25 years of empowering education dreams!
Executive Director of the Education Trust of Alaska, Lael Oldmixon, highlights the Education Trust of Alaska’s 25th anniversary.
On April 17, 2001, the Education Trust of Alaska launched three 529 plans: Alaska 529, T. Rowe Price 529, and John Hancock Freedom 529, embarking on a mission to help hundreds of thousands of families save for future education expenses.
Today, my team and I are incredibly proud to celebrate a quarter-century of partnership with T. Rowe Price and John Hancock Investments. This collaboration has always been more than just a contract; it is a shared commitment to building a bridge to the future.
To our savers: Thank you for trusting us with your dreams.
Alaska didn't just participate in the 529 movement; we helped lead the way:
- The 1980s: As tuition inflation climbed, the University of Alaska’s own Jim Lynch helped spearhead national solutions for affordable higher education.
- 1991: The University of Alaska launched Advance College Tuition, a pioneer program allowing families to lock in tuition rates.
- 2001: The Education Trust of Alaska was established with the University of Alaska as Trustee, cementing our long-standing partnership with T. Rowe Price.
What began as a visionary idea has evolved into a respected presence in the 529 industry.
- $11.5 Billion in assets under management (as of Dec 2025).
- 316,000+ Beneficiaries supported nationwide (as of Dec 2025)
- 14,000 Alaskans who prioritize their future annually by contributing at least half of their PFD in an Alaska 529 account.
This milestone is a testament to the oversight of the University of Alaska Board of Regents, our dedicated staff, and the strength of our T. Rowe Price's investment knowledge.
Here’s to the next 25 years of supporting the next generation of learners!
