t the 2022 Alaska Business Hall of Fame, Junior Achievement of Alaska’s staff and board will pay tribute to what has become a signature element of the event—the passing of the baton by its beloved master of ceremonies, Retired US Army Major General Mark R. Hamilton. After a decade in the role, Hamilton is letting someone else take the mic.
Being the emcee at an event featuring Alaska’s most powerful business leaders is not without its challenges. After years of budget cuts, staff reductions, and turnover, the event lacked structure. “When you have a lot of speakers and transitions, the emcee has to facilitate that process so that the program continues to flow. And of course you have technology problems, typos in the script, lighting problems, and things like that,” says Flora Teo, president of Junior Achievement of Alaska. “And Mark always handled everything beautifully.”

Hamilton is the recipient of the Distinguished Service Medal and the Joint Distinguished Service Medal. ABC news anchor Peter Jennings featured Hamilton as “Person of the Week,” highlighting his 1993 negotiation with Somali warlords.
“When Mark stepped into this role as emcee, we [the staff] had no idea what to expect,” Teo says with a laugh. “Mark was very patient and methodical in his methods of running of this event, and we owe him a great deal of gratitude for his patience, professionalism, and unmatched focus.”
As emcee of the Alaska Business Hall of Fame, Hamilton says, “[My favorite] memories center around the youngsters who presented the Laureates. [They were] confident, articulate, and related understanding of what their honoree had accomplished. I loved to hear them say ‘my laureate.’”
While no two events or emcees are ever alike, Hamilton shared some reflective thoughts for those considering stepping into such a role. “The Laureates will weave together the lesson of the evening,” he says. “I think you will be surprised how often the message is love, certainly deep affection for family, business partners, employees, and even long-time customers. It is a beautiful orchestra every time, just listen. It is joyful.”