The National Indian Health Board (NIHB) is deeply saddened by the passing of our former Board Member, Lincoln Bean Senior. Lincoln possessed an immense commitment to Indian Country, demonstrated through his decades of service at NIHB, Southeast Alaska Regional Health Consortium (SEARHC), Alaska Native Health Board (ANHB), Alaska Native Tribal Health Consortium (ANTHC), and the council of the Organized Village of Kake. His life of service to his community will stand as a reminder through time to the perseverance and resilience of his people.
Lincoln was steadfast in his vision for the Alaska Tribal Health System and never wavered from his pursuit of improving health outcomes for Alaska Natives. His work and advocacy were crucial in the reauthorization of the Indian Healthcare Improvement Act, in addition to the expansion of Tribal self-governance. His contributions spanned many other issue areas of vital importance, including facilities, appropriations, diabetes, native veterans, and native wellness through culture and language.
Each year, NIHB highlights some of the great health work occurring throughout Indian Country. The highest-level award is the Jake White Crow Award, which recognizes an individual with outstanding lifetime achievements in elevating health care advocacy, raising awareness, or affecting change for American Indian and Alaska Native Health care. In 2024, Lincoln received the Jake White Crow Award from NIHB. He was chosen for his extensive advocacy and service over the last five decades.
“Lincoln was a dear friend, and a champion for Alaska Native health. His accomplishments and achievements in service to American Indian and Alaska Native health outcomes are unparalleled”, said NIHB Board Chairman William (Bill) Smith (Valdez). “His life and work are a testament to what’s possible when someone is singularly focused on delivering results for their people. All in public service should look at his life for inspiration in their work”.
Lincoln’s life was generous and contained lived experience in the field as a volunteer EMT, serving the people of Southeast Alaska, as well as time at the board room table, shaping policy decisions that advanced the cause of native health nationally – for generations to come. His impact on our field and on Indian Country will be felt for years.
We extend our sincere condolences to his family. May his compassionate, steadfast nature, and his tireless pursuit of native health, serve as a monument for our continued work, and for all the generations that come after.
