Our Team

  • Michael Lance

    Director of Administration

    Michael was born and raised in Chugiak before moving to Chicago in the summer of ’01. There, he discovered his passion for production work in the live event industry. Specializing in lighting, rigging, crew management, and event design, he has worked with clients such as United Airlines, Grainger, Abbott Labs, NASCAR, Sweet Adelines, and the Firefly Music Festival, among many other top-level organizations. His talents took him to Europe, Central America, Canada, and 31 U.S. states, where he has worked closely with musicians, actors, authors, academics, CEOs, and even a couple of U.S. Presidents.

    Michael relocated his family back to Alaska in the fall of ‘21, bringing his love for behind-the-scenes production work, passion for staff and patron experiences, and considerable live event perspective to the Alaska Center for the Performing Arts. Working closely with his team, he successfully implemented industry-leading best practices, redefined operational strategies with a constant focus on the patron experience, and provided crucial knowledge and expertise while bringing Broadway touring shows like Hamilton, Six, and Aladdin to the Alaskan community.

    With over 20 years of strategic oversight, team leadership, project and event management, he looks forward to helping the team at ACF continue their great work throughout Alaska. Michael will manage staff and operations at the BP Energy Center and guide administrative operations, business processes, and special projects at Calais to ensure ACF continues to refine efficiencies ensuring effective day-to-day functions.

  • DJ Valdez

    Operations Associate

    DJ was born and raised in the land of The Last Frontier. Despite him being surrounded by the Alaskan wildlife, DJ is closely in touch with his Filipino roots. He is currently attending the University of Alaska Anchorage to earn his bachelor's degree in business management. Prior to joining ACF, he served as an Auto Reconditioning Specialists for his car detailing business where he created meaningful relationships and was able to express his creativity when it came to digital marketing. During DJ’s free time, he loves to enjoy outdoor activities such as snow-machining, hiking, long jogs, and scenic drives. Being tied to his Filipino culture, he is also very fond of being in the kitchen cooking and exploring his taste buds with loved ones.

  • Devin Frey

    Operations Associate

    Devin grew up in a small town north of Anchorage, where he developed a deep passion for music and performance. His mother’s adventurous spirit fostered a love for travel, allowing him to experience diverse cultures across India, Ireland, Scotland, Mexico, Hawaii, New York, California, and beyond. After earning a Bachelor of Arts in Theatre from UAA, he relocated to Anchorage, where he built a dynamic career as an Audio Engineer, supporting local artists and events across the state. It was during his time at UAA that he met his talented wife through the Glee Club, and a few years later, they married.

    Prior to joining the BP Energy Center, Devin spent seven years in the UAA IT department as an AV Specialist. In this role, he quickly became the primary—and often sole—AV support resource for the Anchorage campus, leading room upgrade projects, system repairs, and high-level meeting support for leadership, including University Presidents and State Governors. His experiences in this capacity inspired him to explore opportunities within Alaska’s nonprofit sector, where he could apply his skills to support a broader community.

    Devin’s extensive background in event design, support, and management provides him with a unique perspective in serving BPEC clients. He is honored to contribute to the mission of ACF and its Affiliate Foundations, helping to foster and strengthen philanthropy across Alaska.

  • Mariah Fuller

    Operations Associate

    Mariah Fuller is a dedicated and hardworking junior at South High School in Anchorage, Alaska, where she strives to achieve excellence in both her academic and personal pursuits. Born and raised in Anchorage, Mariah has developed a deep appreciation for the great outdoors. She loves spending her free time engaging in activities like snowboarding, hiking, fishing, and camping, always seeking to connect with nature in all its forms. Mariah is an adventurous spirit who thrives in the Alaskan wilderness, but she is also drawn to warmer climates, with a particular love for Hawaii. Her travel dreams include exploring Europe, where she hopes to experience new cultures and landscapes beyond her home state.

    Known for her reliability and trustworthiness, Mariah is someone her friends, family, and peers can always count on. Whether it’s helping others or being there for her loved ones, Mariah is always ready to lend a hand and make a positive impact on those around her.

    As she continues to grow and develop, Mariah is focused on building a successful future. She believes in the value of hard work and is determined to pursue her goals with determination and a positive attitude. With a passion for living life to the fullest and an unwavering commitment to her values, Mariah aims to make the most of every opportunity while maintaining her joyful and optimistic outlook on life.