Women Who Inspire Wednesday: Joanie Fullwood
Written by Program Coordinator, Chris Schnell
Born in Dillingham, Alaska, and raised in the village of South Naknek in the Bristol Bay Region, Joanie Fullwood’s life has been shaped by the values of connection, hard work, and showing up for others. Growing up in a close-knit community where everyone looked out for one another, Joanie learned early on the power of tradition, community, and shared responsibility.
After graduating from Mt. Edgecumbe High School in Sitka and attending UAA, Joanie embarked on a career path that began in the financial sector, spending eight years in banking and two in insurance before finding her true calling in education and nonprofit work. Her journey took her through roles at KeyBank, where she built a strong foundation in personal finance. Working at Credit Union 1, she honed her leadership skills and gained hands-on experience in lending and credit building. Earning her insurance license in 2021 provided further insight into commercial properties, small businesses, and workers’ compensation, adding to the diverse skill set she carries into her current role.
Today, Joanie serves as Scholarship and Grants Program Manager for the Bristol Bay Foundation, supporting Alaska Native students and communities in Bristol Bay through scholarships, financial literacy, and cultural wellness resources. She is deeply passionate about giving back, helping others pursue higher education, vocational training, and cultural revitalization.
Joanie’s path hasn’t been without challenges. Moving from her small village to larger, faster-paced environments brought culture shock and feelings of displacement. But by staying connected to her roots, seeking supportive mentors, and pushing herself into new and sometimes uncomfortable experiences, she developed resilience, confidence, and a strong sense of identity.
Her proudest achievement is the role she holds today, which is a culmination of her experiences in the airline industry, finance, insurance, and community work. Each step has strengthened her connection to service and prepared her to make a lasting impact. For Joanie, success means making a positive difference, living in alignment with her values, and helping others reach their full potential.
When asked what advice she would give to young women, Joanie says, “You are more capable than you think. Don’t wait for permission to lead, speak up, or chase your goals and just start. Trust yourself, and know that you’ll grow stronger and more confident along the way.” She draws inspiration from single mothers who persevere through hardship and Indigenous women who work to heal generational trauma, sharing their wisdom so others can do the same.