Rooted in Culture.
Growing for the Future.
Who we are
At Grounded Growth, we are more than a consulting firm; we are a family dedicated to the values of education, hard work, and community as pathways to sustainable growth and lasting impact. We infuse these principles into every project, ensuring our work not only meets but exceeds the expectations of those we serve, honoring our heritage and contributing to a prosperous future for all.
Meet the team.
Kay Ayangussaar Larson-Blair
Founder and CEO of Grounded Growth LLC.
Raised in the diverse landscapes of rural Alaska and Oklahoma, Kay Ayangussaar Larson-Blair brings a unique blend of cultural heritage and professional expertise to her role as Founder and CEO of Grounded Growth LLC. Kay is proud of her mixed heritage - Yup’ik, Unangan, Cherokee, and European. Kay's approach to leadership is deeply informed by her commitment to bridging traditional knowledge systems with Western frameworks.
Kay holds a Bachelor of Science in Biological Sciences with a focus on Indigenous science, fisheries, marine biology, and qualitative and quantitative analysis. She has over two decades of experience in various leadership roles, specializing in traditional science, fisheries management, anthropology, and cultural heritage programming. Her career highlights include serving as the Cultural Heritage Program Director at the Bristol Bay Foundation, where she was instrumental in growing the program by 3,000% in just five years through multi-million-dollar grant funding, partnership development, and program implementation. Her career achievements underscore her proficiency in navigating complex regulatory environments, building alliances, and aligning resources with community priorities.
Kay Lives in Anchorage where she has raised her two daughters. She enjoys practicing subsistence, learning about her culture and the history around her people, gardening, and spending quality time with family and friends.
Samantha Larson-Blair
Accounting and Payroll Specialist for Grounded Growth LLC.
Samantha plays a crucial role in supporting the financial health of our organization. Her meticulous attention to detail and strategic approach ensure accuracy and transparency in all financial activities, which are vital to our success.
She holds a Bachelor of Arts in History with a minor in Mathematics from the University of Alaska Anchorage, where she honed her problem-solving skills. Samantha also gained significant experience in customer service and business operations through roles in retail management. Committed to helping others, she furthered her education by earning a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Nightingale College in Utah.
Today, Samantha lives in Anchorage, Alaska with her husband, two children, and their two dogs. As a proud member of the Curyung Tribe, she dedicates her free time to solving puzzles, playing games with family, and cooking. Samantha’s diverse expertise and deep commitment to her heritage and family values resonate through her work at Grounded Growth, enhancing our collective mission to support sustainable community growth.
Billie Larson
Grant Writer and consultant for Grounded Growth LLC.
Billie’s extensive educational background, coupled with her rich professional and volunteer experiences, make her an invaluable asset to Grounded Growth LLC. Her work not only supports our mission but also embodies our values of education, community engagement, and sustainable growth.
Born in Oklahoma and relocated to Alaska during her youth, Billie has deep roots in both states. She holds a Bachelor of Elementary Education with specialties in English and Psychology, and a Master of Science in Counseling Psychology.
Billie’s career spans work with Alaska Native Regional Nonprofits, focusing on Vocational Rehabilitation and grant writing. Her profound impact was also felt during her years in education, where she retired after teaching K-6 and counseling K-12 students in rural Alaska. Her commitment to community service is highlighted by her 15 years as a volunteer EMT with Dillingham Volunteer Fire and Rescue.
Now retired in Anchorage, Billie enjoys spending time with her husband, daughters and grandkids. Billie's hobbies include crocheting, sewing, reading, and game nights with family and friends.
Our Values.
“We are committed to Cultural Integrity, Sustainability, Strategic Foresight, and Collaboration, ensuring every solution respects and integrates the rich cultural traditions of the communities we serve.”