November 9, 2026—America’s Communications Association (ACA Connects) today announced GCI as its 2026 Community Champion, recognizing the company’s decade-long commitment to supporting suicide prevention and mental wellness programs that strengthen communities throughout Alaska.
Jack Latzer with ACA Connects congratulates GCI as the 2026 Community Champion. From left to right: David Hymas, GCI, Jack Latzer, ACA Connects, Moira Smith, GCI, Jen Nelson, GCI, Elizabeth Miller, Alaska Community Foundation, Tiffany Vassar, GCI.
Established in 2016 and administered by the Alaska Community Foundation, the GCI Suicide Prevention Fund has awarded more than $1 million through 118 grants supporting 73 Alaska organizations, helping communities develop programs to provide people with hope, healing, and support.
The fund has supported a broad range of initiatives, including school-based peer leadership programs, cultural camps, youth leadership development, veteran wellness projects, suicide prevention training, storytelling and arts programs, talking circles, and community wellness events. Each initiative is designed to foster connection, resilience, and well-being while addressing the specific needs of local communities.
“GCI’s commitment to Alaska goes far beyond connectivity,” said Grant Spellmeyer, President and CEO of America’s Communications Association. “Through its ongoing investment in mental wellness and suicide prevention, GCI is building healthier and stronger communities. We’re proud to support the GCI Suicide Prevention Fund and recognize GCI and its entire team as our 2026 Community Champion.”
“We’re honored to be named ACA Connects’ 2026 Community Champion and grateful for their support of the GCI Suicide Prevention Fund,” said Tiffany Vassar, GCI Senior Program Manager of Contributions & Events. “For ten years, this work has been powered by organizations across Alaska that know their communities, understand their needs and are working every day to make them stronger and more resilient. This recognition belongs to them, and this contribution will help us continue supporting programs that create hope, strengthen connections and help Alaskans thrive.”
The Community Champion Award recognizes ACA Connect member companies that make extraordinary contributions to improving the lives of the people and communities they serve. To recognize GCI as the 2026 champion, ACA Connects donated $2,500 to the GCI Suicide Prevention fund. The company will also be featured in the next issue of Independent Communications News (ICN) in December.
Visit acaconnects.org/community-champions to see all of the 2026 nominees and the many ways ACA Connects members are making a difference.
America’s Communications Association (ACA Connects) is a trade organization representing approximately 500 small and medium-sized, independent companies that provide high-speed internet, video, phone, and mobile services covering 29 million households. ACA Connects members operate in every state, providing advanced communications to connect homes, companies, main street, schools, hospitals and more. America’s economic prosperity in smaller communities and rural areas depends on the growth and success of independent operators, who believe a connected nation is a prosperous nation. For more information, visit www.acaconnects.org.