The Alaska Women’s Hall of Fame (AWHF) has announced its 2024 inductees, recognizing ten remarkable women who have made significant contributions to their communities, professions, and the state. The honorees will be celebrated at a virtual induction ceremony on Wednesday, Oct. 16, at 6 p.m. The event will be broadcast live on the AWHF website, providing a platform for the inductees to share their inspiring stories.
This year’s inductees include a diverse group of women whose achievements span various fields, from science and education to healthcare and journalism. Vera Alexander (1932–2023), a pioneering marine scientist at the University of Alaska Fairbanks, broke barriers for women in science and academia, while Carol Beery Davis (1890–1990) contributed to Alaska’s cultural heritage by writing the second verse of the Alaska State Song and preserving historic artifacts.
Tina DeLapp, a nurse educator at the University of Alaska Anchorage, has made a lasting impact on Alaska’s healthcare by expanding nursing programs and supporting the recruitment and retention of Alaska Native nurses. Dr. Barbara Doty, a Mat-Su Valley physician, has been a key figure in healthcare and community development, co-founding the Alaska Family Medicine Residency Program.
Other honorees include Jo Heckman, the first female CEO and bank president in Alaska, and Janis Johnson, a champion for social services and disability advocacy. The list also features two influential journalists: Rhonda McBride, known for her compassionate reporting, and Nellie Moore (1954–2024), a cultural icon who highlighted the importance of preserving Alaska Native culture and languages.
Attorney Mary Nordale and indigenous health expert Vi Waghiyi round out the list of this year’s inductees. The AWHF website provides biographies and photos of all inductees since the Hall’s inception in 2009.
The AWHF is a non-profit organization that seeks to honor and preserve the legacy of Alaska’s outstanding women. Nominations for future inductees will be open soon, and donations to support the organization’s mission are welcome. For more information, visit http://www.alaskawomenshalloffame.org.
