Filipino-American Society of Fairbanks, Inc.

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Officers & Members

Current Officers

The Filipino-American Society of Fairbanks Inc. born from the collective desire of Filipino pioneers in the region to preserve and celebrate their cultural heritage. Starting as a small group of dedicated individuals, the society has grown into a vibrant community of members committed to fostering unity, promoting Filipino traditions, and supporting one another.

Portrait of Mary Jo Skaggs, President of the Filipino-American Society of Fairbanks, symbolizing visionary leadership, cultural pride, and a commitment to community empowerment. Mary Jo leads with heart and purpose, guiding the organization toward growth, inclusion, and lasting impact. Join the Filipino-American Society of Fairbanks and help shape a vibrant future rooted in heritage and unity.

Mary Jo Skaggs

  • President
Born in Cebu, Philippines, I have proudly called Fairbanks home for over 30 years, where I live with my husband and three children. I am honored to lead, advocate for and share our Filipino values and culture. Having been involved with Fil-Am as a youth, it’s a privilege to return and build on the strong foundation our founders have established over the past 20 years. With an MBA from UAF and a background in finance and program development, I am committed to working with our officer team to continue growing our vibrant organization.
Portrait of Josephine Osberg-Sneed, Vice President of the Filipino-American Society of Fairbanks, embodying leadership, cultural pride, and a commitment to community growth. Her role supports programs that strengthen unity and celebrate Filipino heritage in Alaska. Get involved today—join the Filipino-American Society of Fairbanks and be a part of shaping a vibrant future.

Josephine Osberg-Sneed

  • Vice President
I am Josephine Osberg-Sneed, the Vice President of the Filipino American Society of Fairbanks, Inc. I also held the same position under Jeff Anderson leadership from 2019-2024. My role as a VP is to assist the president in execution of duties in whatever capacity is assigned. I also assume all duties and responsibilities of the president, in his or her absence. I was also the treasurer under Betsy Engle’s leadership. I supported, volunteered and assisted our fellow kababayans and Filipino organization in Fairbanks for more than 25 years.

I graduated with a degree in Bachelor of Science in Commerce and a major in management at Colegio De San Juan De Letran. This attributed to my success as a business owner and management positions held for over 20 years.

My passion for dancing led me to be a dance instructor for more than 10 years. I find joy in performing with others on or off stage, while sharing the experience of dance and song to build community connection.

Portrait of Lumina McKenzie, Treasurer of the Filipino-American Society of Fairbanks, symbolizing trust, accountability, and community service. Lumina plays a vital role in managing resources that support cultural events, scholarships, and outreach. Join the Filipino-American Society of Fairbanks and help strengthen a future built on transparency, unity, and Filipino pride.

Lumina McKenzie

  • Treasurer
I’m originally from Olongapo City, Philippines, and I have called Fairbanks home for 25 years. As Treasurer, I oversee the general financial management of the organization. My responsibilities include planning and tracking budgets, collecting, depositing, and monitoring funds, writing checks, and preparing financial reports for fellow committee members.
Portrait of Roseanne Newhard, Secretary of the Filipino-American Society of Fairbanks, representing dedicated service, cultural pride, and strong organizational leadership. Roseanne plays a key role in communication and coordination, helping the society grow and thrive. Be inspired to serve—get involved with the Filipino-American Society of Fairbanks and support community-driven leadership.

Roseanne Newhard

  • Secretary
Born in the province of Capiz and has a background in the service and retail industry. She volunteers in her community and enjoys sharing and celebrating her culture. She hopes to help others learn more about her roots and traditions.
Image of Aya Boekskool, Assistant Secretary of the Filipino-American Society of Fairbanks, reflecting dedication to organization, communication, and cultural service. Aya supports efforts that keep the society’s mission moving forward—fostering unity, preserving heritage, and empowering members. Take part in building something meaningful—join the Filipino-American Society of Fairbanks today.

Aya Boekskool

  • Assistant Secretary
I am a Waraynon from Tacloban/Palo Leyte, Visayas Region of the Philippines, I have resided in Fairbanks for nearly 15 years. Beyond my Filipino heritage, I am employed in the healthcare industry. I love making Filipino food and sharing it with my family and friends, while also engaging in our native dialect.
I have actively volunteered to assist the Filipino Society of Fairbanks in any way I can. This endeavor is not only a personal goal but also a means of fostering a deeper appreciation for our Filipino culture, values, and heritage among my children and encouraging others to embrace these aspects of our heritage.
Photograph of Shiela May Paraggua (Cole), Public Relations Officer of the Filipino-American Society of Fairbanks, representing dedication to cultural storytelling, community outreach, and inclusive communication. Shiela helps amplify the voices of Filipino Americans and build stronger community ties. Be part of our story—join the Filipino-American Society of Fairbanks and help us share and celebrate Filipino heritage.

Shiela May Paraggua (Cole)

  • Public Relations Officer
I was born and raised in Cagayan de Oro City, Philippines. As a Public Relation Officer, I am responsible for promoting all aspects of planning publicity and PR activities. Beyond Fil-Am, I am currently working as an educator in Fairbanks Northstar Borough School District. I embrace the simple life here in Alaska and spending time in the woods with my husband doing outdoor adventures!
Image of Julie Swisher, Public Relations Officer for the Filipino-American Society of Fairbanks, representing community connection, cultural advocacy, and open communication. Julie helps share the stories, values, and events that unite Filipino-Americans in Fairbanks. Join the movement—get involved with the Filipino-American Society of Fairbanks and help us amplify our shared voice.

Julie Swisher

  • Public Relations Officer

Manages communication between an organization and the public, handles media relations, creates press releases, and promotes a positive image.

A respectful image of Rufina Cheek, serving as Sergeant at Arms for the Filipino-American Society of Fairbanks. Dedicated to upholding tradition, unity, and organizational integrity, Rufina helps foster a welcoming and inclusive space for all. Be part of a growing legacy—get involved with the Filipino-American Society of Fairbanks and support strong community leadership.

Rufina Cheek

  • Sergeant at Arms
I’m from Camiling Tarlac Philippines. I’ve lived and worked in Fairbanks, Alaska for the past 35 years. I retired from the Fairbanks School District after 23 years service. Since then I have done some international traveling and getting more involved with the Filipino American Society of Fairbanks.
A professional portrait of Sharon Turner, proudly serving as Sergeant at Arms for the Filipino-American Society of Fairbanks. Representing leadership, integrity, and dedication to community service, Sharon plays a key role in strengthening unity and ensuring respectful collaboration. Get inspired—join the Filipino-American Society of Fairbanks and be part of a passionate team building a brighter future.

Sharon Turner

  • Assistant Treasurer
maintains order during meetings, enforces rules, and handles security for an organization or legislative body
A respectful photo of Nancy Umoso, proudly serving as Sergeant at Arms for the Filipino-American Society of Fairbanks. Her dedication to order, community support, and cultural celebration reflects the values at the heart of the organization. Take part in preserving heritage and building unity—get involved with the Filipino-American Society of Fairbanks today.

Nancy Umoso

  • Sergeant at Arms

I’m originally from Manila, Philippines, and I’ve been living in Alaska for 10 years. It is with great pride that I serve as one of the officers of the Fil-Am community. As Sergeant at Arms, my duty is to ensure order and safety during meetings and events. This is my first time serving as an officer, and I am eager to learn and happy to help to the best of my ability. In addition to my role in the Fil-Am community, I work as a custodian for the school district and as an associate at Walmart.

Filipino American Society of Fairbanks - Officers by Term

2005-2007

President: Roger Ganacias
Vice President: Edith Dolly Taylor
Secretary: Bill Sneed
Treasurer: Nilda Wichmann
Officers/Directors: Danilo Motas, Ethelyn Redington, Edwina Meyer, Clarisa Swisher, Mark Lewis, Cyrus Flores, Virgie Watson, Manny Ballares

2007-2009

Information Missing

2009-2011

President: Ulanda Ganacias
Vice President: Elizabeth Engle
Secretary: Bill Sneed
Treasurer: Nilda Wichmann
Officers/Directors: Roger Ganacias, Danilo Motas, Edith Dolly Taylor

2011-2013

President: Elizabeth Engle
Vice President: Allan Mesina
Secretary: Violeta Colvin
Treasurer: Piay Diamante
Assistant Secretary: Malou Wolterman
Sergeant at Arms: Kevin Temple, Tim Byrnes
Public Relations Officers: Suyene Dallman, Judith Barbalose
Officers/Directors: Ulanda Ganacias, Yvonne Temple, Claire Swisher

2013-2015

President: Jeanette Campbell
Vice President: Suyene Dallman
Secretary: Violeta Colvin
Assistant Secretary: Rose Tuiletufuga
Treasurer: Piya Weinberger
Assistant Treasurer: Yoly Ganacias
Public Relations Officers: Celly Colley Van Cool, Malou Wolterman, Ethel Reddington
Sergeant at Arms: John Weinberger, John Adams

2015-2017

President: Celly Coolley Van Cool
Vice President: Jeff Anderson
Secretary: Claire Swisher
Treasurer: Suyene Dallman
Public Relations Officer: Elsie Beaman, Jeanne Lowenstein
Sergeant at Arms: Bill Danley, Socrates Luna

2017-2019

President: Elizabeth Engle
Vice President: Jeff Anderson
Secretary: Claire Swisher
Treasurer: Suyene Dallman
Officers/Directors: Roger Ganacias, Ulanda Ganacias, Malou Wolterman, Allan Mesina, Arceli Cooley Van Cooll, Piya Diamante, Violeta Colvin

2019-2024

President: Jeff Anderson
Vice President: Josephine Sneed
Secretary: Jeanette Lozano
Treasurer: Elizabeth Engle
Public Relations Officers: Alona Parrish, Zenny Marlow
Sergeant at Arms: Ray Ludwig, John Adams
Officers/Directors: Celly Coolly Van Cooll, Yolanda Ganacias, Claire Swisher

Lifetime Members

We honor our lifetime members, whose unwavering support and dedication have played a vital role in the success of our organization. These individuals have gone above and beyond to ensure that the Filipino-American Society of Fairbanks remains a pillar of the community.
  • Adams, Grace and John
  • Barbaza, Ramil and Jeanette
  • Boeskool, Aya
  • Bola, Romeo
  • Buchanan, Buena and Craig
  • Colvin, Violeta and Steven
  • Engle, Elizabeth
  • Flores, Cyrus
  • Ganacias, Roger
  • Gavino, Joy
  • Harvey, Rose
  • Loewenstein, Jeanie
  • Marlow, Zenny
  • Mesina, Jonie and Allan
  • Meyers, Wena
  • Mingus, Amparo
  • Motas, Danny
  • Muller, Daisy
  • Petty, Lourdes
  • Sneed, Josephine
  • Swisher, Claire
  • Swisher, Julie and Steve Bayer
  • Temple, Yvone
  • Wages, Rose
  • Wichman, Nilda