Rural Development alumna named to USDA rural director position

Julia Hnilicka of Nenana was recently announced as the USDA State Director of Rural Development for Alaska. USDA Rural Development programs support infrastructure, housing, business, community, and economic development projects across rural Alaska. 

Hnilicka obtained her master’s degree in rural development from the UAF Department of Alaska Native Studies and Rural Development.

In a recent interview with the Fairbanks Daily News Miner, she credited her master's in rural development for growing her understanding of rural Alaska, stating, “Being part of it really transformed my life and the way I thought about Alaska... I had the opportunity to travel to villages and communities all over the state, from Deadhorse to Tyonek. I saw that a lot of the communities have the same challenges with maintaining educators and building their workforce.”

In her new role, Hnilicka will promote the mission and goals of rural development across the state. "Her primary mission is to be a positive force in Alaska’s future, which drives her dedication to address the housing crisis, broadband for all, support for small businesses, and workforce development" the USDA stated in its release.