We’re proud to share that our President and CEO, Maria Bourne, has been named a 2024-25 Alumni of Distinction by the University of Alaska Anchorage. The award honors UAA graduates who demonstrate exceptional leadership, service, and impact—and Maria’s story is a powerful example of what’s possible with resilience, vision, and community at heart.
Maria’s journey began far from Alaska, in the Russian Far East, where she was raised in a family of accountants. At 17, she moved to Anchorage to pursue her education at UAA, overcoming language barriers and cultural differences with determination and hard work. After earning her accounting degree, she launched her career at KPMG, where she quickly became known for her ability to lead teams and navigate complex industries—skills that would later serve her well at DUS.
Maria joined DUS in 2015 as Chief Financial Officer and has been essential to our company’s growth ever since. She became CEO in 2021, guiding our team through a period marked by uncertainty, operational challenges, and change. In 2023, Maria led the transition to private ownership, helping secure our future as a woman-owned Alaska business. Through it all, she’s remained focused on what matters most: our people, mission, and ability to serve clients with integrity and excellence.
Today, DUS operates across six states with a growing team of over 1,100 employees, and Maria’s leadership continues to shape our path forward. Her recognition as a UAA Alumni of Distinction reflects not only her achievements but also our shared commitment to opportunity, growth, and community. We’re honored to call her our CEO and proud to celebrate this well-earned recognition with her. Read more here.