Author: Emily Russell, KCAW

While originally from the small upstate town of Queensbury, New York, I've called Alaska "home" for the past four years. I moved in 2012 to pursue a Master's in Northern Studies from the University of Alaska Fairbanks. It was there, both inside and outside the classroom that I fell in love with the state's humbling landscapes, rich culture, and deep-rooted subsistence traditions. After completing my degree, I combined my thesis research on the Bering Strait region and love of radio and volunteered for a year as a reporter for KNOM Radio Mission in Nome. I'm thrilled to continue reporting now for KCAW and look forward calling Sitka "home." When I'm not out reporting, you'll likely be able to find me hiking, fishing, berry-picking, or trying to convince someone to take me hunting.Emily will be with Raven Radio through May of next year.