The Nature Conservancy Welcomes New Alaska State Director

The Nature Conservancy (TNC) is proud to announce the selection of Caitlin Hedberg as State Director of its Alaska business unit, effective February 14, 2026. Hedberg steps into one of the organization’s most strategically important leadership roles as the organization works to ensure connections to lands, waters and wild foods continue to sustain future generations of Alaskans.

As Alaska State Director, Hedberg will lead TNC’s work across Alaska. The organization has two major focal areas in the state—Bristol Bay and Southeast Alaska—along with work across the state on issues related to climate change and climate adaptation.

“Alaska is a place of globally significant biodiversity and natural resources, is home to 229 federally recognized Tribes, and is deeply experiencing the impacts of climate change,” said Mike Stevens, TNC’s Western U.S. & Canada Division director. “Alaska plays a vital role in a thriving future for the planet and in meeting TNC’s 2030 goals. Caitlin will bring the leadership, experience, passion and commitment to make lasting conservation progress in Alaska.”

For the last nine years, Hedberg served as the Alaska Business Unit’s director of philanthropy. During that time, she built strong and trusting relationships with donors, fundraisers and other leaders across TNC. A proven creative and entrepreneurial strategist, Hedberg leads with her love for Alaska and TNC’s goal for meaningful impact.

“Caitlin has been a steady force on Alaska's leadership team through significant change, building our capacity and driving critical initiatives,” said TNC Alaska Board Chair Nikoosh Carlo. “Caitlin knows intimately what this role requires and what it takes to succeed. I'm confident we have the right leader for this moment.”

In welcoming Hedberg, TNC Alaska’s leadership and Board of Trustees reaffirm their commitment to continuity and strong momentum across Alaska, where TNC has operated for more than 35 years.

The Nature Conservancy conducted a rigorous and far-reaching search to identify its next Alaska state director. The final selection involved multiple rounds of interviews with organizational and board leaders. This collaborative and thorough process ensures the chosen leader reflects the experience, vision and values essential for guiding TNC’s critical work in Alaska.

“I am honored and humbled to have been chosen to serve as Alaska’s state director at this pivotal time,” Hedberg said. “Climate pressures, resource-use decisions, political dynamics and community priorities intersect so profoundly in Alaska. The awesome responsibility to advance cross-boundary conservation while strengthening Indigenous partnerships is deeply meaningful and inspiring to me.”

Outside of work, Hedberg seeks every opportunity to be outdoors. She is an avid hiker, biker, hunter, fisher and all-around outdoorsperson. She lives in Anchorage with her partner and two dogs.