• The Rasmuson Foundation has hired Jeff Baird to serve as its first chief of staff, the organization announced Oct. 8. The foundation, created in May 1955, is Alaska’s wealthiest philanthropic organization, with $704 million in assets as of the end of 2017. Baird, formerly a program officer in charge of administering grants, will now “act as a central nerve center,” according to the foundation’s email announcing his appointment. Baird will coordinate the work of the foundation as it crosses its three components: finance and administration, programs and external affairs.
• Jualani Ostrom of Juneau has graduated with distinction from Pacific University in Oregon, earning a doctorate in physical therapy, the school announced Oct. 8. Founded in 1849, Pacific University is a nationally recognized university offering undergraduate, graduate and professional programs in the arts and sciences, business, education, optometry and health professions from campuses in Forest Grove, Hillsboro, Eugene and Woodburn, Oregon.
