Tanana Chiefs Conference names cancer center for Andy and Barbara Jimmy

Tanana Chiefs Conference named its cancer center in Fairbanks for Andy and Barbara Jimmy at a dedication ceremony last week. The gathering brought together community members, tribal leaders, healthcare partners, family and friends.

Andy Jimmy served as Traditional Chief of Minto and former chair of the TCC Advisory Health Board. He was remembered for decades of leadership and advocacy on behalf of Alaska Native people and the Alaska Tribal Health System. Barbara Jimmy was honored for compassion, resilience and commitment to family and community.

"Together, Andy and Barbara embodied the values of unconditional love, compassion, dignity and respect," Amy Hughes, a prevention specialist at TCC, stated at the ceremony.

The evening included cultural performances, guided tours and the unveiling of the cancer center. The space is dedicated to healing, compassion and culturally grounded care for future generations.