Marathon Petroleum: Marathon Petroleum donates to Kenaitze Indian Tribe campus project

Marathon Petroleum officials presented a check to leaders to fund construction of the Kahtnuht’ana Dena’ina Community Hall and Harvest Pavilion at the Tribe’s Waterfront campus in Kenai on Sept. 27. The project will enhance the tribe’s food sovereignty and youth education programs through modernized facilities, and it honors the location’s traditional spiritual and cultural importance as a gathering place for community events.

“It’s our honor to provide this investment alongside many other key community partners,” said Cameron Hunt, Marathon Petroleum Refining General Manager. “We look forward to seeing the center come to life and provide cultural benefit to current and future generations of the Kenaitze.”

The M.J. Murdock Charitable Trust awarded $300,000 to the project with a requirement that the Tribe raise an additional $150,000 from other donors. Duran Lucas, Right-of-Way Specialist with Marathon Pipe Line, and Casey Sullivan, Marathon Petroleum Government and Public Affairs Manager, worked together to help meet the tribe’s fundraising goal.

Other donors include Cook Inlet Tribal Council; Alaska Mental Health Trust Authority; Rasmuson Foundation; Peninsula Ear, Nose and Throat Clinic, Inc.; Salamatof Tribal Council; and Kenai Natives Association.

When complete, the pavilion will be 3,453 square feet, with enough space to accommodate gatherings of up to 299 people.