AKPIRG Leadership Update, September 2025
Dear AKPIRG community,
We want to share an important update with you: Julia Hnilicka has decided to step down as Executive Director of AKPIRG. While this position was ultimately not the right fit, we part ways with respect for her and gratitude for the work she has done with our team.
Transitions are a natural part of organizational life. What remains constant is AKPIRG’s commitment to building a more just, transparent, and accountable Alaska. Our staff, board, and partners are strong and ready to continue advancing this mission.
In the immediate term, AKPIRG’s Board has appointed Erin Willahan as Acting Executive Director. Erin previously served as Deputy Director and brings a deep knowledge of the organization, strong leadership experience, and a clear commitment to our mission. She steps into this role with the full confidence and support of both staff and board, ensuring stability and continuity as we move forward. We will soon launch a thoughtful process to select the next permanent Executive Director, and we are confident this transition will ultimately strengthen our organization.
We wish Julia well in her next chapter and remain grateful for her contributions to AKPIRG.
Above all, we want to reassure our partners, supporters, and community: our work continues, and our commitment to fighting for Alaskans has never been stronger.
Thank you for your continued support.
Sincerely,
The AKPIRG Board
If you’d like to show your support for AKPIRG during this new chapter, we invite you to make a gift today -- an investment in strong, community-centered advocacy that holds powerful interests accountable and builds a fairer Alaska.
