AVERIE WELLS 
GOVERNMENT RELATIONS MANAGER
Tsimshian/Iñupiaq/Yup’ik/Sugpiaq

Contact: averie@aknpa.org

Averie Wells was born and raised on Dena’ina lands, with family roots across Alaska. She is a member of the Metlakatla Indian Community and of the Gisbutwada (Killer Whale Clan).

Averie is the daughter of Karla Weise and Clinton Wells. Her maternal grandparents are Eileen Cook and John Weise, with roots in Metlakatla and Bethel. Her paternal grandparents are Rhoda Beaver and Harold Wells, with roots in Kotzebue.

Her background includes policy and legislative work in Juneau, where she worked for Representative Tiffany Zulkosky, focusing on energy and education. She later contributed to a statewide education initiative focused on reimagining the future of education in Alaska.

Averie previously worked with the Alaska Federation of Natives, supporting efforts to strengthen tribal capacity and expand access to federal funding for Alaska Native communities. She is projected to receive her Bachelor of Business Administration from Ilisagvik College this fall.

Averie’s work is grounded in uplifting Alaska Native voices, protecting Our ways of life, and ensuring Native communities are not only included in decision-making, but leading it. She carries this work forward with a deep commitment to her communities and future generations.