Cuddy named 2002 'Alaskan of the Year'.

• Position: General - Dan Cuddy - Brief Article

Dan Cuddy, chairman and president of First National Bank Alaska, was elected "Alaskan of the Year" for 2002, announced Kay Linton, member of the Alaskan of the Year board of directors.

Cuddy was honored at the 35th annual banquet on March 23. He was selected for the honor, by a group of more than 60 business and community leaders from across the state. Proceeds from the banquet will fund scholarships for college-bound students.

Cuddy's resume reveals a pioneer with deep roots, in Alaska. Born in Valdez in 1921, he worked as a gold miner, heavy equipment operator, commercial fisherman, cannery superintendent, soldier and lawyer before taking over family. owned' First National Bank when his father died in 1951.

What began as a small regional bank in 1922 under Cuddy's leadership became the largest Alaskan-owned statewide bank with assets of $1.8 billion. In the last half century, Cuddy has used his resources to make substantial contributions to Alaska's public education system, including its universities. He continues to support the Lucy Cuddy Center at the University of Alaska Anchorage.

As a major force in the development of small business and in construction around the state, Cuddy was a leader...