James M. Nageak is a Retired Consultant for Linguistics at the University of Alaska Fairbanks (UAF), where he Taught Inupiaq. With seven campuses across the state, UAF is home to more than 11,000 students from all over the world. With the vast environmental laboratory of Alaska as its backyard, UAF attracts exceptional individuals — academic superstars and adventure-seekers alike. James specialized in language translations (Inupiaq), as well as his linguistic and teaching duties at the university. While studying Greek and Hebrew to translate the New and Old Testament, James found his passion for linguistics and continued to learn and move on to teach Inupiaq, his native tongue used by Alaskan locals. He earned a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Sociology from the University of Alaska Fairbanks before going on to complete his Masters Degree in Divinity. James also has the unique distinction of being the first seminary-educated Presbyterian Eskimo Minister. The Presbytery of Yukon is a governing body of the Synod of Alaska-Northwest, Presbyterian Church (USA) under the authority of Scripture, the guidance of the Book of Confessions, and the direction of the Book of Order. In the Presbytery, there are four distinct language and culture groups: the Inupiat Eskimos are in the north and speak Inupiaq; the Yupik Eskimos are in the west and speak St. Lawrence Island Yupik; in the Interior and South Central are Koreans and English speakers. James is currently retired from his position as minister, but remains active in his church and community.  During his retirement, James has enjoyed time with his family and recently commissioned voiceover and translations in Inupiaq for “Never Alone,” a video game coming out later this year. He also partakes in a wide range of activities to help those in his village. As an elder, he represents his community in local conferences and conducts research.  He is also a member of the Board of Trustees for the Tribal College of Alaska and is a North Slope Federal Subsistence Researcher. James dedicates his success to humor and constant curiosity. He will continue to be an asset to his community and sustain a healthy and happy lifestyle. In his spare time, James participates in the Nagramiut Dance Group, and enjoys making hand-crafted knives and uloo. “A day without laughter is a day wasted”-Harry Chapin