Our Founder

Ben Kolendo’s journey started in Alaska, where his family’s roots have shaped his values and ambitions. He graduated from Career Tech in 2024 and has spent the last six years serving as a student representative, including several years on the school board. During that time, Ben worked hard to advocate for students and improve the education system. He has extensive experience reviewing budgets and curricula, and attended Curriculum Council meetings and visited schools to see how curricula were being implemented.

Ben has also worked with the Alaska Health Department under Governor Dunleavy for the past five years, advising on youth drug and alcohol abuse prevention. This experience has made him one of the top advisors in the state, contributing to several drug prevention task forces and working with organizations like the Alaska Health Department Mental Health Board and the Advisory Board on Alcoholism and Drug Abuse. He continues to collaborate with congress members, senators, and other key leaders to ensure a healthier and safer future for Alaska’s youth.