5, 1945 – died November 6, 2016) was an important leader from Alaska. He was a member of the Iñupiat people, an activist, and a skilled whaling captain. Edward Itta served as the Mayor of North Slope Borough, Alaska, which is the northernmost area like a county in the United States. He was mayor for two terms, from 2005 to 2011. Later, in 2012, President Barack Obama chose him to join the United States Arctic Research Commission. This group helps guide the government's plans and studies for the Arctic region. He worked on this commission until 2015.
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Edward Itta: A Leader for Alaska
Edward Itta was a respected figure who dedicated his life to serving his community and the wider Arctic region. He held many important positions that helped shape the future for the people of Alaska.
Serving as Mayor
Edward Itta was the Mayor of the North Slope Borough, Alaska. This area is very large and covers the northern part of Alaska. It is home to many Iñupiat communities.
- As mayor, he was like the main leader for the whole borough.
- He worked to make decisions that helped the people living there.
- He served two terms, from 2005 until 2011.
- In 2008, he was re-elected for his second term.
- He won with more than half of the votes.
Working for the Arctic
After being mayor, Edward Itta continued his public service. He was chosen to join a special group that focuses on the Arctic.
- In 2012, President Barack Obama appointed him to the United States Arctic Research Commission.
- This commission is a government group that studies the Arctic.
- They help the government make good decisions about the Arctic.
- Edward Itta served on this commission until 2015.
- His knowledge of the Arctic was very valuable to the commission.
Other Important Roles
Edward Itta held many other leadership positions throughout his life. These roles showed his strong commitment to his community and the Iñupiat people.
- He was the President of the Inuit Circumpolar Council of Alaska. This group works to protect the rights and culture of Inuit people across the Arctic.
- He also led the Barrow Whaling Captains Association. This group supports the traditional whaling practices of the Iñupiat.
- He was the vice chairman of the Alaska Eskimo Whaling Commission.
- He represented Alaska on the Outer Continental Shelf Policy Committee. This committee deals with important decisions about the ocean areas near the coast.
Edward Itta's life was dedicated to leadership and advocating for the people and environment of the Arctic.
