APRIL NIBJ: Innovia Foundation welcomes Russell, Alsaker to board
SPOKANE — Innovia Foundation has added two new members to its board: Dan Alsaker, president of Broadway Group, and Luke Russell, chairman of the Idaho Mining Association.
Foundation officials said the pair's leadership will support Innovia’s mission to expand its impact and help make more possible in communities across the region.
Alsaker serves as president of Broadway Group, headquartered in Spokane, overseeing Broadway Flying J Travel Plaza locations in Washington and Nevada. He and his wife, Anne, have been recognized for their work to combat human trafficking in partnership with Lutheran Community Services Northwest. Broadway Group received the Outstanding Philanthropic Corporation award in 2014.
In 2017, the Alsakers established a fund at Innovia with a gift of two life insurance policies aimed at enriching youth education; promoting healthy living and healthy economies; and addressing housing security and criminal justice challenges in the community.
Russell is a retired mining executive whose 35-year career included work in environmental permitting, community relations and governmental affairs for mine sites in North and South America. He is an experienced speaker and team‑builder known for fostering strong professional relationships through a collaborative approach.
Russell has served on several industry boards, including as president of both the American Exploration and Mining Association and the Idaho Mining Association. As a community leader, he served as president and board member of the Coeur d’Alene Rotary Club, where he helped establish and mentor its youth organization, the Interact Club of CDA. He also serves on several nonprofit boards, including Idaho Business for Education and Orchard Ridge Senior Living, and has volunteered with Joshua 1 Nine, an international sports ministry. He is active with his local chamber of commerce public policy committee. He and his wife enjoy whitewater rafting, horses, cowboy poetry and the Idaho outdoors.
Ryan Nipp of Kootenai County serves as president, with Patricia Wright of Whitman County as vice president. The immediate past president is Marcelo Morales of Spokane County. Current directors include Helo Hancock of Kootenai County; Margo Hill‑Ferguson, Scott Hutsell, Stephanie Nobles‑Beans, Jeff Philipps and Jennifer Vigil, all of Spokane County; Kimberly Manning of Bonner County; and Rick Rasmussen of Kootenai County.
As the community foundation for Eastern Washington and North Idaho, Innovia partners with people who want to improve their communities and make the world better. The foundation works to identify and respond to the region’s greatest opportunities, support those in need and leave a lasting impact.
Innovia’s mission is to ignite generosity that transforms lives and communities. Its vision is for vibrant, sustainable communities where every person has the opportunity to thrive. Each year, Innovia invests $14 million into communities through grants and scholarships.
Luke Russell