Cheryl Adamson To Head New Office Of Citizenship Assistance

Nov. 02, 2004
No. 05-30

JUNEAU – Cheryl Adamson, an Alaska Department of Labor and Workforce Development employment security specialist with a master’s degree in social work, will lead the new Office of Citizenship Assistance (OCA), reporting directly to Labor Commissioner Greg O’Claray.

The new post in Juneau is responsible for assisting resident workers in Alaska who are not yet U.S. citizens become naturalized members of the workforce. The department is also reviewing plans to offer services in the Anchorage area.

“U.S. citizenship is a precious right that we too often take for granted,” O’Claray said. “I am confident that Ms. Adamson will be a great asset helping new Alaskans become a productive part of our labor force.

“Her responsibilities will include helping individuals who have relocated to Alaska navigate government agencies on their path to full and meaningful employment.”

O’Claray commented, “My father came here from the Philippines and as a boy growing up in Juneau I saw how intimidating government can be to a newcomer. The citizenship office will strengthen our duty at the department to support and encourage working Alaskans.”

Adamson has been a labor department employment security specialist for three years. She previously worked in Ketchikan as a member of the child protective services staff with the Alaska Department of Health and Social Services.

The OCA under Adamson’s leadership will develop recommendations on how the labor department can improve employment opportunities for new Alaska residents.

The Office of Citizenship Assistance was created by House Bill 379, sponsored by Representative Bruce Weyhrauch, R-Juneau. The representative joined Governor Frank H. Murkowski for the official bill signing during July ceremonies at Juneau-Douglas High School.

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News Media Contacts:
Cheryl Adamson, OCA Project Coordinator, 907.465.2700 or
Joe Holbert, Special Assistant/Communications, 907-465-5673

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