April 14, 2026

United States Arctic Research Commission Welcomes Alaska Governor Mike Dunleavy as Commissioner

Washington, D.C. — The United States Arctic Research Commission (USARC) today welcomes President Trump’s appointment of Mike Dunleavy as a Commissioner.

Governor Dunleavy brings extensive experience working on issues affecting Alaska’s Arctic communities, including economic development, infrastructure, responsible resource development, and community resilience. As Governor of the nation’s only Arctic state, he has been closely engaged in many of the issues that shape U.S. Arctic priorities.

The Commission and the State of Alaska have a long history of cooperation in identifying national Arctic research priorities and ensuring that federal Arctic research activities address the needs of Arctic residents and communities. Governor Dunleavy’s appointment strengthens that longstanding partnership.

“The Commission is pleased to welcome Governor Dunleavy,” said Thomas E. Dans, Chairman of the U.S. Arctic Research Commission. “Alaska plays a central role in the nation’s Arctic research enterprise. The Governor’s perspective and experience will contribute to the Commission’s work advising the President and Congress on Arctic research priorities and advancing collaboration across the federal government, the State of Alaska, and Arctic communities.”

USARC was established by the Arctic Research and Policy Act of 1984 to develop and recommend national Arctic research policy and priorities and to help coordinate the federal government’s Arctic research activities.

The Commission also expressed its appreciation to outgoing Commissioner Deborah Vo for her service and contributions to advancing Arctic research priorities and engagement with Arctic communities. The Commission remains committed to ensuring that the perspectives of Arctic residents and Alaska Native Organizations continue to inform its work and recommendations.

The U.S. Arctic Research Commission works closely with federal agencies, the State of Alaska, Alaska Native Organizations, and the research community to advance scientific understanding of the Arctic and support informed decision-making for the region and the nation.